Boycott Victory: Oxfam Drops Scarlett Johansson as Global Ambassador Over SodaStream Ties

Following in the tradition of 18th century Rabbi Levi Yitzhak of Berdichev, who said, “This matzah is treif [not Kosher]. It is not kosher because it was produced through oshek, oppression of the workers and exploitation.”

Jewish Voice for Peace

(OAKLAND) - In the last week, we’ve seen unprecedented media attention on SodaStream, the company that produces water carbonating devices in an Israeli settlement in the West Bank. The New York Times, the LA Times, the Financial Times, Time Magazine, The Guardian, ABC News, Vogue, and Entertainment Weekly are a few of the media outlets making mention of the fact that Israeli settlements are illegal under international law.

All of this coverage has been prompted by Oxfam’s Ambassador Scarlett Johansson’s agreement to endorse SodaStream and film an ad to be aired during the SuperBowl this Sunday.

Until today, Johansson also served as a global ambassador for the humanitarian organization Oxfam.  But thanks to pressure from all of you, Oxfam stuck to their policy of opposing Israeli settlements, and Johansson stepped down, choosing profit from occupation over humanitarianism.

As JVP Executive Director said in her statement today, "That the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement was able to force this decision in a matter of weeks is proof of the growing power of BDS worldwide."

It is time to seize on this national spotlight and elevate the boycott against SodaStream: To celebrate this landmark victory, we've launched a brand-new SodaStream campaign page on our website, showcasing the work of JVP chapters who have joined in the effort, including details on how to get involved. Be sure to check the page regularly as we add new resources to help you in your own local campaign!

Following in the tradition of 18th century Rabbi Levi Yitzhak of Berdichev, who said, “This matzah is treif [not Kosher]. It is not kosher because it was produced through oshek, oppression of the workers and exploitation.”

Thanks!

Sydney Levy

Jewish Voice for Peace