Hundreds of Haredi Journalists Gather in Jerusalem to Launch Professional Council

The Museum of Tolerance in Jerusalem hosted the founding conference of the Haredi Journalists Council this week, an initiative by the Zericha Foundation aimed at creating a professional body to support Haredi journalists. The council will provide legal assistance and protection against baseless lawsuits and improper pressures. Approximately 100 journalists, editors, broadcasters, and reporters from various Haredi and general media outlets participated, including representatives from B’Chadrei Haredim, HaKavua, Galei Tzahal, HaMevaser, HaModia, HaMechadesh, HaMachane HaHaredi, Yated Ne’eman, Kan Morasha, Kikar HaShabbat, Merkaz HaInyanim, Mishpacha, Channel 14, Channel 16, Kol HaRama, Kol Chai, Rega, and others. This event was one of the largest gatherings of Haredi media professionals in recent years.

The conference began with a special tour of the Museum of Tolerance, showcasing interactive exhibits focused on social dialogue, Israeli history, and national challenges. Journalists registered on-site for membership cards in the new council, granting them various benefits and professional support. The registration process was accompanied by a unique fish bar served by chef Shimon Kav from Delivering.

Rabbi Benzion Nordman opened the event, emphasizing the importance of responsible, direct, and authentic journalism. Speaking on the 14th anniversary of Rabbi Yosef Shalom Elyashiv’s passing, he highlighted the value of face-to-face communication and the challenges Haredi journalists face balancing public interest with religious and ethical responsibilities. He clarified that the council’s role is not to decide ideological or halachic issues but to provide professional and legal backing to journalists and shield them from unfair pressures.

Chief Rabbi of Israel, Rabbi Kalman Bar, the guest of honor, praised the council’s establishment and stressed that true journalism should benefit the public without resorting to slander or harmful investigations. He thanked the Zericha Foundation for supporting journalists against frivolous lawsuits. Veteran Haredi commentator Yaakov Rivlin received a special certificate recognizing his 40 years of professional and responsible coverage of Haredi politics.

Dr. Avishai Ben Chaim delivered the keynote lecture, reviewing the transformations in Haredi journalism since its inception, earning admiration for his respectful coverage of the community and its rabbis. Haredi media presenter Dana Betzalel introduced the Haredi Women Journalists Council and welcomed the initiative. Attorney Rivka Dagan gave a well-received lecture on how Haredi media can handle gag orders and legal threats.

Journalists praised the council’s formation as a significant step for Haredi media, enhancing their ability to work without fear of undue pressure or baseless lawsuits, thereby strengthening the entire Haredi press. Membership registration continues online. The event’s strategy was led by Chabad artist Peri Leibovitz and producer Mendy Rahamim.