Living in Hiding: The Beta Israel of KECHENE AND SEMIEN SHEWA (ETHIOPIA)

Emerging through the Lens from the History of Generational Shadows

Kelly Fogel Project Statement and Photography (December 2023)

In the heart of Kechene, a sub-city in Addis Ababa, a community of Beta Israel, or Jewish Ethiopians, navigate between tradition and the desire for visibility. For hundreds of years, the majority concealed their Jewish identity, privately observing traditions within the confines of their homes while outwardly presenting as Christian Orthodox.

Fueled by a longing to break free from the shadows of historical secrecy that their ancestors inhabited, a growing number of young individuals are courageously emerging into public life proudly declaring their Jewish heritage. These moments mark a pivotal shift in the community's historical narrative.

"Nafkot-Yearning," an Award-Winning documentary by Israeli anthropologist Dr. Malka Shabtay, serves as a powerful historical lens into this profound transition. Fogel’s project captures the daily lives of these courageous individuals profiled in the documentary as they navigate the complexities of being openly Jewish in a society where generations have concealed their identity.

Through a series of evocative photographs, the project provides a glimpse into the historical context of these transformative moments of introspection, communal gatherings, and expressions of identity.

Up to 150,000 Beta Israel are believed to be in hiding across Ethiopia. As the project continues, it is expected to expand into the Amhara region, addressing more hidden communities when the civil conflict in the region subsides.

As current events unfold, it not only documents the historical struggle for recognition within Ethiopia but also resonates with the broader Israeli authorities and International Jewish community who have had to conceal identity for centuries in various locations.

This photographic series invites viewers to contemplate the universal themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the historical relentless pursuit of acceptance. These photos capture a unique historical chapter in the ongoing story of the Beta Israel, illustrating how history shapes and is shaped by the individuals who courageously step into the light.

Dr. Malka Shabtay and The Brit Olam Synagogue invited photographer Kelly Fogel to visit their community in Kechene in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to document the daily life of the Beta Israel community. Kelly heard about the film while it was screening in Los Angeles and approached Dr. Shabtay with an idea to continue documenting with still photography.

Kelly Fogel met with the Kechene community and photographed in August and September 2023. During her visit, Kelly photographed various pottery studios, weaving workshops and hand crafts workshops from the community where centuries of knowledge are being practiced and taught to the next generation. Kelly also photographed activities in the Brit Olam and Enszo Synagogue including preparation for Shabbat and Sunday morning prayers and spent time at the homes and with the families of several members of the community.

These members of the community and the leaders of the Brit Olam and Enszo organizations granted Kelly Fogel permission to use the photographs created during this period for the purpose of creating awareness of the community for the international Jewish community, gaining recognition from the Ethiopian and Israeli Governments and for fundraising for projects related to the Ethiopian Jewish communities.

This project was conceived and coordinated between Dr. Malka Shabtay, Brit Olam and Kelly Fogel and aims to continue documenting this community over the next several years. It is the third initiative to document the community by using still photography after the film and the book were created.