Falasha: Exile of the Black Jews

80 minutes • Documentary • Produced in association with: CBC • Production year: 1983

Known as Falasha or “strangers,” Ethiopian Jews lived in isolation for centuries, practicing an ancient, Pre-Talmudic form of Judaism, which according to tradition, traces its origins back to Solomon and Sheba. In the seventeenth century, this prosperous civilization was overpowered by neighboring tribes. Years of persecution and discrimination followed. The 1980s saw conditions worsen, as famine and a new wave of violence threatened the remaining Falasha. Operation Moses was organized in response, transporting thousands of Ethiopian Jews to Israel by means of secret airlifts from Sudan.

Written and Directed by: Simcha Jacobovici
Producers: Jamie Boyd and Simcha Jacobovici