I’ve waited a few days to post this, in hopes that an English-language newspaper will pick it up, but it appears to be completely off the radar. Israel prides itself on being the Jewish home, where Jews always have been and always will be welcome, regardless of any other factor. Especially the color of their skin. Nevertheless, the residents of at least one neighborhood in Ashkelon seem to think they are living in the past. America’s past.
Ynet published an article (but only in Hebrew) about a couple trying to buy a home in Ashkelon. Their real estate agent tried to inquire about an apartment, on behalf of the couple, who are of Ethiopian origin, and was given a rather rude awakening by the owner who was trying to sell his apartment.
“There are no Ethiopians in this area. Never have been and never will be. That is our policy…anyone can come, but not Ethiopians. The whole building is like this. I hope so, at least, in order to maintain the value of the apartment and the value of the building.”
Apparently, this is not news to city hall. Former Deputy Mayor Avi Vaknin said he has “encountered this phenomenon numerous times, and shocked every time.” He also added that it is good that it is being “revealed in all of its ugliness because only [that] will help fight such ugly phenomenons.” Really? That’s the only way to fight this? This, coming from a city hall official (albeit former). I don’t understand.
Not only has this been going on for years, but the media does not think it is even newsworthy. That’s a great aliyah draw.
It made the Jerusalem post as well.. it also will make Ynet english once someone gets around to trasnlating it. (they tend to be a bit slow like 2-3 days on this stuff)
and yes as an Israeli i think the racist that closed the buildings to these people should be brought up on charges!
Aren’t the Ethiopian Jews welcomed among the racist Jews of Hebron and Kiryat Arba?
In todays news,,
Egged bus coop fires driver for making racist remark to passenger…
any more smart questions?