Alex is a founding member of Women in Black, Melbourne and the Coalition of Women for Peace who travels between Melbourne and Israel. Following is an article she wrote for The Australian Jewish Democratic Society Newsletter, May 2009, after the raids on the homes of New Profile members in three cities in Israel this month. (More on New Profile soon)
How does one begin to describe what is happening to freedom of expression and debate in Israel? When is it time for global Jewish communities to raise their voices in support of the Israeli peace movements and against the actions of the Israeli government to suppress dissent? Is it not our responsibility as Jews to hold Israel accountable for its actions?
Last year, the Israeli Attorney-General announced a criminal investigation into New Profile--a feminist movement whose proclaimed aim is "civil-isation of society in Israel" and "opposition to the undue influence of the military on daily life. New Profile is part of the Coalition of Women for Peace. The group's prime role is to support young Israelis by providing counseling and information. They also provide support and information on imprisoned conscientious objectors.
In late April, New Profile activist houses all over the country were raided. Their computers were confiscated, and they were summoned for interrogation. Since then, they have been released on bail under restraining orders and were told that during the next 30 days they were forbidden to contact other members of the movement. Contrary to the police's accusation, the organization is adamant that "We do not encourage, incite or preach in favour of draft dodging."
"Amongst those interrogated: Analeen Kish, aged 70, a ceramics artist, daughter of a family of the "Righteous Among Nations" who converted to Judaism after her marriage to Holocaust survivor Dr Eldad Kish, active in organizations of Dutch Holocaust survivors in Israel. Miriam Hadar, aged 51, an editor and translator..."
As we go to press, police have summoned an additional ten activists for interrogation. What happened to freedom of expression and dissent in Israel? Why is the Israeli government attacking feminist peace organisations now? Is is because this new Israeli government has moved more to the Right with the inclusion of Avigdor Lieberman, who is known for his racism? What is our responsibility to the Israeli peace movement, freedom of expression, dissent, justice and human rights? When is it right for us to take action? Does silence in knowing what is really happening yet ignoring the situation make us complicit?
For those who love and care about Israel, watching what is happening is painful. With all the accessible information about the continuous deterioration of human rights, is it not time to voice our opinion? (For more information: Http://www.newprofile.org/english)
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