Machon Siach at SAR High School hosted Bete Yisrael to Israel: The Ethiopian ...Jewish Journey, a day of learning dedicated to the history, resilience, and ongoing story of Ethiopian Jewry.
At a moment when strengthening Jewish Peoplehood feels especially urgent, students had the opportunity to engage directly with scholars, activists, educators, artists, and community leaders whose lives and work illuminate this often underrepresented chapter of the Jewish experience.
The program featured Ethiopian Israeli scholar Rav Dr. Sharon Shalom and activist Roni Fantanesh Malkai, who reflected on their Aliyah from Ethiopia during Operation Brothers alongside former Mossad commander Dani Limor, whose efforts helped lead the rescue mission. Students also learned from Rav Menachem Waldman, Rabbi of Gondar, and from Joseph Feit and his children Rebecca (SAR High School Parent) and Jeremy, whose humanitarian work continues to support the Jewish community in Gondar today.
Professor Ephraim Isaac, founder of Harvard University’s African and Afro-American Studies Department, spoke about bridge-building between Black and Jewish communities and the enduring importance of dialogue and shared responsibility.
Throughout the day, students also experienced Ethiopian Jewish culture through art, storytelling, music, and food. Tamara Tarango Baynesain led a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and prepared fresh injera while sharing her journey to Israel during Operation Solomon. Artist and educator Hirut Ruth Yosef guided students in traditional Ethiopian art while reflecting on her childhood in Gondar and her family’s journey to Israel.
Thank you to our speakers, educators, and community partners for creating a day rooted in scholarship, history, and meaningful connection.