Standing up to Bullies

This past week in the Israeli city of Beit Shemesh tempers have flared after the story of an eight year old school girl, Naama Margolese, was aired on national news. Naama was too scared to walk to school, even with her mother by her side. Why? Becuase some men from the bordering ultra-orthodox neighborhood have decided that these little girls aren't tznius enough to walk past their neighborhood. Over the past few months, off and on, they have stood near the school yelling at the girls and spitting on them. Not that it should matter, but these are religious girls and what would normally be considered modest clothing.

Below is a map which shows the layout and demographics of the neighborhoods:

There was a demonstration Tuesday night which thousands attended. It was meant to help address the issue and bring further attention to the problem. While some arrived hoping to push their agendas the demonstration wasn't violent and hopefully a clear message will be sent. Bullying your fellow Jews is not okay and it will not go unnoticed.

The extremeists are small in number and as long as no one stands up to them the city of Beit Shemesh will be face the tyranny of a crazed few. Turning a blind eye to "a few crazies" hasn't worked. Everyone - secular, dati and charedi alike must stand up and say this isn't okay. This isn't about anti-religious or pushing a secular agenda. It's about telling bullies that what they are doing isn't Torah behavior and it cannot be allowed to continue.