Prof. Bill Miles

Northeastern University

Bio

Sub-Saharan Jewry is composed of otherwise disparate ethno-linguistic groups. Beyond Judaism what unites them is political affinity with Israel, i.e., Zionism. As such, these Afro-Judaic communities function as Jewish diasporas: connected to Israel through both scripture and patriotism. An embryonic movement of Pan-African Judaism - the Sub-Saharan African Jewish Alliance (SAJA) – effectively functions as a diasporic association. Together, these communities constitute a potentially new “diasporic lobby” with international implications and diplomatic clout.

"Diaspora" as Hermeneutic Framework for African Jewry

Abstract

Sub-Saharan Jewry is composed of otherwise disparate ethno-linguistic groups. Beyond Judaism what unites them is political affinity with Israel, i.e., Zionism. These Afro-Judaic communities effectively function as Jewish diasporas, connected to Israel through both scripture and patriotism. An embryonic movement of Pan-African Judaism - the Sub-Saharan African Jewish Alliance (SAJA) – is an emblematic diasporic association. Together, these communities constitute a potentially new “diasporic lobby” with international implications and diplomatic clout.