How Do Israelis View Americans Who Make Aliyah?
Every country, along with its people, has its own unique cultural and societal norms that shape how newcomers are perceived and integrated. Israel, a country experiencing both the challenges and benefits of immigration, is no exception. In this article, we explore the varying perspectives among Israelis regarding the American immigrants who decide to make Israel their home through aliyah (the act of moving to Israel).
Bob's Perspective: Early Experiences and Insights
I came to Israel in 1991 to study in a one-year yeshiva program. After a brief foray into the Israeli army, I settled permanently in 1993. Over the course of 29 years, I have gained a more nuanced understanding of the diverse Israeli attitudes towards Americans who make aliyah. Indigenous Israelis often fall into two main categories: secular Israelis and religious Israelis, their reactions and views can vary widely, but there are common threads throughout their perspectives.
Skepticism and Curiosity
Secular Israelis tend to be more focused on material success and prosperity, which can lead them to view the motivations of American immigrants with a critical eye. At the age of 20, I was more interested in exploring spiritual and cultural experiences rather than money. Over the years, I have watched with bated breath as some of my American friends who made aliyah returned home to the United States after a relatively short stint, fueling the local belief that Americans cannot handle long-term commitments to Israel.
The Reality of Israeli Perception
My experience in Israel over the decades has allowed me to see that this view is not entirely baseless. Israelis often feel a sense of satisfaction in avoiding the economic and social issues that led some Americans to leave their home country. However, the lack of proper urban planning and infrastructure often leads to frustration and disappointment. Truth be told, the root cause is more likely a lack of investment and care from the government rather than apathy or contempt from the people.
Personal Experience and Observations
I made aliyah a decade ago, and early on, I faced the question: "Why?" This was a common question for those who chose to leave their countries, including the United States, to come to Israel. The mindset of the majority of Israelis is that they have escaped a difficult existence, and Americans, coming from a land that is renowned for providing opportunities and resources, would find prosperity in Israel just as easily. It struck me as particularly poignant when I enrolled in an ulpan (Hebrew language immersion program) in Tiberias, where I was one of the few Americans, surrounded by people from the former Soviet Union and South America.
The Fresh Wave of Immigrants
Many of my peers who were part of the initial wave of immigrants from South American countries like Argentina were faced with the daunting task of adapting to a new society. The collapse of the Argentinean banking system led to a high turnover rate in the class, with many dropping out within a week. This was a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead, especially for newcomers.
Challenges and Adjustments
As a representative of a country that people often strive to leave, I was often reminded that Americans would not stay in Israel for more than three years. While there was no concrete statistical report, this sentiment seemed to be a prevailing rumor that had a demoralizing effect on both new immigrants and their hosts. It took several years, and even after settling into a routine and truly understanding the complexities of Israeli society, for I and many others to see the reality behind the statistics.
Gratitude and Perceived Inferiority
While the initial perception was one of skepticism, over time, the attitude towards American immigrants shifted. There was a widespread sentiment that Americans were being treated with more grace and that the reason for this was America’s crucial support of Israel. However, this sentiment began to change, especially as those who had initially expressed warm welcomes started to reveal their true feelings. There is a perception, albeit not entirely accurate, that Americans are the “slow kid of the neighborhood,” a phrase used with varying degrees of harshness. This sentiment reflects a deep-seated belief that Americans lack the persistence and commitment required to fully integrate into Israeli society.
Conclusion
The perception of Americans who make aliyah is a multifaceted issue that is influenced by both personal experiences and societal attitudes. While there is a general understanding of the challenges faced by new immigrants, the specific challenges and adjustments required to integrate into Israeli society are often underappreciated. As with any society, there are both welcoming and skeptical attitudes, and it is the collective efforts of all parties involved that can lead to a more harmonious integration.