Arab Doctor Details Fear and Hurt Amid Rising Racism in Israel
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Dr. Tzala'ah Abu Sabia (Frig') shared a deeply personal account of fear and hurt due to rising racism in Israel, questioning her ability to continue working. She emphasized her Arab identity is integral and not a cause for suspicion, highlighting the vital role of Arab medical professionals. The doctor called for support from colleagues and administrations against humiliation and threats, asserting her inherent right to dignity regardless of her contributions.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Dr. Tzala'ah Abu Sabia (Frig') expressed fear and hurt over rising racism impacting her work as a doctor in Israel.
- She stated her Arab identity is integral and should not be a basis for suspicion or discrimination.
- The doctor highlighted the essential contributions of Arab medical staff to Israel's healthcare system.
- She called for open support from colleagues and administrations against humiliation and threats.
- Dr. Abu Sabia (Frig') asserted her inherent right to dignity, independent of her professional achievements.
A doctor, identified as Dr. Tzala'ah Abu Sabia (Frig'), has published a poignant post detailing her fear and hurt stemming from what she describes as rising racism in Israel. She expressed deep distress, stating, "I am hurt. I am afraid. I don't know how to return to the next shift." The doctor described her struggle to reconcile her professional duty with the fear of being perceived as a "terrorist" due to her Arab identity, questioning how she can look patients in the eye and give her all when such thoughts echo in her mind. She emphasized that her Arab identity, encompassing her language, family, culture, and memories, is integral to who she is and should not be hidden by her white coat.
Dr. Abu Sabia (Frig') asserted that her background should not be an indictment and that anger does not justify calling Arabs "terrorists." She highlighted the significant contributions of Arabs in saving lives and providing medical care, noting that their right to dignity should not be contingent on their utility to others. She argued that every Arab, regardless of their profession or achievements, deserves to live with dignity and security in Israel. The doctor posed a rhetorical question about the consequences for the country if Arab doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other medical staff were to stop working, urging Israelis to recognize their presence and contributions.
Expressing anger towards those who write hurtful comments and those who passively observe them, she criticized the silence of those who speak of partnership but remain quiet when racism is directed at Arabs. She stated her refusal to undergo loyalty tests or have her professionalism erased upon discovery of her Arab identity. Dr. Abu Sabia (Frig') rejected the notion of developing a "thicker skin," placing the responsibility for combating racism on those who perpetrate it, not those who endure it. She called on hospital administrations and colleagues to openly support Arab medical staff, stand by them during instances of humiliation, speak out against threats, and act to ensure they are not left alone to face such challenges.
Concluding her post, the doctor reiterated her identity as an Arab and a doctor who belongs in Israel, emphasizing that her worthiness of respect is inherent and not dependent on saving lives. She stated her intention to continue treating patients but made it clear that she would no longer remain silent after such experiences.
