The primary reason for my being in Israel is to learn what it’s like to be an Israeli — all the wonders, difficulties, elation, struggles, and passions included.  That’s why I joined this protest.

 

If you’ve been paying attention to the news coming out of here, aside from the constant barrage of violent attacks from religiously motivated radicals, there is an amazingly organic, homegrown protest of the cost of living in this country.  Housing costs, especially in the cities, has skyrocketed as industry privatization moves forward.  The wealth gap is widening as the middle class is becoming decreasingly able to purchase land of their own, and land owners reap the benefits of the lack of a rent-ceiling.

 

On the evening of Saturday, September 3rd, after Shabbat ended, the “March of the Million” protest began in almost every major city around Israel, calling for a recognition of the plight of the people.

 

I joined the march in the city of my temporary residence, Karmi’el.  It was emotionally-charged, meaningful, and most importantly, peaceful.  The march culminated in a park in the center of the city, where a stage was set up where speakers and musicians further empowered the eager crowd.