Despite the presence of a very small Zionist counter demonstration, and some initial attempts by police to move the demonstration across the road away from the shop”s entrance, a noisy presence was maintained for several hours drawing the attention of bemused passers-by and tourists.
The demonstration was very well received by members of the public who took leaflets, expressed solidarity and honked car horns. The crowning moment, though, was when the shop admitted defeat and closed early.
This victory bodes well for the growing grassroots Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign against Israel, which has helped promote greater links and cooperation between the various Palestine solidarity groups in London.
On its website Ahava claims that “True to our philosophy of protecting the innate beauty and resources of the region, we have cultivated a passionate and caring relationship with the Dead Sea”.
It is less forthcoming about the fact that it sells beauty products from illegal settlements in the West Bank. This is why it is the target of a massive boycott campaign by different solidarity groups.
The next demonstration will take place on Saturday the 27th of March, and every fortnight thereafter.
For more details on why you should boycott Ahava specifically, please read CODEPINK”s “Ahava: Stolen Beauty” website.
