The first time I ever met Shulamit Aloni was when I was a 15-year-old high school student. She spoke to us on the question of “Who is a Jew?” and delved into concepts I had never heard before: human rights, equality for all, regardless of race, gender and religion, and full freedom from oppression and coercion. I was immediately captivated. That day had a significant impact on my life and shaped much of my future.

Over the years, I came to see Aloni as my mentor. Her book, “Women as People,” had a significant effect on my worldview and my belief in the importance of gender equality.

As the chairwoman of Meretz, she led the party to its greatest political achievement — 12 Knesset seats — and although she never hid her opinions or opted for political sycophancy, she was able to impact the public discourse in Israel and at times facilitate real change.

Read the article in full at Israel Hayom.