Pierogi and Power: Dershowitz Shunned at Vineyard Market

A Controversial Encounter at the Farmers Market

Alan Dershowitz, a well-known 86-year-old lawyer and Harvard professor, found himself in an unexpected situation while visiting the West Tisbury Farmers Market on Martha’s Vineyard. His visit, which he had planned as a routine trip to enjoy some pierogis, turned into a public spectacle that sparked debate across the community.

Dershowitz, who has long been associated with defending high-profile clients and advocating for Israel, claims he was denied service by a local pierogi vendor. This incident occurred over two consecutive weeks, leading to further escalation when he returned to the market again. On both occasions, he was refused service, and on the second visit, he was met with a crowd of protestors who booed him and chanted for him to leave.

The Initial Incident

The story began a week before the public confrontation. Dershowitz recounted that on Wednesday, July 30, he walked up to the pierogi stand after ordering corn and orange juice. He requested six pierogis, which he described as reminiscent of his grandmother’s cooking. Instead of receiving the order, the vendor looked him directly in the eye and said no. When Dershowitz asked if they had run out, the vendor responded that they had plenty but would not sell to him.

Dershowitz later recalled wearing a “Proud American Zionist” shirt, which he believes may have led the vendor to recognize him. He suggested that the refusal was based on his political views, particularly his support for Israel and his past legal defense of Donald Trump.

Legal Considerations and Vendor Response

According to Massachusetts law, businesses are prohibited from refusing service based on race or other protected classes. However, political beliefs are not included in these protections. In response to the incident, Good Pierogi owner Krem Miskevich issued a statement explaining that their decision was "legally justified." He cited Dershowitz’s past representation of Jeffrey Epstein as a key factor in their refusal to serve him.

Miskevich expressed regret over the backlash, stating that the decision affected not only his business but also other vendors at the market. He emphasized that he did not intend to cause any harm to the community he deeply cares about.

The Second Visit and Public Reaction

On Wednesday, August 6, Dershowitz returned to the Good Pierogi booth in an attempt to purchase pierogis. This time, protestors had gathered around the tent, aware of the previous encounter. As Dershowitz approached the vendor, he was once again denied service. The crowd, instead of supporting him, cheered the vendor’s decision and chanted, “Time to go!”

Ami Kozak, a musician and comic who was performing at the island’s Jewish Culture Festival, witnessed the event. He described Dershowitz’s attempt to buy pierogis as a gesture of peace. Kozak shared live footage of the scene on Instagram, expressing frustration that the situation could have been avoided if the vendor simply sold Dershowitz the food.

Kozak noted that the crowd’s reaction was supportive of the vendor, with many applauding the refusal to serve Dershowitz. He criticized the behavior, suggesting that it was misguided and unnecessary.

Public Division and Ongoing Debate

The incident sparked a wide range of reactions online. Some praised Good Pierogi for standing by their ethics, while others criticized the vendor's actions as inappropriate. The debate highlighted the complexities of personal beliefs, public behavior, and the role of businesses in social issues.

Neither Dershowitz nor Miskevich has issued a public statement regarding the events of August 6, leaving the situation open to interpretation and continued discussion within the community.

This incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between personal convictions and public conduct, especially in a setting like a farmers market where community interactions are frequent and visible.