The integration of Mizrahi Jews into Israel was not an easy one. Jews from countries like Yemen, Morocco, Iraq, Egypt and Syria had lived there for generations and after much oppression found themselves running for their lives to Israel.
Enraged by the inequality they faced in their new home, a group of Mizrahi Jews took inspiration from the Black Panthers movement in the United States.
The Israeli Black Panthers, HaPanterim HaShchorim, who emerged from this painful time period fought for systematic change and their impact is still felt in Israeli society today.
Big Ideas
- The integration of different groups of Jews in the modern State of Israel has come with a variety of challenges.
- Israel’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths.
- One can be both a staunch Zionist and a critic of Israel.
- The Black Panther movement sparked changes that led to better inclusion of Mizrahi immigrants in Israeli society.
Essential Questions
- What kind of lasting impact did the Israeli Black Panthers have on Israeli society?
- Should Israel strive to create an homogenized and singular Israeli culture or promote a country that celebrates the distinctive nature of multiculturalism?
- What is the most effective way for groups that face inequality and discrimination to voice their concerns?
