Israelis can be proud of the vibrant democracy that they have

"Israelis can be proud of the vibrant democracy that they have created, and I know that many Rhode Islanders share my deep appreciation for the close friendship between our two nations." These words spoken by Lincoln Chafee resonate with a deep sense of pride and solidarity, not only for the nation of Israel but for the relationship it shares with the United States, and more specifically, with the state of Rhode Island. In this statement, Chafee speaks of the democracy that Israel has built—one that, despite its struggles, has remained resilient, thriving as a beacon of freedom in a region often fraught with conflict. It is a democracy that, like all democracies, has required great sacrifices, but which has also given birth to a society rooted in shared values, freedom, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.

In the ancient world, democracy was an ideal that was fiercely debated, fought for, and cherished. Athens, the cradle of democracy, is where the roots of this form of governance took hold. The Athenian democracy was a place where, for the first time in history, the common man had a voice in the decisions that governed his life. The ancient philosopher Pericles, in his famous Funeral Oration, spoke of the Athenian ideal, a society built not on the strength of a single ruler but on the collective power of its citizens, each with the right to speak and to vote. This system, though imperfect and often exclusive, laid the groundwork for the flourishing of ideas that would echo through the centuries and inspire the democratic movements that would follow. In much the same way, the Israeli democracy, though young in comparison, stands as a testament to the spirit of self-determination and the shared belief in the power of the people to shape their own future.

The modern state of Israel is a direct descendant of this ancient yearning for self-governance and freedom. Born from the ashes of centuries of exile and persecution, Israel’s establishment in 1948 marked the return of a people to their ancestral homeland, with the intention to create not only a safe haven but a democratic society where all its citizens could live in peace, with the right to self-determination. Though Israel’s democracy, like all democracies, faces challenges—internally and externally—it stands proud as a beacon of freedom in the Middle East, a region where such values are not always guaranteed. Lincoln Chafee, in recognizing this, honors the resilience of the Israeli people and their commitment to the democratic principles upon which their nation is built.

The relationship between Israel and the United States, as highlighted by Chafee’s words, is one that goes beyond political and military alliances; it is a friendship born from a shared commitment to democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. This connection has been forged over decades, not only through official treaties and mutual support but through the personal bonds between individuals and communities on both sides. Just as Israelis can take pride in the democracy they have built, so too can Americans, and particularly Rhode Islanders, take pride in the friendship they share with Israel. In this connection, there is a recognition of the mutual struggle for liberty and the common understanding that democracy is fragile and must be continuously nurtured and protected.

Throughout history, alliances between nations have often been built on the foundations of shared ideals and mutual respect. Consider the bond between Rome and the Greek city-states during the rise of the Roman Empire. The Romans, though initially conquerors, came to admire and adopt many of the democratic principles and cultural values of the Greeks. Over time, the relationship evolved from one of conquest to one of mutual admiration and exchange, as both peoples recognized the strength that lay in their shared values of law, governance, and the pursuit of knowledge. In a similar vein, the friendship between Israel and the United States, though tested by time and circumstance, stands as a testament to the enduring power of shared democratic ideals.

From Chafee's words, we also learn a valuable lesson about the power of international friendship. The connection between Rhode Island and Israel, though not always discussed on the grand stage of diplomacy, exemplifies how local connections can help build the broader framework of national relationships. Friendship between nations, like friendships between individuals, is often built on trust, respect, and shared understanding. These bonds, when nurtured with care, can provide the strength to overcome challenges, to move forward in times of adversity, and to celebrate the achievements that come from working together for the common good. As Chafee acknowledges, it is through this friendship that both nations can derive strength and resilience, and find common ground in their shared pursuit of peace and prosperity.

In our own lives, the lesson we can take away from this quote is profound: true friendship is not bound by borders or limited by differences. It is built on the shared values of democracy, freedom, and mutual respect. Just as Israel and Rhode Island share a bond based on these principles, so too can we build friendships in our personal lives that transcend the superficial divisions that separate us. We must strive to foster understanding, to offer support, and to build connections that are grounded in the principles of respect and collaboration. In doing so, we contribute to the greater good of our communities, and in turn, we strengthen the fabric of the nations and relationships we hold dear.