Ep 3. Race and Class

My Israel season 1 episode 3 titled Race and Class dives into the complex and often contentious issues of social stratification within Israeli society. The episode features interviews with people from a diverse array of backgrounds, including Arab-Israeli citizens, Ethiopian Jews, and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds.

The episode begins by addressing the long-standing tensions between Arab-Israelis and Jewish Israelis. We hear from a Palestinian-Israeli who speaks about the discrimination she has faced throughout her life. She recounts instances of being denied employment, being singled out for security checks, and even being physically assaulted simply because of her ethnicity. We also hear from Jewish Israelis who express their opinions on the challenges of coexistence and their feelings of resentment towards Arab-Israelis.

The episode then delves into the experiences of Ethiopian Jews living in Israel. We hear from an Ethiopian-Israeli who speaks about his struggle to integrate into Israeli society, despite being born and raised in the country. He recounts instances of being discriminated against in school and being forced to attend separate classes from Jewish Israelis. He also speaks about the challenges of finding employment and the difficulties of reconciling his Ethiopian heritage with his Israeli identity.

The episode then shifts gears to explore issues of class within Israeli society. We hear from people living in low-income neighborhoods who express their frustration with the Israeli government's neglect of their communities. They cite a lack of investment in infrastructure, education, and job opportunities. We also hear from a wealthy Israeli who provides a contrasting perspective, arguing that Israel's economic growth has been beneficial for all sectors of society.

Throughout the episode, we are presented with a diverse range of perspectives on these complex issues. While there is no clear answer to the questions of how to address social stratification within Israeli society, the episode does offer valuable insights into the challenges and frustrations faced by those living on the margins. Ultimately, My Israel season 1 episode 3 serves as an important reminder of the need for compassion, understanding, and empathy in our pursuit of a more just and equitable society.