What Haredi mothers want

Key Findings:

The author, a proud member of the Haredi community, expresses concern over the unequal treatment and inadequate funding allocated to Haredi educational institutions in Israel. She speaks about her son, who attends an "exemption" institution but receives only 55% of the funding provided to non-ultra-Orthodox students despite the author paying taxes like any other citizen. This disparity results in substandard learning environments, such as studying in converted storerooms, caravans, and windowless basements.

In her community, a significant number of boys study in similarly subpar conditions, and requests for improvements, including earthquake resistance standards, have been met with reluctance and the need for constant pleading. The author questions why the Haredi public faces contempt and negative labels when their representatives raise concerns about these disparities and deteriorating conditions. She emphasizes that they are simply seeking equal treatment and for their children to receive the funding mandated by law.

The author criticizes the demonstrators who have targeted the Haredim, suggesting that their animosity may stem from a fear of a community that upholds the supreme value of the Torah. Despite facing opposition and contempt, the Haredi community remains steadfast in adhering to their values and educating their children accordingly. The author argues that upholding the law, improving dilapidated conditions, and providing the meager funding entitled to her son should not be seen as unreasonable requests.

Overall, the author highlights the need for equal treatment and fair funding for Haredi educational institutions, emphasizing the importance of upholding the law and addressing the legitimate concerns of the Haredi community.