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Finding Their Place: Moroccans Celebrate in Israel |
| Section: CULTURE / PEOPLES |
| Author: Written and photographed by Nechemia Meyers |
| Publication:
The World & I Online |
| Issue Date: 4/1/2003 |
| Size: 2,439 Words, 15,237 Characters |
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If you happen to see an Israeli politician with a fez on his head, and a crepe or sweet pancake in his hands or mouth, you can be pretty sure that he is attending a Moroccan Mimouna [Maimona] celebration. He'll certainly be there in hopes of winning the votes of one of Israel's most distinctive immigrant communities, but he'll also be enjoying one of his country's newest and most popular holidays. Indeed, Moroccan Jews are the only group of immigrants who have succeeded in turning one of their unique "old country" festivals, the Mimouna, into an Israeli national celebration.
During Mimouna, Moroccans open their homes to relatives, friends, and neighbors. The celebration begins immediately after the week of Passover ends. Proceedings begin in the evening when the hosts, dressed in beautiful robes and caftans, serve a plethora of traditional foods for their guests. The following day, which is now designated an official school holiday, is given over to celebrations in public parks, with barbecues, folk dancing, and general merriment. Last but not least, these events are likely to receive visits by glad-handing politicians.
One can easily see why Mimouna appeals to Israelis of all backgrounds. In contrast to the many traditional Jewish holidays, which are generally serious or even somber in tone, Mimouna is almost pure fun and friendship. Also, at least in its modern Israeli incarnation, it has scant religious overtones.
The origins of Mimouna
It is far from clear where or when the Mimouna t...
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...it has also been active in efforts to memorialize the deceased monarch, whom the Jews always considered a friend. As a result of his efforts and those of other people, Israeli streets and parks have been named after Hassan II and a special postage stamp was issued in his honor. Unfortunately, it seems unlikely that there will be other Israeli stamps honoring Arab leaders in the foreseeable future.
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Publication Details
(The World & I Online) |
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The World & I Online is a
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Originally published monthly in print as The World & I, our site
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