Festive decor in Neiman Marcus Court. Photo courtesy of NorthPark Center.

During the rush of Black Friday shopping on Nov. 24, two Pro-Palestinian groups led protests at NorthPark Center. 

Around 9 a.m., videos were shared online of protesters laying on the ground near the Santa Claus’ cottage pop-up while group leaders held a banner with the message “Stop U.S. Funding of Israeli Apartheid.” The protest was led by A.N.S.W.E.R. (Act Now to Stop War and End Racism) Coalition, a United States-based protest umbrella group consisting of many antiwar and civil rights organizations. The group led protesters in chanting “Free, free Palestine.” Videos capture mall security standing between shoppers and protesters. 

In anticipation for Black Friday, the group called for a gathering of people to boycott, disrupt and rally at commercial centers to raise awareness for the conflict and promote a call for a ceasefire. While some comments on social media have suggested that Dallas PD escorted the protesters out, a representative of DPD confirmed that the protesters were escorted out by mall security “with no issues.”

“NorthPark Center, including its buildings, gardens, parking garages and parking lots, is private property,” the shopping center’s code of conduct states. “For the safety and enjoyment of all guests, NorthPark Center kindly requests cooperation and courtesy by following the directions of NorthPark Center management and security personnel at all times and by… not staging any form of public event or protest, soliciting, or distributing information of any kind without the prior approval of NorthPark Center management or security personnel.”

According to WFAA, dozens of protesters were seen on the Interstate 75 and NorthPark Blvd. overpass later that day with microphones and signs calling for boycotts of products, companies and government officials who have expressed support for Israel.

These protests are two of many boycotts and demonstrations that A.N.S.W.E.R, Palestinian Youth Movement and other groups have staged on Black Friday across the country. 

NorthPark Center and A.N.S.W.E.R. have not responded to a request for comment at this time. This is a developing story and will be updated when more information becomes available.