Protests Erupt in Mitzpe Ramon Over Homophobic Rabbi’s Scheduled Lecture

A planned lecture by Rabbi Yigal Levinstein in Mitzpe Ramon has sparked protests due to his past homophobic remarks. Levinstein, a founder of the pre-military academy Bnei David, has previously described homosexuality as a "defect" and a "tragedy," comparing it to a disease that should be eradicated like AIDS. The event, organized by the local religious council and community center under the title "How to Change Reality," invited residents to a "fascinating conversation" with the rabbi.

The controversy comes amid heightened tensions in Mitzpe Ramon following a recent pride parade, which faced opposition including flyers promoting traditional family values distributed in mailboxes and along the parade route. Residents criticized the decision to host Levinstein, questioning how his divisive views align with the community’s values of inclusion and respect for all groups.

One resident challenged the local council head, Elia Winter, asking if he still supports creating a space for all communities to live together peacefully. Others expressed concern that Levinstein’s rhetoric against women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and non-Orthodox Jewish streams is extreme and harmful. Michal Romi, an organizer of the pride parade, emphasized that while public bodies can invite speakers with diverse opinions, giving a platform to someone with a history of offensive statements sends a negative message, especially after recent attacks on pride symbols in the town.

The Mitzpe Ramon council has not yet responded to the criticism. The event is scheduled for Monday, and the community remains divided over the appropriateness of hosting Levinstein in a public venue.