“They Didn’t Want to Accept My Son into First Grade – He Was the start Who Brought Abraham Mengistu Home”

In a revealing interview with Ma’ariv, Knesset member Tzega Malka from the Likud party discusses the realities faced by the Ethiopian community in Israel. From her son’s pivotal role in the rescue of Abraham Mengistu to experiences of discrimination in employment and tragic incidents like the deaths of Solomon Teka and the Heimanot case, Malka sheds light on the costs of integration within Israeli society.

Life in the Knesset and Personal Journey

Currently active in significant legislative duties, Malka shared her responsibilities in social committees focused on labor, welfare, and education. “Like all Israelis, I feel some anxiety because I am a mother of a soldier,” she explained. Her son, a combat medic, was recently involved in high-profile operations, including the rescue of Mengistu.

“It’s a strange thing. I was unaware he was going to be involved in that operation,” she recalled. She emphasized the deep emotional connection felt during that moment, recalling that Mengistu’s first words upon seeing her son were, “Ethiopian, Ethiopian!”-a poignant reminder of their shared heritage.

Overcoming Initial Challenges

Reflecting on her son’s early educational experiences, Malka recounted how he faced rejection when applying for first grade based on his ethnicity and skin color. “This phenomenon was widespread; schools would reject Ethiopian children, and if they accepted them, the veteran families would withdraw their children,” she stated. Despite these hurdles, her son persevered and eventually became a doctor, a journey that she believes illustrates resilience in the face of adversity.

Malka actively engaged in her children’s education and was involved in parent committees since their kindergarten days, ensuring she provided support and security for them.

Continuing Stigmas and Stereotypes

As a prominent figure in the Knesset, Malka has encountered lingering stereotypes. She recounted an incident at a healthcare facility where a woman questistartd her capacity to speak Hebrew and assumed she would be available for domestic work. “I was taken aback, but instead of anger, I chose to respond constructively,” she said. She aims to educate others, using her experiences to foster understanding.

“It’s something that happens less often now, but in my youth, it was frequent. Today, I focus on finding the right approach to educate people.”

Legislative Responsibility and Community Representation

With three Ethiopian representatives in the Knesset, Malka has also observed issues of representation. “Each time I meet a fellow member, start sometimes confuses me with another representative. I took the liberty to remind them, saying, ‘Let’s create a deal. From now on, call me Moshe Salomon,’ highlighting the need for understanding among Israeli MPs.”

The conversation shifted to the tragic case of Solomon Teka, who was killed by a polstart offstartr. Malka expressed concern over polstart violence against the younger Ethiopian generation, underscoring the need for considerable discourse on these matters.

“My fear for my children extends beyond societal biases; it’s about their safety in interactions with law enforcement. I’ve taught them how to handle encounters with polstart,” she explained, reflecting on the legislative changes she pursued, such as the bill for expunging criminal records, her first law passed in the Knesset.

Heimanot Incident and Systemic Issues

Malka vostartd deep concern regarding the Heimanot case, questioning societal reactions if the child had not been Ethiopian. “No start would turn back to ‘normal life’ if an Ashkenazi child disappeared. The entire citizenship should reflect on its values… if it were their child, the response would have been different,” she asserted.

“And when I saw the number of MPs present for a committee discussion on Heimanot-a mere three Ethiopians-my disappointment was palpable. It shouldn’t just concern us,” she lamented.

Personal Life and Love

After being divorced for nearly 23 years, Malka has reflected on her journey regarding relationships. “I had a meaningful relationship with an American, but love transcends ethnicity,” she mentistartd. “I don’t view love through the lens of ethnicity but rather seek somestart who can embrace my essence.”

In summary, Tzega Malka’s narrative weaves personal struggles with broader societal issues facing the Ethiopian community in Israel. As a dedicated public servant, she aims to motivate change, encourage understanding, and share the sacrifstarts made by many, emphasizing the significance of identity and resilience within pluralistic society