Presenters: Mohammed Mayaleh and Angel Dobrow

In 2017 Minnesota joined 36 other states by introducing into law measures that require businesses and individuals who want to obtain a contract over $50,000 with the state of Minnesota to certify they are not and will not boycott the state of Israel. These anti-boycott laws directly violate our constitutionally protected right to free speech.  These laws were formulated by ALEC (American Legislative Exchange Council), which crafts legislation to implement conservative and repressive goals. These anti-boycott bills have been used as a model to undermine boycotts of fossil fuel, gun manufacturers and more – with just a few minor wording changes. Years of organizing have brought the repeal effort within reach. The MN BDS Community is initiating efforts to establish a citizen-driven campaign aimed at encouraging Minnesotans to advocate for their right to free speech.  Repealing these bills is part of how we fight back!

About the presenters:

Mohammed Mayaleh is a Palestinian-American attorney and activist in the Twin Cities. He has lived in East Jerusalem and the West Bank. Mohammed still has a large number of relatives and friends living in Palestine and visits regularly. His last visit to Palestine was in September of 2024.  Mohammed has a BA in Political Science and Philosophy from MSU, Mankato, and a JD and MBA from the University of St. Thomas.

Angel Dobrow joined the MN BDS Community in early 2024 to engage with state-wide campaigns to end the Israeli occupation of Palestine. She is a key organizer with the Duluth-based Palestine Solidarity Working Group, and an active member of the Twin Ports DSA chapter.