The Yom Kippur divide

(JNS) — This Yom Kippur, one of my favorite songs came to mind, and it was not a happy occasion. Each year on the holiday, I take the opportunity to walk in a carless Tel Aviv. This time, I found myself returning home via Dizengoff Street.

I knew there was a controversial prayer service set to take place in Dizengoff Square. Amidst the ongoing clash over the government’s judicial reform campaign, it had become a flashpoint.

Some activists opposed it because of the planned mechitzah, which technically violates laws against gender segregation in public spaces. Others felt it was a deliberate pro...