This week, during Yom Ha’zikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day), we
Israelis reflected on the price we have paid, and continue to pay, for our
freedom and independence.
The following day we celebrated that independence bestowed
upon us by the many heroes who sacrificed their lives so that Israel may exist.
Israel’s independence is, indeed, an occasion for
celebration, rejoicing in the rebirth of our national freedom in our historic
homeland, the Land of Israel.
We celebrate the fulfillment in our times of the words of
the prophets of Israel, and the culmination of 2000 years of yearning. We celebrate
the reunification of Jerusalem, the historic capital of the Jewish people for
3,000 years.
We celebrate the integration of immigrants from all corners of the
earth into our society. We celebrate an Israeli society in which all citizens
are equal under the law, Arab and Jew alike, within a robust democracy in which
human rights for all are enshrined in our laws.
We celebrate the miraculous revival of our ancient tongue,
Hebrew, last used as a spoken language in antiquity, transformed today into an official
spoken language of the Jewish state. We celebrate having made the desert bloom.
We celebrate building a vibrant hi-tech economy, at the forefront of global
technology, innovation and entrepreneurship. We celebrate Israel being a proud
and contributing member of the international community, sharing its expertise
with the rest of the world, with the goal of making our planet a better place
for all.
We must keep in mind that these accomplishments and so many
others had to be earned; they were no entitlement. Israel faces significant
challenges ahead, both externally and internally. Together, united and
determined, we have proven that we are able to overcome any obstacle. Thus,
united and resolved, we will meet the challenges ahead and continue fulfilling
Israel’s promise of being a Jewish and democratic country, with equality and
freedom for all citizens.
Thank you and חג עצמאות שמח
Shabbat Shalom,
Yaron Sideman
Consul General Of Israel,
Mid-Atlantic Region
Consul General Of Israel,
Mid-Atlantic Region
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