Gypsy Community in Jerusalem

Domari people in the Middle East and North Africa arrived in the region after their exodus from India assumed to be between the seventh and tenth centuries. Gypsies were settled in the Old City of Jerusalem, in the Bab Hutta neighborhood near the Lion’s Gate.

The Domari Society has long suffered from discrimination by the local Arab majority. They face neglect, poverty, and adult illiteracy. They speak Arabic. Although their unique nomadic lifestyle and Domari language have largely been forgotten, the Domari’s identity can still be found in their customs, food, and handicrafts.

The Domari Society of Gypsies in Jerusalem was founded in the year 2000 by Amoun Sleem, a Gypsy woman who has lived in the community for her entire life.
She has seen and experienced the severe discrimination, cultural marginalization, and poverty. She started the organization to advance and empower the Gypsy community and preserve its unique cultural heritage.

• A visit to Domari Society center in Shu’fat
• Meeting with Amoun Sleem, director of the center
• Meeting with community members
• Lunch with community members