My family came to Israel from Ethiopia. They did not share a lot about their lives there or about their journey to Israel. So I did not know much about my family’s past. I was embarrassed about my family, my color, and felt a lot of social pressure. I struggled socially and in school. I did not believe I would ever succeed.

 

Then I participated in a program by Dror Israel. I learned all about the Ethiopian Jews, about my own heritage. I came to understand my family better, and to love my parents and grandparents even more. The experience gave me legitimacy and the feeling that I am not worth less than others.

 

We are a brave people. And thanks to Dror Israel, I don’t need to hide anymore. I feel safe being who I am.