**Ben & Jerry’s Founder Arrested at Senate Gaza Protest**
Jerry Greenfield, one of the co-founders of the popular ice cream company Ben & Jerry’s, was taken into custody by police while protesting outside the US Senate building. The incident occurred as part of a demonstration against Israel’s actions in Gaza.
The arrest took place after a long-standing dispute between Ben & Jerry’s and Unilever, the company that owns Ben & Jerry’s, came to a head. In 2021, Ben & Jerry’s announced its decision to stop selling ice cream in Israeli-occupied territories, citing concerns about human rights abuses against Palestinians.
**A Divided Company**
This move sparked a heated debate within Ben & Jerry’s, with some employees and shareholders disagreeing with the company’s stance on Israel. The disagreement led to a rift between those who supported the decision and others who felt it was not the right time or place for such an action.
As tensions escalated in the last year, Greenfield became increasingly vocal about his support for Palestinian rights. This has put him at odds with Unilever, which has maintained that Ben & Jerry’s should remain neutral on issues of politics and social justice.
**A Complicated Legacy**
The arrest of Jerry Greenfield serves as a reminder of the complex legacy of Ben & Jerry’s. As a company known for its progressive values and commitment to social justice, the ice cream maker has long been a source of inspiration for many activists and advocates. However, the current situation also highlights the challenges that can arise when corporate interests collide with personal convictions.
In this case, Greenfield’s actions have led to a public showdown between him and Unilever, raising questions about the limits of free speech and the responsibilities of business leaders in times of crisis.
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