NASHVILLE, Tenn. (VINnews) — A Nashville bookstore has canceled a planned book launch for Jewish author and photographer Alyssa Rosenheck after facing criticism online from anti-Zionist activists, prompting a debate over free speech, antisemitism and public pressure on independent businesses.

Rosenheck, whose book White. Blonde. Jew is scheduled for release later this month, said the bookstore informed her it would no longer host the event after receiving backlash on social media. The launch had been scheduled for Aug. 20.

In a statement posted online, Rosenheck said she was disappointed by the decision, arguing that Jewish authors should be free to discuss controversial topics without fear of being silenced. She said the incident raises broader questions about free expression and whether authors can openly share viewpoints that some find unpopular.

The book explores antisemitism, Jewish identity and Rosenheck’s experiences visiting Israel and communities affected by Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023, attack. It also includes conversations with survivors, former hostages, families of victims and Israeli public figures.

Following the cancellation, Rosenheck said she plans to announce a new Nashville venue for the event. She said ticket holders for the original program will receive refunds.

Bell Bird Books owner Mary Ann Weprin later addressed the controversy in a public statement, saying the decision was driven by safety concerns rather than opposition to Rosenheck or her views. Weprin said the bookstore, a small neighborhood business, was not equipped to handle an event that appeared likely to require increased security.

Weprin rejected accusations of antisemitism, saying hatred toward Jews has no place in society. She added that the bookstore intends to carry Rosenheck’s book because readers should be free to decide for themselves.

The cancellation drew criticism from several supporters of Rosenheck, including actress Patricia Heaton, who accused the bookstore of yielding to pressure from online activists.

The Anti-Defamation League also criticized the cancellation, arguing that campaigns targeting Jewish authors over their views on Zionism risk marginalizing Jewish voices in the public square.

The dispute is the latest example of growing tensions surrounding discussions of Israel, Zionism and antisemitism in cultural and literary spaces since the start of the Israel-Hamas war.