We’re Not MonolithicBy Prince Immanuel Ben-Yehuda “Hostility amplified by modern media too often obscures reality, diversity, and complexity. “That has been painfully obvious in the swirl of acrimony and recrimination surrounding the unfortunate comments expressed by Kanye West and others. “It is a fact that a significant number of African Americans identify in some way as Hebrew Israelite, Black Jews or Black Hebrews. There may even be more variations of the terms, but the meaning is the same - a belief in a historical connection to the Biblical Israelites. “And yet, rather than being monolithic, or single-minded, their ideological and cultural orientations run an extraordinary gamut of perspectives making up a disparate quilt of sometimes conflicting beliefs. “For example, many are unaware of the community of African Hebrew Israelites of which I am part, that has lived in and contributed to Israeli society for more than five decades. “Based in Dimona, members of our community have represented Israel in cultural, academic and sports events around the world, including the Maccabiah Games earlier this year. “Through our Martin Luther King Jr/SCLC - Ben Ammi Institute for a New Humanity, we have also coordinated dialogue with non-violent activists from the Palestinian community. “When we arrived in Israel in 1969, there were those who greeted us with suspicion and hostility. Our response was one of anger and accusation. What changed? “When asked by the founder of Heart of a Nation several decades later how we managed to get beyond this impasse, Ben Ammi, the spiritual leader of our community, responded simply, “We grew up.” He wasn’t just referring to those of us who had made Israel our home. He was also speaking of our neighbors. Once we began genuinely engaging each other, and moving beyond negative stereotypes we had of each other, we were able to transcend our animus. “That is what is so desperately needed now.” About Heart of a NationHeart of a Nation is bringing together Americans, Israelis, and Palestinians who are committed to making their societies better. |