Therefore, we gathered: A fresh perspective on the Declaration of Independence
In a Time of Growing Division – Returning to a Shared Foundation.
As Israeli society faces deepening internal divisions alongside ongoing security challenges, a new initiative invites us to return to a core point of agreement in the Zionist project: the Declaration of Independence.
This year especially, amid complex and painful challenges, we managed to gather – for an evening of reflection, dialogue, and hope. On April 22nd, at Beit Shalom Aleichem in Tel Aviv, a vibrant and moving event brought together Mabua, ANU – Museum of the Jewish People, BINA, Daniel Centers, Havruta, and Beit Tefilah Israeli in a powerful collaboration.
Under the banner “Therefore We Have Gathered”, a diverse crowd from across the Israeli spectrum came together to celebrate Independence Day and engage in deep, thoughtful conversation centered around Israel’s founding document.
The evening opened in a warm and welcoming atmosphere – complete with falafel and beer – followed by a heartfelt introduction from Iris Chaim. Soon after, participants joined in a collective reading of the Declaration of Independence, not as a ceremonial act, but as a living, breathing text that still speaks to us today. It was a powerful moment that fostered connection around shared values.
From there, the room came alive with rich, meaningful conversations. Participants broke into discussion circles exploring a range of topics:
From Independence to Reality: Could we still reach the same broad agreements today?
Under the Fire of War: A deep dive into the Declaration’s wartime context and the values that guided its signatories.
A Nation in Reserve: Personal reflections from reservists navigating identity, purpose, and the Declaration’s relevance to their experience.
To Be a Free People in Our Land: An interactive role-playing game recreating the pivotal moments of the Declaration’s writing.
Equal Rights for All: An open conversation about today’s tensions around religion, LGBTQ+ rights, and the role of the state.
The evening closed with a dynamic performance by artist Amit Ulman, whose music brought the event’s messages to life with heart and energy. Attendees left inspired, reflective, and deeply connected to the values the Declaration continues to represent.
As Moti Fassel, one of the organizers from Mabua, put it:
“The Declaration was written in a time of conflict – and yet, from that conflict, consensus was born. This evening was about reminding ourselves that we can still listen to different voices and find agreement – especially when it comes to what matters most: our shared home.”
