Yaniv’s Thoughts on Current Accusations Against Israel + Ethiopian Doro Wat Recipe
rich flavorful sauce that is often considered the national dish of Ethiopia
I first met Yaniv through The Natan Fund (a Jewish giving circle) and then wrote to him for help with outreach for Jewish Food Hero’s upcoming community cookbook: Jewish Sweets, a collection of 99 favorite dessert recipes from Jews worldwide. In the process of going back and forth with him on email and WhatsApp chat, we got to talking about Yaniv’s work, his perspective and his experiences as an Israeli Ethiopian man. I was particularly interested in hearing about his perspective and work since the Oct 7th attacks on Israel, which has seen growing antisemitism and accusations against Israel. Listening to Yaniv’s perspective felt grounding for me.
In the diaspora, many of us are feeling like our heads are spinning in disbelief, sadness and fear about rising antisemitism and the war that Israel is justly fighting. Speaking with Yaniv helped me, I wanted to talk in more depth with him, and to open the opportunity for our community to hear from him too, and that’s how this interview came to be!
I hope that reading this interview will support you during these times.
Can you please introduce yourself to our readers? Share a bit about your background, interests, and what you're currently involved in.
My name is Yaniv Jember and I am an Israeli Ethiopian man living in Tel Aviv. I spend my time on social activism and working in finance: Venture Capital Funds, Start-ups and Corporate Venture Capital.
I am fortunate to have been recognized with several prestigious accolades, including the Fulbright Scholarship in April 2010 and the Argov Fellowship in August 2009. Additionally, I was honored to receive the Global Leadership Award from Brandeis University International Business School in October 2010, followed by the Hassenfeld Fellowship in August 2011. Beyond academia, my dedication extends to social activism in Israel, where I strive to advocate for positive change and societal progress. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for social justice, I aim to embody leadership and make a meaningful impact both in finance and social activism.
At the moment I run a social media task force to fight lies and misinformation and provide moral clarity on the situation happening in Israel. We provide information on the complexities of Israeli society and the conflict.
We run in three tracks as described below:
Bunatalk - Social Media X(Twitter) + Instagram - working with content creators to tell Israel's story from the viewpoint of the Ethiopian-Israeli and Jews of color
Bunacast - Podcast - At Our podcast we discuss various topics from current news, culture, media, technology etc and fight misinformation
Bunameet - Engaging influencers to build bridges and promote understanding of Israel's diverse society
To start, could you please share a bit about your family's journey from Ethiopia to Israel? What led to their decision to make this significant move, and what were some key moments in their migration story?
My dad's journey to Israel was more physically difficult than my mom’s. At 23 years old, my father endured a hidden and difficult voyage in 1973 on a fishing boat until finally reaching Israel. My mom, at 19 years old, was caught in the midst of Ethiopia's war in 1978, and became part of an exchange deal between the two nations. She was, in essence, traded for arms.
Both my parents held strong Jewish identities, and when the opportunity to immigrate to Israel arose, they seized it with unwavering determination.
A defining moment for my dad was immediately joining the Yom Kippur War as a combat soldier. Another crucial moment for my dad came with the realization that not everyone in Israel was religiously observant. Having initially joined a secular kibbutz, he eventually sought a more religiously aligned community and he moved there.
For my mom, perhaps the key moment was meeting my dad. At that time there were very few Israeli-Ethiopians, so he became her guide and window into her new country.
For our readers that are not familiar with the story of Ethiopian Jewry, can tell us the historical and cultural journey of Ethiopian Jewry, highlighting key events such as their origin, the challenges they faced in Ethiopia, and the remarkable migrations to Israel in operations like Moses and Solomon?
Ethiopian Jews, also known as Beta Israel, have a unique and compelling history, tracing their lineage back to the Dan Tribe, according to historians and religious scholars. Isolated in the highlands of Ethiopia, they maintained their Jewish identity over centuries, distinct from other Jewish communities.
In the 19th century, the first attempt by Ethiopian Jews to reach Israel occurred in 1862, led by Abba Mahari. Unfortunately, the effort resulted in tragedy as the group perished during an attempt to cross the sea, reminiscent of Moses in the Bible. Subsequent interactions between Jewish communities and Ethiopian Jewry increased, leading to a rabbinic debate about their Jewish status.
With the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948, the Ethiopian Jews saw an opportunity to reunite with their fellow Jews and began planning escape routes from Ethiopia. The challenge was formidable, given the country's resistance to their departure, attempting instead to convert them to Christianity.
