Goodbye BDS; Hello BRA
The Power of BRA (Buy, Recognize, and Aspire) and Positive Economic Engagement
The Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, which originated in 2005, seeks to exert economic and political pressure on Israel to address perceived injustices related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It has caused nothing but harm and divisiveness as Israel has gained financial strength while Palestinians have languished in poverty while their main export is terror. In response, I propose an alternative solution focusing on constructive economic engagement.
We call this movement BRA: Buy, Recognize, and Aspire
Rather than engaging in boycotts and divestments, an alternative approach is to focus on positive economic engagement. By supporting products and businesses that share our values and promote positive change in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, we can make a more meaningful impact.
- Buy: Support businesses actively engaged in Israel’s commitment to enduring peace and economic development. Israeli businesses often employ Palestinians and Israelis, fostering valuable connections and partnerships.
- Recognize: Encourage on social media and take actions that promote organizations and initiatives that bring Israelis and Palestinians together in harmony and not divided. Especially those that help fight the leading funder of terrorism, Iran.
- Aspire: Implement and endorse programs such as tourism and educational initiatives can create bridges of understanding.
The BDS movement causes unintended harm. Instead of participating in boycotts and divestments, individuals and organizations can make a positive difference by embracing economic engagement and supporting businesses and initiatives that foster collaboration, dialogue, and peace.
The BRA movement encourages support for Israeli enterprises that can contribute to a more constructive approach to the complex issues of the Middle East.
