The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #73819   Message #1283688
Posted By: Bill D
28-Sep-04 - 11:17 PM
Thread Name: BS: Religious Freedom vs. Local Zoning Laws
Subject: RE: BS: Religious Freedom vs. Local Zoning Laws
Rabbi SOL...in your original post, you state clearly that the current problem is that current zoning laws make it difficult for orthodox Jews to live 'the way they want to', that is, in large, extended families, often in the same house, I gather.

Then, by the latest post it is " If it is people like me (beard and yarmulke), they suddenly have a problem". So, which is the problem, zoning laws, or prejudice? I have NO doubt that prejudice exists, but prejudice by itself does not necessarily justify changing zoning laws.
Theoretically, it seems, these people 'could' live nearby without high-density exceptions to the laws, especially since they won the suit to allow houses of worship within walking distance.

I, myself, do not care for restrictive covenants, but I simply can't judge whether the current zoning laws are for the general good, or whether they violate basic human rights.

You DID ask for opinions...now you need to ask yourself if any of the opinions you have gotten make any sense.