Next week, Israeli singer Achinoam Nini touches down in Australia. Some people in the Jewish community don’t want her to perform here. They’re angry she encourages dialogue with Palestinians, works to realise the two-state solution, and supports social justice and human rights groups, including NIF.

For them, supporting this work is disloyal to Israel. They are urging people to boycott her performances

But we know better. We know that this work highlights the best side of Israel.

We know how harmful the BDS movement is because it shuts out the voices most strongly promoting a peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

It takes a particular brand of hypocrisy for members of the Jewish community who oppose BDS to encourage the boycott of an Israeli artist.

We need to make sure they’re not successful in shutting out Achinoam.

We’re proud to partner with Temple Beth Israel to bring Achinoam to Australia, and we’re grateful that the Israeli Embassy have shown their support.

I hope you’ll take one of these actions to show yours:

1. Buy a ticket to one of Achinoam’s events:

• Concerts in Melbourne: Wednesday 15 November & Wednesday 16 November at Temple Beth Israel (use the code WEEKENDNOA for an 18% discount)
• Concert in Sydney: Monday 20 November at Camelot Lounge
• Conversation and performance in Sydney, hosted by NIF: Tuesday 21 November at Bondi Pavilion

2. Write a letter to the editor of the Jewish News: We should be encouraging Israeli artists to come to Australia, perform their music, and share their culture. We need to call out those who support the boycott of Israeli artists, whoever they are.

3. Share this with your friends on Facebook – Let’s get the word around that Israelis who are working for peace and social justice have our support.

I hope to see you at one of Achinoam’s events next week.