TA: Hundreds protest for social justice

Upcoming election sends social protesters out on streets, calling 'Bibi, Steinitz go home'

Gilad Morag|Published: 10.12.12 , 00:20

Hundreds gathered in Tel Aviv on Thursday for what they called a "Protest for Human Dignity." The protest was organized by social activists, including Daphni Leef, who was behind the 2011 social protests.

Marching across the city, the protesters carried signs presenting the images of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Yuval Steinitz, and were calling out "The people demand social justice" and "Bibi and Steinitz go home."

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Leef told Ynet that she was in the process of founding an apolitical movement that will focus on social issues. "This protest marks the launch of the people's election campaign," she said. "Namely, a cry out to politicians to prioritize bread, water, housing and wages above other issues."

דפני ליף, הערב בתל אביב (צילום: מוטי קמחי)

Daphni Leef in 'Protest for Human Dignity' (Photo: Motti Kimchi)

In light of great focus on foreign affairs, protesters were crying out for a change in political priorities and put social and welfare issue first. "I think the problem is not the politicians, but rather the system as a whole," said Amir, one of the protesters. "Replacing the people in the government won't help the citizens."

Shosh, another protester, expressed hopelessness: "What has changed? We sat in Rothschild (Boulevard), a man set himself on fire, and still politicians don't care about the people."

But Leef remained optimistic. "Our message is that even if you're not a part of the political system, you can make a difference with the force of social protest," she said.