The Ethiopian-Israeli Second Generation: Identity, Belonging and Challenges Between Two Cultures

Who Are They?

Israel-born (or very early arrivals) children of Ethiopia-born parents. ~80,000 people — ~48% of all Ethiopian-origin Israelis.

The Dual Identity

"I'm Israeli — but also Ethiopian. Both. Neither side fully accepts that." — Yohannes T., 26, Tel Aviv.

Grew up with parents who didn't always speak fluent Hebrew; absorbed Israeli culture at school, Ethiopian culture at home; experienced racism from both Israelis and, sometimes, Ethiopians who saw them as "not Ethiopian enough." Under 30% speak Amharic fluently.

Research Findings

Dr. Yael Brinker (Tel Aviv, 2023): 61% identify primarily as "Israeli"; 23% primarily "Ethiopian"; 16% both equally. Women identify more as Israeli than men.

Organisations for the Second Generation

IUEJA: iueja.org | ENP youth leadership: 03-5368944 | Facebook group: "דור שני אתיופי ישראלי" (12,000+ members)

📞 03-5368944 | iueja.org