Protesters prepare for multi-goal rally

Activists calling for lower costs of living and haredi recruitment are set to join forces for demonstration that is to be held in Tel Aviv; Organizers hope rally will draw families

Boaz Fyler|Published: 08.04.12 , 10:17

Several protest movements are expected to join forces in Tel Aviv on Saturday evening for a rally calling for lower costs of living and a universal draft.

Organizers expressed hope that the demonstration would draw families – especially those that are expected to be hit hardest by the tax hikes and other economic measures that were recently announced by the State.

"It feels as though the burden is on the shoulders of our generation. We're the ones raising our children to love and contribute to the country, but the current government isn't making this task easy," one activist, Ron Shimri of Rehovot, said.

"But I'm optimistic," he added.

Several protest movements are expected to unite for Saturday's rally, including the Suckers Camp and the Common Denominator groups, which call for a universal army draft, as well as groups demanding social justice.

Rami Avo, who said he was fired once after missing work due to his reserve service, said that the connection between haredi recruitment and the ever-growing tax burden was clear.

"Why should we, the public that reports for reserve duty and protects the people, be crushed by the tax burden?" he pondered. "Equal sharing is the key concept here, and it's time for Bibi to understand that he cannot ignore it anymore."

'Future looks bleak'

"If we don't take to the streets, who will?" said David Brod, an activist and a father of two from Neve Monosson. He noted he and his wife attended all of the major rallies that were held last summer.

"If the situation doesn't change, our children's future looks bleak, and that's just not fair," his wife, Noga, added.

Protesters are set to gather in front of the Tel Aviv Museum around 8:30 PM for the main rally. Singers Danni Bassan and Izhar Ashdot are to perform.

Another group of social activists who refused to join the movement seeking army enlistment for haredim are expected to march from Tel Aviv's Habima Theater to the government complex on Menachem Begin Road. They intend to camp out in front of the building.