For Tzvika Golovnitz, who runs a successful business in Modi’in Illit, he is fine with his name being publicized surrounding this story, of being the only resident in the chareidi community to display the national flag on Israel’s 69th Independent Day.

According to the Chareidim-10 report, despite being a resident of Brachfeld in the chareidi city, he displays the flag on Independence Day. He explains for one thing, it has to do with loving the land. He adds that another reason is his act is seen by many non-frum [via the media], and therefore is sends a message that we the chareidim, are also part of the state.

Chareidim-10:

You feel this way, that you are a citizen like all others despite living in a community in which there are no other flags?

Tzvika:

Let us begin with each his own and respecting the other. There are those who feel the flag is not symbolic of anything. I believe the flag represents something nice, it represents Memorial Day and Independence Day.

Chareidim-10:

How long did it take until the flag was torn?

Tzvika:

Something like 26 to 28 hours… I have no anger against the children who tore it, especially those who received a different education.

Chareidim-10:

There are those who would argue your actions are somewhat ‘being in the face’ of neighbors since this is not their hashkafa.

Tzvika:

Quite the contrary. The reactions were supportive and I was praised for doing what I did.

Chareidim-10:

An Israeli flag in Modi’in Illit – isn’t this somewhat of poking one in one’s eye?

Tzvika:

No, it is not. The response has been positive including from two rabbonim, who asked I refrain from mentioning them by name. It is good for people to see the nice side of chareidim.

It is important to point out that I do not identify with their ceremonies. I also believe limud mishnayos is more important on Memorial Day. We commemorate the annual day by establishing gemachim, limud mishnayos and things of this nature. But, as we want the non-frum to respect us, we must reciprocate by respecting them even if we do not approve of their way.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)