Israel Prize Winner Urges Parties to Reserve Seats for Haredi Individuals
Menachem Kalmanzon, a recipient of the Israel Prize, is calling on Zionist political parties, particularly those on the right, to reserve spots on their electoral lists for Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) individuals who wish to serve, integrate, and take responsibility within Israeli society without compromising their identity or way of life. Kalmanzon acknowledges the historical frustration and distance between the political establishment and the Haredi public, noting that voices advocating for public and value-based partnership have often seemed like mere wishes.
He emphasizes that the Haredi community is not monolithic, containing diverse voices among its youth, rabbis, educators, and communities who think differently. Many are prepared to discuss service, integration, and shared responsibility while maintaining their Haredi identity. However, these individuals face significant challenges in gaining political expression, as opposing the central establishment can lead to severe repercussions within their communities, institutions, and public standing.
Kalmanzon's plea is for political parties to create a dedicated avenue for Haredi individuals seeking to be part of the solution. He specifically urges Zionist parties, especially right-wing ones, to reserve places for Haredi candidates who will remain true to their Haredi identity and bring a distinct perspective to the Knesset (parliament), rather than mimicking the national-religious public or abandoning their heritage. He points to rabbis, yeshiva deans, and community leaders ready for complex discourse, and Haredim seeking to serve, work, and integrate into Israeli society while adhering to their religious principles.
He encourages party leaders to actively seek out these potential candidates within Haredi hesder yeshivas (which combine religious study with military service), alternative Haredi communities and Hasidic groups, and emerging Haredi leadership bodies representing a broader, currently silenced segment of the population. Kalmanzon stresses the need to support those seeking change from within, rather than waiting for them to break through independently against strong political and communal systems. He argues that political representation is crucial to empower them against pressure and that providing a "seat at the table" is essential for driving real change.
