One of the newest and fastest-growing campaigns within the BDS movement is "Block the Boat," a campaign targeting the ports across the United States where the Israeli-owned shipping line, ZIM Integrated Shipping Services, docks to unload its goods. As the new EPF Palestine Israel Network LA chapter in Southern California launches, some of its members are participating in Block the Boat-Los Angeles (BtB-LA), holding protests and informational outreach at the Long Beach/Los Angeles port. At the third largest port in the nation, BtB-LA is raising awareness of the Israeli occupation of Palestine among the public and the dockworkers as well.

Block the Boat actions have successfully delayed the off-loading of ZIM ships which can cost thousands of dollars. ZIM began as Israel's merchant fleet and played an historic role in the colonization of Palestine. It is now the largest private holding company in Israel, connecting Israel and its products--including military and paramilitary hardware--to the world.

BtB-LA works in coordination with similar groups in Vancouver, Seattle/Tacoma, Oakland, Tampa, and New York/New Jersey, sharing ideas and information to enhance one another's work.

Why does Block the Boat deserve our support? Vicki Tamoush, a member of PIN-LA and BtB-LA, explains her involvement: "If we are called to seek justice and love kindness, we are called to dismantle the apartheid system in Israel. BDS has been an effective force for change in similar situations from the grape fields of California to the bantustans of South Africa. The Gospel as I read it is quite radical. As Christians and as Episcopalians, we are called to stand for justice for every child of God. In this case, that means educating dockworkers about why they may want to refuse to unload ZIM ships. It also means educating the public about the role that ZIM ships play in supporting the illegal and immoral occupation of Palestine."

The role of clergy in these protests has been key. The presence of priests and deacons at Block the Boat protests is significant to the dockworkers and public alike. BtB-LA has enjoyed the participation of clergy since the inception of the campaign. There is a role for parishes as well: consider supporting Block the Boat through Prayers of the People or by encouraging members to call or write ZIM about their role in supporting the occupation.

If you would like to find out how you or your EPF chapter can support Block the Boat campaigns in your area, contact Vicki Tamoush at VTamoush@gmail.com or (714) 362-7676.