Reviewing 'We Are Black Jews' by Roni Fantanesh Malkai

Roni Fantanesh Malkai's book, "We Are Black Jews," delves into the history and experiences of the Beta Israel community, Ethiopian Jews who maintained their faith for over two millennia amidst Christian and Muslim neighbors.

The narrative highlights three significant operations—Brothers, Moses, and Solomon—that facilitated the aliyah of more than 100,000 Ethiopian Jews to Israel. Malkai offers an insider's perspective, recounting her family's arduous journey to Israel in 1979 and the challenges they faced upon arrival.

She emphasises the resilience of those who undertook perilous treks to reach safety, aiming to honor the memory of approximately 4,000 individuals who perished en route or in Sudanese refugee camps.

Beyond chronicling historical events, the author addresses the societal hurdles encountered by Ethiopian Jews in Israel, shedding light on issues of integration and acceptance.

Her work serves as both a tribute to the community's unwavering spirit and a call to acknowledge and address ongoing challenges within Israeli society.

Read Original Article: JPost

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