In 2007, the Israel Religious Action Center filed a challenge to the segregated publicly funded bus lines that operate in Israel. On these buses, women are forced to enter from and sit at the rear of the bus, and they are required to wear "modest" clothing. Failure to comply has led to verbal intimidation and harassment by men on the bus, in addition to physical violence. Originally intended for strictly Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods, these buses are now employed across and between several cities, without any alternative public bus service. Bus companies running these lines are receiving government dollars to support a service that discriminates against women.

The suit urged the Israel High Court of Justice to compel the Transportation Ministry to investigate the need for any segregated service, and if deemed necessary, to require a desegregated alternative. The High Court handed down a decision, tasking Shaul Mofaz, Israeli Minister of Transportation, to look into the problem and determine next steps. Mr. Mofaz has assigned an advisory committee to review the issue and determine the future status of these buses.

Subject:

Dear [Decision maker's name automatically inserted here],

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