Better known as the “Black Hebrews”, the first group of mostly American-born African Hebrew Israelite community of Jerusalem arrived in Israel in 1969. Led by Ben Ammi Ben-Israel, they came from Chicago, Detroit and other urban centers via Liberia, stating they are descendants of the tribe of Judah. The chief rabbinate does not regard them as Jewish and urged them to convert which they refused. There are some 2,000 followers in Dimona, with additional communities in Arad, Mitzpe Ramon and the Tiberias area.
Israel has questioned their beliefs and lifestyle which allegedly includes polygamy. Their youngsters do serve in the IDF, the community has a vegan restaurant in Tel Aviv and their musical groups often travel to the US and Europe for concerts.
Our tour will provide a rare look at this usually insular community in Dimona and at their transition from African Americans to Hebrew Israelites. We will meet with leaders and members of the community and will visit many of the existing facilities.
