Shared Society and Combating Racism
Fostering a Shared Society
NIF works to advance a society in Israel that is truly shared among its residents, one in which every Israeli has an equal stake. We are committed to combating racism and protecting minorities from discrimination.
The deepest rift in Israeli society is between Jewish and Palestinian citizens (sometimes called Israeli Arabs). This is rooted in strong national identities and exacerbated by the greater conflict between Israel and its neighbors, the prolonged occupation, and accelerating ultra-nationalist and racist political trends. In addition, there are troubling disconnects and enmities between Jewish sectors of the public.
But despite the common emphasis on conflict, there are many areas of cooperation -- microcosms throughout Israel that might “scale up” to the national level. There is also growing public awareness of the phenomenon of racism, and new opportunities for shared society-building through networking, community organizing, advocacy and litigation.
Our approach stresses the advantages of social diversity, strengthens moderating voices, and builds places for intercultural encounter that can deepen bonds and prevent escalation.
Celebrating Shatil’s Accomplishments
As Shatil celebrates its 40th anniversary, we look back on its accomplishments over the last year.
Combating Far-Right Escalation in East Jerusalem
NIF and other social change organizations are demanding that the Israeli government prevent a far-right, racist MK from provoking violence in Sheikh Jarrah.
Shatil Spotlight: Mazal Bisawer
Meet Mazal Bisawer, an NIF grants officer and former spokesperson for the Association of Ethiopian Jews (AEJ), with a long history of on-the-ground activism.
Exposing Racism on the Soccer Field
A new report by NIF’s Kick It Out initiative reveals an alarming rise in violence in Israel’s soccer stadiums.