Alan Dershowitz Faces Culinary Backlash Over Political Views
Harvard Professor Alan Dershowitz seems to be caught in a strange remake of a “Seinfeld” episode involving soup. The culinary scene at Martha’s Vineyard has become a battleground, as Chef Krem Miskevich has barred Dershowitz from purchasing pierogis due to his political opinions. Perhaps it’s a case of what some are calling “Pierogi Politics,” reflecting the bitter divisions currently fracturing society.
Dershowitz has shared that a once-friendly liberal neighbor has now blacklisted him, mainly because of his involvement in defending former President Donald Trump. His exclusion from the elite social circles has left him feeling like a pariah.
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The atmosphere of exclusion now extends beyond social interactions and into food. Dershowitz routinely visits the West Tisbury Farmers Market and frequently buys from Good Pierogi. But now, Miskevich has joined the fray, refusing to serve him.
Miskevich, who uses they/them pronouns, has accused Dershowitz of being misgendered in past remarks. Nevertheless, Miskevich openly admits that his decision to blacklist the professor stems from his political and legal stance.
Dershowitz is currently pursuing legal action against the market and expressed, “I wasn’t served because he disagreed with my political views.” He suspects the initial snub could have been influenced by his pro-Jewish attire. In a previous encounter, he reminded Miskevich that Massachusetts law prohibits denying services based on race, religion, or sexual orientation.
In response to the situation, Miskevich has shared their emotions about serving Dershowitz, voicing that they felt a surge when he approached. “As a chef, I love sharing my food with everyone,” they clarified, yet stated that Dershowitz’s notoriety as a lawyer for high-profile abusers, including Jeffrey Epstein, played a significant role in their refusal.
Dershowitz insists the treatment he has faced is outrageous, saying that such enmity is celebrated among certain political audiences. The situation connects back to historical themes of blacklisting, reminiscent of the McCarthy era.
The current trend has raised concerns among attorneys categorized based on the clients they represent. Previously, liberal attorneys faced similar backlash for defending unpopular figures. This isn’t just an isolated issue; it’s part of a broader pattern where legal professionals have become targets based on their affiliations.
Interestingly, there is irony in the selective outrage against certain denials of service. Miskevich’s refusal mirrors cases like the Colorado baker, who stood firm in refusing to create a cake that he felt would violate his principles. In this case, however, the refusal of service lies in culinary choices rather than explicit artistic expression.
The refusal to serve pre-made pierogis appears problematic—even if it’s not outright illegal. If Dershowitz were to request a celebratory pierogi party for Trump, I’d support Miskevich’s right to decline based on free speech. Still, this situation highlights a troubling precedent for service denial based on differing views.
Miskevich may find temporary popularity by catering to anger against opposing beliefs, but it raises the question: does feeding hate truly bring happiness? History has shown that such resentment only breeds further discontent, and slowly, it could poison community ties—one pierogi at a time.
