Orthodox Party No Longer Fringe, But a Phenomenon, Says Elyakim Stark
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
Elyakim Stark acknowledged the validity of grievances held by Moti Leitner and his supporters, stating that what was once a fringe group within the Orthodox community has become a large phenomenon. Stark, who is friends with Leitner and has discussed the new party with him, believes that significant change must come from within the establishment. He argued that this growing public requires institutional attention and support, and that ignoring them will not resolve the issue.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Elyakim Stark says the "Orthodox Public" party represents a large, no longer fringe, phenomenon.
- Stark is friends with party initiator Moti Leitner and has discussed the new party with him.
- Stark believes significant change within the Orthodox community must come from within the establishment.
- He acknowledged valid grievances from Leitner's supporters within the younger Orthodox public.
- Stark argued that this growing public requires institutional attention and support, not neglect.
Elyakim Stark discussed the establishment of the "Orthodox Public" party by Moti Leitner, revealing a close personal friendship and open discussions between them on the matter. Stark stated that Leitner is a good friend with whom he has spent countless hours talking, including about the new party and the desire of the younger Orthodox public to be recognized and have changes made in various areas. However, Stark emphasized their differing views on how to achieve these goals, asserting that the greatest change can be made from within the system and the establishment.
Stark acknowledged that Leitner and those he represents have valid grievances, explaining that individuals once labeled "modern Orthodox" and marginalized, though remaining observant, are now a significant segment of the population. He described this group as no longer being on the fringes, but rather a large public demanding to live according to their preferences, including having synagogues that suit their needs, and they are not leaving. Stark believes this phenomenon requires a comprehensive institutional response rather than neglect.
During an interview on "Kikar HaShabbat," Stark shared an analogy from a recent gathering in Bnei Brak, attended mostly by Leitner's supporters. He compared a synagogue with 400 congregants where only three individuals are chatting during prayers to a situation where 60 individuals are talking. In the latter case, he argued, one must address the root cause, either by opening a separate prayer quorum or by initiating activities for them. Stark concluded that ignoring this growing public will not make it disappear, and it is imperative to provide for their needs, positioning himself as their representative.