Embroidering and Integrating

by Zarah Patriana · 2008-12-28 20:09:00 UTC
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Final night of Chanukah and the final installment of Eight Fair Trade Nights.

While the Gaza Strip is experiencing some major destruction, there are those in Israel looking to spread peace and find peace of their own. The Beta Israel are a community of Ethiopian Jews with many now living in Israel. There was a mass emigration of the Beta Israel to Israel in the 80's and 90's particularly due to the conflict going on in Ethiopia and made possible by the Law of Return. Ethiopian immigrants have faced some hardships integrating into Israeli society, so ESRA (English Speaking Residents Association in Israel) started a project to help with their integration.

A Fair Trade project was started allowing Ethiopian women use their traditional embroidery techniques to work from home, gain a supplemental income and also care for their children. One item they work on are these Shalom cards showcasing their embroidering skills and vibrant use of color. Just an example of the use of tradition and culture to help integrate into a new world where peace is in dire need.

[photo: wayupnorthtonowhere, image: globalexchangestore]

Zarah Patriana
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