Operation Solomon: Ethiopian Jewry Then and Now
JDC has been engaged in efforts to assist the Jews of Ethiopia since 1919. The images that follow from the JDC Archives and current files illustrate JDC's involvement in the rescue and homecoming of this Jewish community, and in programs designed to promote their welfare and well-being—a mission that continues in Israel today.
photo: Peggy Myers
In the decades that followed JDC's initial support for Dr. Jacques Faitlovich's medical relief expedition in November 1919, JDC repeatedly sought opportunities to meet Ethiopian Jews' medical, educational, and religious needs.
photo: Arthur Leipzig
JDC's humanitarian response to Ethiopia's severe famine helped bring relief to those living in the drought-stricken Gondar region, then home to some 20 - 30,000 Jews.
An expanding medical program at the clinic provided treatment and immunizations for the local population, as well as training for regional health workers in Gondar Province.
JDC's relief efforts opened the door for additional programs that directly benefited the local Jewish community and helped to meet its religious needs.
photo: Donald M. Robinson
With the 1984 arrival in Israel of growing numbers of Ethiopian Jews, JDC began working with Israeli government agencies to develop services to promote their absorption, including vocational training, academic enrichment, and leadership development opportunities.
photo: Studio Magnes
As Ethiopia's civil war drew to a climax, the Jewish population converged on Addis in the year leading up to Operation Solomon, impelling JDC to mount a comprehensive health, welfare, and educational program that benefited nearly 23,000 people at its peak.
After coordinating efforts to secure the release of the Jews gathered in Addis, JDC played a critical role in ensuring the smooth execution of Operation Solomon, which brought over 14,000 adults and children to Israel on May 24-25, 1991.
Expanding on its existing efforts for Ethiopian olim, JDC worked with the newest arrivals, helping youngsters, families, and the older generation to make the difficult transition to Israel's Western society.
photo: Studio Magnes
Civil unrest made it impossible for Jews living in Ethiopia's Quara region to join the airlifts to Israel that culminated in Operation Solomon, but over the next 12 months JDC and the Jewish Agency were able to reach and bring most of this population to Israel.
Powered by partnerships with North American Jewish Federations, JDC's PACT model continues to help Ethiopian-Israelis bridge social and educational gaps.
photo: Debbi Cooper
JDC guides Ethiopian-Israeli youth and their parents through all stages of their enrollment in the Israel Defense Forces, providing ongoing support and counseling on post-army employment and education options.
One-stop centers provide disadvantaged immigrants and others (ages 18-34) with life skills, employment training, and social involvement opportunities that equip them to become successful adults.
By working together to renovate shared living spaces, immigrant and impoverished veteran Israelis are boosting the quality of life and pride in their neighborhoods.
Otherwise isolated seniors become active, productive, and appreciated community members through their engagement in gardening and other neighborhood improvements.
Tags for this gallery: Children, Employment / Entrepreneurship Training, Families, Health / Medical Issues, Israeli Immigrants
