Leviev's New York Opening Gala Surprise Protest

Press Release

Glitterati at Leviev’s New York Gala Stunned by Encounter with Palestinian Rights Protest, 11/13/2007

Glitterati at Leviev’s New York Gala Stunned by Encounter with Palestinian Rights Protest

 

Adalah-NY: The Coalition for Justice in the Middle East

Over 100 well-dressed, well-heeled New Yorkers attending the invitation-only opening of diamond mogul Lev Leviev's Madison Avenue jewelry store this evening appeared stunned and aghast to find their evening derailed by a noisy protest against Leviev's construction of illegal West Bank settlements. Gala attendees set down their champagne glasses and gathered by windows to view the signs and Palestinian flags, and hear protesters' chants.

30 New York City human rights activists chanted, "You're glitz, you're glam, you're stealing Palestinian land", and "All your diamonds cannot hide, your support for Apartheid." Protesters called on New York City's upscale residents to boycott Leviev's diamonds. Disconcerted attendees hastily exited to their limousines to loud chants of, "Occupation is a drag, just say no to your gift bag."

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Press Coverage

The Forward

Diamond Billionaire Takes New York

Abstract: 

Lev Leviev's rise has not been without controversy. Leviev has been accused of profiting from diamond mines in apartheid-era South Africa, Angola and Burma. His closeness to Russian President Vladimir Putin has also raised some eyebrows. This came to the fore at the store opening, when a group of protesters from Adalah-NY showed up behind the velvet rope that barred the entrance to the store.

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This was an unannounced event.

Event Location: 

Leviev NYC
700 Madison Ave. Between 62nd and 63rd Sts
New York , NY

Event Date: 

Tuesday, November 13, 2007 - 7:00pm to 9:00pm

Our Work Sections: 

Content Type: 

Public Event

Shortlink: 

https://j.mp/3B7buHq