American Rock Trio Known for LGBT Activism Performs in Israel, Blasts BDS as Ignorant, Antisemitic
by Shiryn Ghermezian
A member of an all-female alternative rock band from New York City bashed the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement after her group performed its first concert in the Jewish state.
BETTY cellist and vocalist Amy Ziff told the organization Creative Community for Peace (CCFP), “People that wish to impose cultural boycotts on Israel are either misinformed about the country, or antisemites disguising themselves under a mask of anti-Zionism.” She said that the band– well-known for its off-Broadway show “BETTY Rules” and for producing the theme song to the hit Showtime series “The L Word” — uses its music “to strive for a better world through political and social activism.” Artists, she said, have “the responsibility to help society in a myriad of ways.” One of the ways that BETTY does this is by advocating on behalf of the LBGT community.
After longing to perform in Israel, Ziff said, the band held two concerts there in late November and early December — and plans to return for another performance next October.
Ziff said she was excited about “making a connection with people… in Israel,” with whom she hopes her group’s music resonated.
Though many artists are harassed into canceling Israel tours by BDS activists — most notable among them Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters — several reject the pressure and proudly perform in the Jewish state.