Nessim Gaon, president of the World Sephardi Federation, accused the government and the Zionist establishment last night of perpetuating the social gap between Ashkenazim and Israelis of Oriental background and depriving the Sephardi community of its rightful representation on leadership bodies. He demanded the creation of a new Cabinet ministry to deal directly with the social gap.
Gaon’s statement at the convention of the World Sephardi Federation’s presidium here drew some strong criticism, especially his implied warning that Sephardic Jews may be tempted to leave Israel and even return to the Arab countries of their origin. He said that Sephardim have not yet been tempted “by recent invitations from Arab governments to return to their countries of origin,” adding. “Imagine what would become of Israel if and when they should emigrate en-masse.”
Gaon cited statistics on poor housing and inadequate education for thousands of Oriental Jews. He charged that the authorities have forgotten that the creation of families by young Israelis who marry comprises an “internal immigration” that is greater than immigration from the outside. Yet new flats remain “empty for months waiting for olim.” he said.
Gaon accused the World Zionist Organization of “keeping the representation (of Sephardim) on decision-making bodies at a minimum.” He noted that of the 42 members of the Jewish Agency’s Board of Governors, only one is a Sephardi. Despite their criticism, the convention delegates endorsed Gaon’s demands for adequate representation in the Knesset and government. Improved living standards for disadvantaged families and better housing for large families. The convention called on the government to give the social gap issue the same priority as defense.
Addressing the opening session of the three-day convention. Police Minister Shlomo Hillel stressed the urgency of improving the education of disadvantaged children and integrating Sephardim into the country’s social and political life. The convention is being attended by 39 Sephardi leaders from 39 countries abroad and 35 Israeli representatives.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
