This July 4th, American Jews should make a point of celebrating America.
We are profoundly grateful to this country that has welcomed us, protected our religious freedom, allowed us to prosper, and welcomed our contributions to its well-being. For decades, the nation that sought to “give to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance,” provided Jews with a safe and welcoming haven. That unique Jewish experience and the American emphasis on caring for its most vulnerable led our greatest rabbis to describe this country as a malchut shel chessed, a kingdom of kindness. While recent years have brought a very concerning rise in antisemitism, the decisive majority of this country’s elected and civic leaders have responded to that trend with disgust, correctly seeing that behavior as profoundly un-American.
America views the State of Israel as a partner that shares its values and strategic priorities, and is therefore Israel’s most trusted ally, providing vital material and political support. The world’s greatest superpower has often stood alone in backing the nation that dwells alone. American support for Israel has gone from essential to existential and was decisive in destroying the capacity of the Iranian regime to achieve its malign plans to bring death to Israel and America.
This July 4th, as American Jews we should demonstrate our gratitude to this country by displaying the American flag at our institutions, homes, and on our cars.
Now, more than ever, we need to make a point of celebrating America.
Now, more than ever, we need to thank G-d for the gift of America.
Now, more than ever, we pray that G-d bless America.
