In an exclusive interview with 'Maakav', Qawasmi reveals his complex and moving life story, reflecting the challenges and hopes of diverse Israeli society.
Qawasmi, an Arab-Israeli deaf man of Muslim origin, describes his personal journey from childhood in Be'er Sheva to his current life as a successful chef in Tel Aviv. "I studied at Comprehensive School VI, a mixed school for Jews and deaf students", he says. "That's where I was first exposed to the idea of national and military service."
Although not legally obligated, Qawasmi chose to volunteer for national service. "It was very important for me to contribute to the State of Israel," he explains. "I wanted to do something meaningful and contribute to the society I'm part of." He found his place as a volunteer in the neurological department at Soroka Hospital in Be'er Sheva.
Qawasmi's decision to serve was not a given, especially considering his family background. "My father lives in Hebron and his family is there. I'm not in touch with my father's family because it's very complicated. I know that my father's family hates the army and national service," he reveals.
However, Qawasmi had to deal with racism. "Unfortunately, I experienced racism in certain cases. As a deaf Arab and Muslim in Israel, there were instances where people judged me by my origin and not by who I am," he admits.
But Qawasmi didn't let negative experiences stop him. "I always tried to see the positive side and move forward. My message to racists is simple: we are all human beings, and we all deserve equal treatment and respect," he says.
After national service, Qawasmi continued to learn and develop. He completed a course in sign language for teachers and then moved to Tel Aviv to study at a culinary college. Today he works in a bakery as a head chef and is also an independent chef. In the near future, he plans to open a store called "Bakery Dizengoff".
But beyond his professional success, Qawasmi carries a heavy secret. "Yes, I'm gay," he reveals with painful honesty. "I've been in a relationship with Eden Bezalel for three years. He's Jewish and I'm Arab. Our relationship represents the beauty in Israeli society, that we can be together even with different religions and accept each other."
But reality is more complex. "My mother knows I'm gay, but it's hard for my father to accept homosexuals and his whole family. My father and his family could kill me," he explains. The fear of his extended family's reaction prevents him from revealing his sexual identity to them.
Despite the many challenges, Qawasmi remains optimistic and believes in the power of Israeli society to change and evolve.
Noor's message is very simple, "I understand there are concerns and reservations. But national or military service can be a meaningful way to contribute to society and the state. It's an opportunity to create new connections, learn important skills, and make a positive impact."
Noor emphasizes the importance of participation and contribution to society, especially for marginalized communities. "It's important for me to reach out to the Arab deaf community and invite them to participate in activities and contribute to society. Often they feel alone and disconnected, but collaboration and joint activities can improve personal and group feelings and also contribute to building a better country for all of us," he explains.
The story of Noor Muhammad Ali Qawasmi is a living testimony to the complexity and potential inherent in Israeli society. He embodies many tensions – between Arab and Jewish identities, between religion and state, between tradition and progress – but also the hope for a better future, where every person can live their life with dignity and peace with all parts of their identity.
In a world where it's easy to focus on differences and disputes, Qawasmi reminds us of the power inherent in acceptance, giving, and belief in the good in people. "Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a big difference," he concludes. Indeed, through his personal and moving story, Qawasmi himself is a living example of the great change one person can bring about.