A planned book launch at Nashville bookstore Bell Bird Books has been cancelled following a week of intense social media pressure. The event was scheduled to feature Alyssa Rosenheck, the author of the new book White. Blonde. Jew. The book documents Rosenheck's experiences and perspectives regarding the Israel-Hamas war and her own Jewish identity. Public criticism of the event intensified after opponents characterized the book and the author as promoting Zionism, leading to calls for a boycott of the independent bookstore.
Owner Mary Ann Weprin initially defended the event on July 29, stating that the store aims to provide a space for open conversation and diverse perspectives. Weprin noted that hosting an author does not equate to an endorsement of their specific views. Despite this defense, the store removed the event from its website and social media channels within two days of the statement. Bell Bird Books has not provided further comment on the specific reasons for the reversal.
The Anti-Defamation League weighed in on the situation, condemning the backlash against Rosenheck. The organization argued that the campaign against the bookstore serves as an example of antisemitism appearing under the guise of anti-Zionist activism, claiming that activists are targeting Jewish authors to intimidate institutions that host them.
Rosenheck expressed disappointment regarding the cancellation, stating that the decision raises concerns about the state of free speech and the ability of authors to express unpopular views in the current climate. She maintains that her work is an effort to reject extremism and promote intellectual freedom. Rosenheck confirmed that ticket holders will receive refunds and that she intends to reschedule the launch at a different venue in the Nashville area.