Renowned Iraqi-Israeli author and activist, Sami Michael, passed away at the age of 97, leaving behind a legacy of literary works that shed light on the struggles of oppressed minorities and the challenges faced by Mizrahi Jews in Israel.
Born in Baghdad in 1926, Michael was a native Arabic speaker who used his writing to bridge the gap between Jews and Arabs, showcasing the unique experiences of Arabic-speaking Jews like himself. His characters provided insight into the discrimination faced by Mizrahi Jews from the Middle East and North Africa, as well as his relationships with Israeli Palestinians in Haifa.
Despite facing discrimination from Israel’s European-influenced Jewish leadership, Michael remained critical of the country’s treatment of Palestinians and advocated for oppressed minorities. He served as the president of the Association for Civil Rights in Israel for over two decades, fighting for justice and change.
After fleeing Iraq in 1948 and settling in Israel, Michael worked as a journalist before transitioning to a career as a hydrologist. It wasn’t until 1974 that he published his first novel in Hebrew, highlighting the struggles of Mizrahi Jews in Israel.
Throughout his career, Michael wrote over 20 novels, children’s books, plays, essays, and cultural criticism, earning numerous literary awards for his impactful work. He believed in the power of culture to expose ignorance, injustice, and corruption, urging intellectuals and consumers of culture to take action against societal injustices.
Sami Michael’s legacy as a prolific writer and advocate for social change will continue to inspire future generations to stand up against injustice and strive for a more equitable society.