The right to education is often the focal point of conflicts between liberal states and religious enclave communities, whose unique ideology and lifestyle differ substantially from modern hegemonic groups. Many scholars have suggested theoretical frameworks grounded in law, political theory, or philosophy to address conflicting rights and social interests in the context of religious enclave schools’ curricula. However, few studies have empirically examined how educational change unfolds within religious enclave education systems. My presentation will focus on the emerging Haredi (Jewish ultra-Orthodox) activism seeking to promote secular education in Haredi boys’ schools, which typically teach almost exclusively religious studies. It will draw on qualitative studies conducted in Israel and New York. Understanding the dynamics of Haredi activism may assist in mobilizing educational rights in enclave religious communities in light of these communities’ complex relationships with the state and the inherent challenges in enforcing top-down reforms in enclave religious schools.

Lotem Perry-Hazan is a Professor of Law and Education at the Department of Leadership and Policy in Education at the University of Haifa Faculty of Education. She is a member of Israel Young Academy and serves as an editor for the Critical Studies in Education journal and as a co-convenor of the Research on Children’s Rights in Education Network at the European Educational Research Association. Prof. Perry-Hazan’s research interests include law and education policy and student rights. Many of her studies have focused on Haredi (Jewish ultra-Orthodox) education in Israel and other countries.

In partnership with Teacher’s College International & Transcultural Studies Workshop.