A recent meeting at the Park Slope Food Coop descended into controversy after a participant made offensive antisemitic remarks during a discussion about a proposed boycott of Israeli products.

The comments were delivered virtually by a member identified as Michael Huarachi, who made statements that drew strong reactions from those present. According to attendees, some individuals applauded the remarks, while others expressed shock and condemnation.

Longtime member Ramon Maislen described the moment as deeply troubling, stating that the reaction did not reflect the values of the community. He later addressed the crowd, criticizing the applause and calling the comments inappropriate.

The meeting had been organized to discuss whether to lower the voting threshold required to approve a boycott—from 75% to 51%—a change that could make it easier for supporters of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement to push through restrictions on Israeli goods.

During the discussion, the speaker made comparisons and remarks that many attendees described as offensive and unacceptable. The situation quickly spread across online platforms, where users criticized the statements and labeled them as antisemitic.

Another attendee, who asked to remain anonymous, expressed disappointment in how the meeting was handled, saying moderators failed to properly intervene during the incident.

Longtime coop member Barbara Mazor, who is running for a board position, said the ongoing debate over the boycott has increasingly turned meetings into political disputes. She emphasized concerns about rising tensions and the need to address discrimination within the community.

The controversy comes amid a broader divide within the coop, which has around 16,000 members who contribute work shifts in exchange for discounted groceries and participation in decision-making.

Previous complaints have also been raised regarding alleged harassment of Jewish members in connection with the boycott discussions. According to reports, incidents have included verbal confrontations and offensive remarks during past interactions.

The debate over Israeli products has been ongoing for years and continues to create friction within the cooperative. While some members support the boycott as a political stance, others argue it has shifted focus away from the coop’s original mission.

A group identified as PSFC Members for Palestine stated that the discussion reflects a range of perspectives within a diverse membership. They maintain that their position is based on calls for compliance with international law and changes in policies affecting Palestinians.

Despite differing views, some members have called for a return to a more neutral and community-focused environment, expressing concern that ongoing tensions are affecting the cooperative’s unity.