http://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/Politics-And-Diplomacy/Likud-Shas-deal-to-transfer-rabbinical-courts-to-Religious-Services-Ministry-rallies-criticism-402171
The link above is to an article that I read having to do with current events. In the article, it mentions that Shas recently joined the Coalition, and grants the Haredi party control of the ministry. it talks about how there was an agreement made between Likud an Shas, saying that the rabbinical courts system can be transferred from the judge ministry to the religious services ministry. However, the transferring of these courts is a problem because the rabbinical courts have exclusive jurisdiction over Jewish marriage and divorce. The transferring of rabbinical courts also greatly effects the marriage and divorce rights for women, because the rabbinical courts rule the validity of marriage, and of Jewish law related to manage.
Reading this article, I became very frustrated, because I feel like the Ultra-Orthodox have such a strong influence in Israel, taking more and more power away from all other sects of Judaism. In reality, the Ultra-Orthodox are quite a minority in Israel, so it's upsetting to me that they control much of the country, and can make most of the country's decisions. I have always believed in equal rights for both men and women, and especially talking to Anat Hoffman today, I have gained a whole new outlook on the importance in advocating for women's rights in Israel. If we don't argue and fight for our rights, we may never get them. I think that from here, we can only move forward. It's important that women continue to fight for their rights, no matter what they are. And one day, I hope our voices will be heard.
I also felt frustrated after reading this article. I do not understand why the Ultra-Orthodox have maintained all of the control of Israel when they are a minority- how is this fair for the majority residents in Israel, who are secular? Listening to Anat Hoffman the other day also reminded me of the need for equality for men and women in Israel, and I feel that it is important that we keep advocating for these issues.
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