A plan was devised, in collaboration with Israeli authorities, for Ethiopian Jews to walk for weeks to Sudan and then be airlifted to Israel. This perilous journey claimed many lives due to hunger, disease, or encounters with soldiers. The operation, known as Operation Moses, took place between November 21, 1984, and January 5, 1985. Over 30 flights, facilitated by Trans European Airways, transported about 8,000 Ethiopian Jews from Sudan via Brussels to Israel.
Operation Solomon followed in 1991, bringing over 14,000 Ethiopian Jews back to Israel. This Aliyah, or immigration to Israel, marked a significant chapter in the history of Ethiopian Jews, as they sought to reunite with their brethren in the ancestral homeland. The operations involved cooperative efforts between the Israel Defense Forces, The Mossad, the CIA, the U.S. embassy in Khartoum, mercenaries, Sudanese state security forces, and leaders from the Ethiopian community. The success of these operations underscored the resilience and determination of the Ethiopian Jewish community to reconnect with their homeland: Israel.
As your parents made Aliyah to Israel, they likely encountered various challenges. Can you elaborate on some of the key struggles they (and their generation) faced during their early years in Israel? How did they navigate these difficulties, and were there any particular moments that stood out as significant in overcoming these challenges?
Growing up in Ethiopia they had many instances where they were treated badly by the Christian community. One of the challenges they had in Israel was dealing with legal doubt about the“legitimacy” of the Jewish peoplehood of the Beta Israel community. In the 1970s, some rabbis still questioned their Jewish identity and required Ethiopian Jews for “Giuy Le-Humra” (i.e. a modified conversion ceremony). I think this motivated the Israeli Ethiopian community to fight for recognition of the Ethiopian Jewish (i.e. Beta Israel community) as a distinct Jewish ethnic group.
Building upon your family's journey, acculturation and integration are multi-generational processes for immigrants worldwide. What do you perceive as some of the key challenges and opportunities for your generation of Israeli Ethiopians as you navigate life in Israeli society? Are there specific experiences or aspects of this process that you find particularly impactful or noteworthy?
In some ways, we carry the legacy of our parents – a legacy of both opportunity and challenge. They strived to acculturate, contribute to Israel's thriving nation, and simultaneously combat racism, all with the aim of building a better society. For my part, I feel immense gratitude for the educational opportunities that opened doors to great companies and a fulfilling career. However, racism hasn't disappeared entirely, and we must strive to eradicate it at every time.
It's important to celebrate the achievements we, as a community, have made. We have two Israeli-Ethiopian judges, a growing number of doctors, and countless individuals reaching their full potential in every field. Acculturation is undeniably a long and sometimes painful process, but I believe continued dedication to progress will ensure a brighter future.
Shifting our focus to the rich tapestry of Israeli society, many people outside Israel may not fully grasp the depth of diversity within the country. Can you share your perspective on the diversity that exists in Israel, considering various cultural, religious, and ethnic backgrounds? How has this diversity shaped the fabric of daily life and interactions, and are there specific examples or experiences that stand out to you?
Looking at the vibrant Israeli society, it still surprises me that some perceive Israel as a monochrome entity. Take our cuisine, for instance. It's a mix of flavors, a testament to the diverse ethnicities that have enriched our country. Yemeni Jachnun, and falafel which you can find everywhere and at every Israeli kitchen. This culinary fusion mirrors the way different cultures have seamlessly woven themselves into the fabric of our daily lives.
My own circle of friends is a microcosm of this rich diversity. Each one has opened a window into a different cultural landscape, broadening my understanding and appreciation for the Jewish world. The most significant example is my partner, who came from Belarus. Through him, I've delved into the fascinating history of the Ashkenazi Jewish communities in the USSR time period. I have learned about the traditions and customs that shaped his upbringing, and discovered a shared cultural heritage that we both essentially share as Jews.
Our relationship, in many ways, embodies the melting pot that is Israel. We are a blend of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, yet we resonate with a common Israeli identity.
While celebrating the diversity and richness of Israeli society, it's important to acknowledge that no society is without its challenges. From your perspective, what are some of the main challenges that Israeli society faces today? In addition to recognizing these challenges, are there specific aspects or areas where you believe improvement is crucial for the betterment of our generation and the generations to come? What changes or initiatives do you see as potential avenues for positive transformation?
Diversity doesn't magically happen. It's an ongoing process that requires nurturing through proactive efforts and addressing existing challenges. While some progress may occur naturally over time, we can't just sit back and hope for the best. Raising a flag and identifying areas that need attention is crucial.
And when it comes to achieving optimal diversity, I believe the ideal approach lies in embracing both the melting pot and multiculturalism. The melting pot fosters a unified identity while celebrating the contributions of different cultures. On the other hand, multiculturalism encourages the preservation of distinct cultural identities within a cohesive society, like a beautiful mosaic composed of unique tiles.
