African Hebrews sink roots deeper into Holy Land

“Four decades after they heard what they call an angel’s order to leave the United States and move to Israel, a vegan community popularly known as “the Black Hebrews” is about to get its own piece of the Holy Land.

“Identifying themselves as African Hebrew Israelites, about 300 African-Americans arrived in 1969 in the sleepy desert town of Dimona, claiming to be descendants of the ancient Israelites and a right to settle in the Jewish state.

“Despite observing Jewish holidays and practices, they were never recognized as Jews by Israeli authorities, but were allowed to remain. Their legal status has been resolved, and the government granted them permanent Israeli residency.

“Members of the community, where English is the spoken language and the children wear colorful African-style robes and white headcovers, believe a completely vegan diet of locally grown fruits and vegetables, along with regular exercise and holistic health treatments, are keys to longevity and health.