July 31, 2025


Alan Dershowitz Embroiled in Pierogi Stand Controversy on Martha’s Vineyard

Alan Dershowitz, the renowned lawyer whose political affiliations have stirred up local tensions, is once again at the center of controversy on Martha’s Vineyard. This summer, his grievances have taken a rather peculiar turn as he threatens to sue a local pierogi vendor for allegedly refusing him service due to his political views.

Dershowitz recounted the vendor’s words, stating, “I won’t sell them to you because I don’t approve of your politics… I don’t approve of who you’ve represented. I don’t approve of who you support.” The lawyer believes the refusal is directly tied to his political alignments and legal representations, including his controversial defense statements regarding Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein.

The situation escalated when Dershowitz took to social media, declaring the vendor’s actions as bigotry. He announced plans to sue, while also seeking to petition the Martha's Vineyard Farmer's Market to ensure no vendor discriminates against customers based on politics. His tweet drew significant attention, underscoring his commitment to challenge what he perceives as unfair treatment.

However, legal experts point out that political views are not protected under the same laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, religion, or sexual orientation. This means that the vendor may have the right to refuse service based on personal political stances.

The incident has sparked a broader debate about the intersection of business practices and political beliefs, with Dershowitz at the forefront, advocating for what he believes is a fight against discrimination. Yet, this is not the first time he has felt ostracized by the community; his political views have previously led to social exclusions and public disputes on the island.

Adding to the drama, local police were called during the confrontation, siding with the vendor. This has only fueled Dershowitz’s resolve as he expressed hopes for a resolution without litigation, stating, “I just want to shop freely at the farmer's market without politics interfering. But I can’t let discrimination persist in my own vacation town.”

Critics suggest that Dershowitz might consider finding a less contentious vacation spot, hinting that Martha’s Vineyard might no longer welcome him with open arms given his polarizing persona. This ongoing saga between a lawyer and a pierogi stand continues to stir discussions on freedom, discrimination, and the right to service in a politically divided climate.

The case, however peculiar, underscores the increasingly fraught nature of public and private life intersections, especially for public figures with controversial political ties. Whether this will lead to any legal changes or just more heated debates at the farmer's market remains to be seen.