New Haredi Party Challenges Norms by Including Women and Addressing Societal Issues
Translated & summarized from i24NEWS by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- New Haredi party includes women and discusses conscription and livelihoods.
- Dr. Nechumi Yaffe leads the party, aiming to address poverty and education.
- The party seeks to attract voters disillusioned with traditional Haredi leadership.
- Support comes from unexpected Haredi factions, but official endorsements are absent.
- The party's success may be measured by discourse, not just election results.
A new Haredi political party, "The Haredi Public," is attempting to break ground in Israeli politics by including women on its slate and engaging in discussions about military conscription and livelihoods. The party aims to attract voters disillusioned with traditional Haredi leadership.
Party representatives have declared their intention to run in the upcoming elections, emphasizing that crossing the electoral threshold is not their primary concern. They believe their vote is a significant statement against existing political paths, expressing confidence in their potential to be a "surprise of the elections."
Dr. Nechumi Yaffe, a researcher at Tel Aviv University who previously held a significant position at Harvard University, has joined the party's forefront. Yaffe stated her motivation was to address contemporary issues such as poverty, education, employment, and conscription, asserting that Haredim are integral to Israel's existence and well-being. She acknowledges facing personal and professional backlash for her political alignment, particularly from academia and within her community.
Despite historical affiliations, the party is reportedly receiving support from unexpected quarters, including the Slonim Hasidic dynasty, traditionally aligned with Agudat Yisrael. Yaffe has faced scrutiny within the Haredi media, with leaked past materials drawing criticism. While official rabbis have not publicly endorsed the party, Yaffe suggests this is due to political pressure and fear of losing funding for their institutions.
Yaffe refutes claims that her positions are left-leaning, identifying herself as center-right. She emphasizes her concern for Israel and its soldiers, stating the party would support a broad national government that fosters a sense of ownership among citizens, prioritizing a Zionist and then democratic government. The success of "The Haredi Public" may be measured not just by election results but by the discourse it generates within the broader Haredi community.