In response to changes in the character of the northern Jerusalem neighborhood, the residents opened a neighborhood WhatsApp group and will try to strengthen the connection between the residents and the administration. “We feel that the secular residents are moving away from the neighborhood,” a resident is quoted telling MyNet. Deputy Chairman of the Community Council: “This is not an anti-religious activity”.

Following the changes that the Pisgat Ze’ev neighborhood has undergone in recent years with regard to the nature of the neighborhood and its surroundings, a special committee was established last month to preserve the character of the pluralistic neighborhood.

The new committee will focus on expanding social, economic and educational activities in the neighborhood. For example, the residents plan to appeal to government officials to open an academic institution in the neighborhood, on the grounds that the establishment of such an institution will draw young people into it. In addition, the new committee plans to appeal to the Jerusalem municipality demanding that it protect the neighborhood from the various elements that seek to change its character.

Among the changes that the neighborhood undergoes are the three new kindergartens for the chareidi sector promoted by the municipality, and the allocation of separate hours for men and women in the new neighborhood pool that will be opened at the community center.

“The number of chareidi children in the kindergartens has increased significantly and the number of secular residents has declined,” says neighborhood resident Michal Eliyahu, “we feel that the secular residents are moving away from the neighborhood. A lot of secular residents are considering leaving the neighborhood in light of the new reality. I personally try to maintain good neighborly relations with everyone.”

Eyal Mendelson, deputy director of the community administration, told the MyNet Jerusalem: “This is not an anti-religious activity or an activity that is intended to constrain the religious community in the neighborhood. The purpose of the committee is to create an alternative to a large and significant group of residents who feel they are left unanswered about their demands.”

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)