On November 22, a global Day of Action will take place as part of the Boycott Chevron initiative, driven largely by Palestinian activists seeking to draw attention to the oil giant’s role in Israel amidst ongoing human rights concerns and environmental issues.
Chevron plays a significant role in Israel’s energy landscape, supplying about 70% of the country’s energy needs. This involvement has been increasingly criticized, with activists arguing that the company’s operations support a system viewed by many as genocidal and apartheid-like, thereby infringing on Palestinian rights. Since Chevron entered the Israeli market in 2020, it has reportedly generated hundreds of millions of dollars for the Israeli government annually.
The grassroots Boycott Chevron campaign has garnered worldwide support, leading to various forms of activism including protests outside Chevron-affiliated gas stations, efforts to remove the company from event sponsorships, and divestment campaigns aimed at local governments and institutions. Some franchise owners of Chevron gas stations have joined the movement, advocating for the cessation of its operations in Israel. These collective efforts have led to tangible outcomes, with several cities opting to withdraw contracts with Chevron and various events severing ties with the company under community pressure.
The upcoming Day of Action is seen as crucial for amplifying this movement. Activists are urging participants to disrupt Chevron’s operations, asserting that any decline in the company’s profits or damage to its reputation could compel it to alter its business practices. Notably, participants are encouraged to engage in activities such as picketing or holding sit-ins at Chevron, Caltex, and Texaco locations, organizing educational events, and coordinating banner drops in prominent areas to raise awareness about Chevron’s impact.
Individuals and organizations looking to contribute to the Day of Action can find opportunities to participate or register their own events through a dedicated campaign map. To keep informed, the public is invited to follow the Boycott Chevron campaign on social media platforms for ongoing updates. The movement embodies a collective call for social and environmental accountability, emphasizing unity and awareness in advocating for justice and change.