In his powerful song “Handcuffed,” Ethiopian-Israeli rapper Teddy Neguse addresses a pressing issue that has plagued his community for years: police brutality against young Israeli men of Ethiopian descent. Although the song was released in 2017, its relevance has surged amidst the recent political and social turmoil gripping the region.

With lyrics like “They want me trapped with handcuffs on my hands,” Neguse captures the unfortunate reality faced by many Ethiopian Israelis who feel targeted and marginalized solely based on their skin color. His words resonate deeply, reflecting the systemic discrimination that has long troubled the community.

The Ethiopian Jewish community’s journey to Israel, beginning in the 1980s via secret airlifts, marked the start of a struggle for integration into Israeli society. However, this journey has been damaged by instances of discrimination and prejudice. Shocking revelations, such as the disposal of Ethiopian blood donations in the late 1990s, shed light on the deep-seated biases within Israeli institutions.

Today, despite numbering around 150,000 people, Ethiopian Israelis continue to face significant challenges, including limited opportunities and a high poverty rate. While some have made strides in fields like the military, police force, and politics, the broader community still struggles with systemic barriers to success.

The music video for “Handcuffed” serves as a visual representation of the song’s themes, depicting a chilling encounter between Neguse, dressed as a soldier, and two policemen who violently assault him without cause. This scene mirrors a real-life incident from 2015, in which two policemen were filmed beating a uniformed Ethiopian Israeli soldier, sparking widespread protests across the country.

Through his artistry, Neguse sheds light on the injustices faced by Ethiopian Israelis, amplifying their voices and demanding accountability for the discrimination and violence they endure. His song serves as a rallying voice for change, urging society to confront its biases and strive for equality and justice for all.

– Leah Woods –