Monday, November 7, 2011

Occupy Tikkun Olam!

Check out this column in J Weekly, Northern California's Jewish News weekly, by Coexistence Track participant Samantha Kanofsky. Samantha attended a few of the social protests that gripped Israel over the summer, and reflects on that in light of the "Occupy" protests currently sweeping the U.S.

On a Sunday night, two other Tikkun Olam participants and I opted out of a night of clubbing (which in Tel Aviv is no easy task) to attend the public gathering in the vast outdoor courtyard of the Tel Aviv Museum. Upon arrival, we were met with an unusual sight. Tables of Israelis, stretching as far as the eye could see, were arranged in a manner I’ve only ever seen before at large organized (and often expensive) conferences or benefits — never in a public arena open to anyone, regardless of his or her social status.

Strangers, or near strangers, eight or nine to a group, were gathered around each table, respectfully discussing the social and economic reforms they hope for and expect to work toward in their daily lives.



Read the whole article here.