In Israel's context, addressing the socio-economic disparities that my community is still facing is paramount. Gaps in education, employment, and welfare need to be tackled head-on.
Israel is a country where Jews have lived since ancient times, and has experienced waves of Jewish immigrants from around the world, contributing to its rich and diverse identity. From the early waves of European Jews to immigration from Arab countries and North Africa in the late 19th century to mid-20th century, followed by arrivals from South America, and more recently, Ethiopian immigration, Israel's history is marked by a complex tapestry of cultures. Recognizing that racism exists in every country and culture, can you shed light on how racism functions within Israel? How do various communities, originating from different parts of the world and arriving in different historical periods, navigate these challenges?
Racism is a deeply personal experience for each individual it affects. While isolated incidents may seem insignificant, their cumulative impact forms an undeniable problem demanding our attention. And when policies fail to address or even hinder the progress of diverse groups within Israeli society, it becomes even more critical to take action.
Education and acculturation are powerful tools in this fight. The more we learn about each other's rich and diverse backgrounds, the more we expose ourselves to each other's histories and cultures, the more empathy and understanding we cultivate. This education needs to happen within the Ethiopian-Israeli community, building a strong sense of identity and pride. However, it also requires the open arms of the wider Israeli society to truly welcome and integrate the community.
Compassion is another key aspect in navigating this complex issue. We can't expect others to fully grasp what it feels like to face blatant racism, like the employer who told me “Sorry, but I don’t hire black people” or the police officer who unfairly questioned me when I visited a nice neighborhood. But through open communication and shared experiences, we can build bridges of understanding. Sharing our stories, not with blame but with vulnerability, paves the way for real progress and a more just society.
Remember, we all share a common desire for a thriving Israel, a better place for future generations. Our shared history and Jewish foundation offer a strong bedrock to build upon. Recognizing this common ground allows us to move forward, united in our commitment to dismantle racism and create a society where everyone can flourish.
Accusations of Apartheid and white supremacy are viewed as part of a new strain of Antisemitism, used to delegitimize Israel. These terms are often associated with issues related to the treatment of Palestinians and Arab citizens of Israel. From your vantage point, what insights can you share regarding the complexities and nuances surrounding these discussions, considering your family's history and your own experiences?
Both Israelis and Palestinians are experiencing a great tragedy as a result of Hamas’ actions, leading to the loss of innocent lives. Many who have been part of a marginalized community, who live far from the Middle East, might view the situation through an oppressed/oppressive prism. And more often than not they will use terms such as colonialism and apartheid, needless to say, all incorrectly used and inaccurate.
For those observing the situation from afar and who uphold the ideals of liberalism and democracy, this conundrum divides liberals into two camps: those who believe that, in the name of oppression and the underdog, any means necessary are justified. So they will over simplify the situation labeling Israel as the bad guy and - regardless of the facts - will call us White supremacists and an apartheid state. I am not saying Israel is perfect, nor do I say that racism doesn’t exist in Israel. But Israeli is definitely not what they call us.
My issue is with people who do want to understand the truth but are too complacent in educating themselves on the situation happening here. We must cultivate critical thinking skills and resist the pressure from radical elements within the black and queer communities to conform to their ideologies based on our race or sexual orientation. We cannot blindly defend every action or statement made by members of our respective groups simply because they share our identity or marginalized status.
As I expressed here: I am a proud Black, gay, Jew, and I stand firmly with Israel against the terror attacks of Hamas. One of the major battlefields where all this hate is spread is the internet. In the age of social media, reliable information, facts, and the truth have become irrelevant, and now it is the age of narratives, feelings, and fake news, which have become more prevalent. No one is spending time reading history, fact-checking sources, or following events carefully; instead, we rely on some influencers' reels who are hyper-woke and immediately take their stance.
Education is key in understanding the situation. Talking to people on both sides and avoiding engaging with radical voices is the right path to understand the complexities of this war.
How did your time as a student at Brandeis University in America shape your understanding of your identity as an Israeli Ethiopian man? Were there particular insights or lessons from your time in the U.S. that influenced your perspective?
My time as an Ethiopian-Israeli student at Brandeis University was a transformative experience that profoundly shaped my understanding of my identity.
The vibrant campus at Brandeis' business school had a diverse student body from across the globe. I was surrounded by peers practicing Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and other faiths, expanding my understanding and appreciation for different cultures and religions.
