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Explainer: Why Geico dropped pro-Palestine activist Linda Sarsour as 'diversity speaker'

Linda Sarsour’s harsh criticisms of Israel have been deemed anti-Semitic by numerous Jewish organizations in the United States, though she denies holding hateful views and has significant support among some progressives.

Linda Sarsour
Activist Linda Sarsour speaks at a peace vigil to honor victims of attacks on Asians on March 19, 2021 in Union Square Park in New York City. — Stephanie Keith/Getty Images

The American insurance giant Geico sent out an email on April 5 inviting employees to a discussion with American activist Linda Sarsour, who is known for her support of the Palestinian cause. The invitation was part of Geico’s “diversity and inclusion” efforts and aimed to celebrate Middle East and North African heritage month in April. 

Today, Geico rescinded Sarsour’s invitation along with an apology. 

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