A fatal stabbing spree by an ultra-Orthodox man at Jerusalem’s LGBT pride march on July 30 shocked the city, Israel, and the world. The week after the deadly attack, in which 16-year-old Shira Banki was murdered, the Holy City’s LGBT and Orthodox communities were thrust into a moment of crisis.
A chorus of condemnation rang out after Shira’s death, and not just from Jerusalem’s small but tight LGBT community. Israel’s chief rabbis, members of Jerusalem’s secular majority, and leaders of the country’s newly minted far-right government all decried Yishai Schlissel’s violent actions.
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Yet the tragedy of Shira’s death could have lasting effects. Jerusalem’s diverse communities are looking both inward and forward, toward a future where the city can embrace the gay community and overcome religious differences.
In the week after her death, members of Jerusalem’s LGBT community, progressive rabbis, and secular residents descended on the city’s Zion Square to sit Shiva for Shira. VICE News headed to Jerusalem to see how the community is coming together in the wake of this senseless death, and find out about the next steps for the Holy City’s seemingly contradictory communities.
Related: How a Brutal Murder Is Changing Jerusalem’s LGBT Community
An orthodox family walks past the Shiva tent in Zion Square in downtown Jerusalem, Israel on August 7, 2015.
A man challenges Sarah Weil at the Shiva tent in Zion Square in downtown Jerusalem, Israel.
The West Bank, visible from eastern areas of Jerusalem.
President Reuven Rivlin appears at the rally and thanks his supporters. After receiving death threats, Israeli Labor Party members – commonly known as HaAvoda – rally in front of the presidential home to offer support in Jerusalem, Israel.
An Orthodox family sits in the open air-conditioners on Ben yahuda Street in downtown Jerusalem.
At the Western wall, women wash their hands before praying.
All photos by Monique Jaques for VICE
This story was produced with support from LG as part of the Photos from Beyond program – click to see more photos from this series. VICE News maintains all editorial independence in the production of this content.
