The complex history of African American identity within Judaism

Science · Published 20 October 2026 · Updated 21 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: From enslaved people in Barbados to modern communities in Dimona, the intersection of African American heritage and Jewish identity is a rich tapestry. It spans centuries of conversion, lineage claims, and distinct theological movements that challenge traditional definitions of what it means to be Jewish.

The presence of African Americans in Jewish life dates back to colonial times. Sarah Brandon Moses and Isaac Lopez Brandon, who were enslaved in Barbados, represent some of the earliest documented Jewish figures of African descent depicted in New York City portraits. Other historical figures include Lucy Marks, a "devout observer" of Judaism in Philadelphia during the late 18th century, and Billy Simmons, who attended services in Charleston despite local restrictions on converts with African ancestry.

A unique lineage exists among Black Sephardim in Harlem. This community descended from Black Southerners enslaved by white Sephardi owners. Following a specific interpretation of Deuteronomy Chapter 15 regarding "bondsmen," some owners converted their slaves to Judaism. These families preserved their faith through generations, maintaining a sense of pride in their ancient religion as part of the Jewish elite.

In the 20th century, distinct movements emerged, such as the Church of God and Saints of Christ founded in 1896 by William S. Crowdy. This group blends Judaism, Christianity, and black nationalism, teaching that Black people are descendants of the ten lost tribes of Israel. Similarly, the African Hebrew Israelites of Jerusalem (formerly the Original Hebrew Israelite Nation) emerged in Chicago in 1967 under Ben Ammi Carter.

The African Hebrew Israelites faced significant hurdles regarding Israeli citizenship. Despite moving to Dimona and Arad by the late 20th century, the Chief Rabbinate ruled they could not substantiate their heritage for citizenship because they refused formal conversion. While they were granted temporary visas and basic needs in the 1970s and 80s, they remained non-citizens, creating a unique legal and social status within Israel.

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