Pierogi and Power: Dershowitz Unwelcome at Vineyard Market

A Controversial Encounter at the Farmers Market

Alan Dershowitz, a 86-year-old lawyer known for his defense of Donald Trump and strong advocacy for Israel, found himself in an unexpected situation while visiting the West Tisbury Farmers Market on Martha’s Vineyard. Instead of enjoying a simple meal of pierogis, he was met with public shaming and booing.

Dershowitz claims that he was denied service by a pierogi vendor during two consecutive visits to the market. The incident sparked a significant reaction from the community, leading to a protest at the Good Pierogi booth on Wednesday, August 6.

A History of Visits and a New Conflict

Dershowitz has been coming to Martha’s Vineyard since 1969, often attending the farmers market every Wednesday. His recent visit, however, took an unexpected turn. On Wednesday, July 30, after ordering corn and orange juice, he asked for six pierogis — a dish that reminded him of his grandmother's cooking.

The vendor, however, refused to serve him, stating, "No, we have plenty — I just won’t sell to you." Dershowitz noted that this decision might have been influenced by the red, white, and blue "Proud American Zionist" shirt he wore, which he believes the vendor recognized.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

According to Massachusetts law, businesses are prohibited from refusing service based on race or other protected classes. However, political beliefs are not included under these protections.

Good Pierogi owner Krem Miskevich later issued a statement explaining that their decision was partly based on Dershowitz’s past legal defense of Jeffrey Epstein. Miskevich expressed emotional distress over the situation, claiming it had affected not only his business but also other vendors.

A Public Protest and Community Reaction

On August 6, Dershowitz returned to the Good Pierogi booth in an attempt to purchase the pierogis. This time, protestors had gathered around the tent, anticipating the encounter. As Dershowitz approached the booth, he was again denied service, and the crowd chanted, "Time to go!"

Musician and comic Ami Kozak, who was performing at the island’s Jewish Culture Festival, witnessed the event. He described Dershowitz’s attempt as a gesture of peace and shared live footage on Instagram. Kozak criticized the vendor's actions, suggesting that the situation could have been avoided if they simply sold Dershowitz a pierogi.

Divided Opinions and Ongoing Debate

Reactions to the incident were mixed. Some praised Good Pierogi for standing by their ethics, while others criticized the vendor's actions as inappropriate. Kozak remarked on social media that the situation highlighted ongoing issues with "woke" culture on the island.

Neither Dershowitz nor Miskevich has publicly commented on the events of August 6, leaving the situation open to interpretation and continued discussion within the community.

The Broader Implications

This incident raises important questions about the intersection of personal beliefs, public behavior, and the role of businesses in society. It also underscores the challenges of navigating political and ethical differences in a public setting.

As the debate continues, the story serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in balancing individual rights, community values, and the expectations of public spaces.