As a black man, I felt different in the USA and Israel. For example, In the United States, I felt that people were fearful of me. In Israel it felt like people disregarded me, were ignorant about my culture and where I came from and looked down on it.
Fortunately, my time at Brandeis coincided with a period of relative peace in Israel. This spared me from having to navigate tough discussions about the ongoing conflict. Instead, I found myself immersed in the vibrant energy of a booming Israel at the forefront of technological innovation. Witnessing how Israeli tech was shaping the future filled me with pride, and I enjoyed engaging in discussions about investments in the Israeli economy.
In our times, Antisemitism has become a notable online phenomenon. What are the most troubling aspects of Antisemitism on social media today? Have you observed any particular trends or intensification of Antisemitic sentiments online since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent defensive actions taken by Israel?
As I mentioned above, I’m concerned about the large amount of misinformation and poorly researched content being shared on social media. I see a concerning outcome from this trend for online antisemitism: a spillover effect we see now taking place around the world of rising hate towards western democracies.
Here is a quick look at the governments siding with Israel in this conflict with Hamas. The following countries sponsor, support, and lobby for Israel’s right to defend itself after October 7th:
US
Canada
UK
Germany
France
On the other hand, the following countries are sponsoring Hamas:
Iran
Russia
Lebanon
Qatar
If you notice, the governments siding with Israel are also dealing with a growing section of the populace which is seizing hold of the political moment to push dangerous antisemitic views and express their strong anti-Israel views, seeking to destroy western democracies and calling for a new world order. It is not surprising to see that the governments against Israel don’t experience any instability or citizen protest because they have already oppressed all liberal ideas.
The food landscape in Israel is incredibly diverse, reflecting the various cultural influences within the country. Can you tell us about the food landscape you grew up in, and perhaps share some examples of your favorite foods from your childhood?
My childhood was infused with the flavors of the Middle East, thanks to my circle of friends who made Aliyah from countries like Morocco, Iraq, and Yemen. Among them, Moroccan cuisine is my favorite, and I could never resist a good shawarma. When it comes to dessert, a slice of baklava always comes first over any other sweet.
My Ethiopian cuisine also played a great role, with my mother's Doro-wat. This yummy chicken stew, simmered with berbere spices and served on the spongy yet super thin injera, is a dish I'll never get tired of.
Now as an adult living in Israel, what are some of your favorite foods today? Are there specific dishes or cuisines that you find yourself regularly enjoying, and do you have any particular go-to favorites that hold a special place in your heart?
Don't get me wrong, my heart belongs to the warm spices of Morocco and the comforting stews of Ethiopia. But there's something about a perfect slice of pizza that just gets me every time. Maybe it's the nostalgia, the simplicity, or just the pure deliciousness. Everywhere I travel, I can't resist trying the local pizza. I devoured countless slices during my trip to Rome a few years ago! But beyond the deliciousness, pizza holds a special place in my heart. It's the food that connects me to countless life events, whether it is my first time visiting certain places or the cheap slice I bought when I was student and I wanted to save money.
Doro-wat (Ethiopian Spicy Sauce) Recipe
Doro-wat is a traditional Ethiopian dish and one of the most popular and beloved in Ethiopian cuisine. It is a rich flavorful sauce that is often considered the national dish of Ethiopia. Doro-wat is made with a combination of spices and a unique spice blend called berbere. Berbere is the secret ingredient. Berbere typically includes a combination of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, basil, korarima (a type of spice), and other spices. My mother travels all the way to Ethiopia to buy it because she wants to see exactly how it is made.
Enjoy the pareve-wat sauce with meat or the dairy version with injera bread, or any other bread.
Doro-wat sauce
Category: Dairy/Pareve
Time: 1 hour 35 min
Ingredients:
4-5 Tablespoons salted butter (or vegan butter for Pareve version)
4-5 big chopped onions
1 tablespoon finely minced garlic (or more to taste)
1 tablespoon finely minced ginger (or more to taste)
1/4 cup Ethiopian berbere spice mix
Instructions:
Heat the butter in a cast iron pot
Add the onions and saute, covered, over low heat for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the garlic, ginger, and 1 tablespoon butter and continue to saute, covered, for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the berbere and the 2 remaining tablespoons of butter and saute, covered, over low heat for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Reflections on Yaniv’s experiences
I hope you’ve found what Yaniv shared with us illuminating and interesting - If you feel moved to share this intereview with friends and family, please do.
I would love to hear from you about what you learned, especially any new insights you gained from Yaniv. Please share your thoughts in the comment below.
And don’t forget to find Yaniv and his social media work online:
Bunacast podcast
Thanks for learning with me!
Am Yisrael Chai
Kenden