Ethiopian Israeli Fights Racism With Laughter

Comedian Shlomo Shmuel's routines deal with the stereotyping Ethiopians encountered in their efforts to assimilate into Israeli society.

Advertisement

Shlomo Shmuel was born in Israel, but his family came to Israel in 1984 as part of the first wave of Ethiopian immigration to the Jewish state. Today, Shmuel is a stand-up comedian whose routines deal with the stereotyping and racism Ethiopians have encountered in their efforts to assimilate into Israeli society. Inspired by American television shows like “Family Matters” and the “Fresh Prince of Bel Air,” Shmuel hopes his material “opens doors” for a minority community that continues to suffer from marginalization.

Help us keep Jewish knowledge accessible to millions of people around the world.

With your help, My Jewish Learning can provide endless opportunities for learning, connection and discovery.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Discover More

What Does the Torah Say About the Land of Israel?

The entire narrative of the Hebrew Bible is built around God's promise of the land to Abraham's descendants.

Introduction to the Jewish Rules of Purity and Impurity

The rabbinic laws tumah and taharah are complex — let us orient you.

Judaism and Cancel Culture

Jewish tradition prizes a multiplicity of voices, but it also considers some ideas too dangerous to circulate freely.

Advertisement