I understand opposition to the Israeli government’s activities in the West Bank and Gaza. Obviously that government should be targeted by BDS. Businesses also seem fair game. But what about individuals? For example, if an artist posts periodically online, should they also be subject to boycott?
Oh look, I would consider nothing in this comment antisemitism. That’s valid criticism of what Israel currently does. A tad ignorant of the use of civilians as shields by the Hamas in this very unequal war, but it allows for a normal discussion.
I think it’s valid to casually use a state’s name as an actor instead of always pointing out its the government. Not always applicable without differentiating too little, but valid in principle.
But that’s different from making each Israeli responsible, or calling for the abolishment of the state, both of which we see quite often on Lemmy these days (and before)
Totally agree. I’m British, so bearing responsibility for all the horrific and stupid shit the people in charge of the place I was born have done is especially unappealing. Abolishing Israel isn’t the answer, nor is blaming powerless Israeli citizens. Even worse is attacking the Jewish diaspora around the world as if they have anything to do with it, that’s clear and unambiguous racism.
Similar is the disgust for China/the CCP.
Fuck the CCP --> valid criticism
Fuck China --> ambiguous, could be either
Fuck the Chinese --> outright racism
The problem is the racist can hide behind the likes of the middle statement, using it as a dog whistle, and it can seem like it has huge support, even though most of the people agreeing think they are agreeing with the top statement.