VBSR Supports the Right of a Business to Operate Consistent with its Values

Burlington, VT – Recently, Ben & Jerry’s Homemade, Inc. has been made the target of threats in response to their decision to cease ice cream sales in the occupied Palestinian territories.

VBSR supports the right of a business to operate consistent with its values. We also support courageous decisions by our member businesses that advance social justice and uphold human rights. We believe the choices Ben & Jerry’s has made are consistent with this position.

When VBSR was founded in 1990, it was on the premise that businesses can serve as powerful change agents, including through political activism. Today, our 650 member businesses stand together to leverage the power of business for positive social and environmental impact and work collectively toward a just, thriving, and transformative economy that works for all people and the planet.

When differences arise in this work, we support respectful dialogue between differing parties and do not support the use of threats and fearmongering. Difference must be approached with decency.

VBSR is a statewide, non-profit business association with a mission to leverage the power of business for positive social and environmental impact. VBSR’s 650 member businesses and organizations strive toward a just, thriving, and transformative economy that works for all people and the planet through shared learning, building connections, and collective action. Learn more or join the cause at www.vbsr.org.