A letter to America: Reclaiming the dream under liberty’s torch
The copper crown of Lady Liberty, a beacon of hope for countless generations, seems to flicker against the stark reality of a widening chasm between America’s proclaimed ideals and its foreign policy, particularly towards the Palestinian people. As an Omani Arab Muslim intellectual, I stand in this shadow with a heart deeply troubled by this ever-growing disconnect.
The question, once again, echoes through the wind: “Why the animosity from Arabs and Muslims?” Some point to America’s freedoms themselves, a stark contrast to their lived experiences. Others see a glaring hypocrisy in the disconnect between words and actions. Regardless of the perceived cause, the pain of Palestinians living under occupation, creates a dissonance that cannot be ignored.
America, at its best, has embodied Walt Whitman’s vision: “Here at last, the common air that bathes the globe.” Today, the people of the Middle East yearn for an America that reflects the spirit of Langston Hughes’ verse: “Let America be America again... the land where every man is free.” This America, we hope, embraces not just freedom, but also humanity, peace and the fundamental right to self-determination.
The dissonance between the ideals of the US and its policies isn’t just a matter of perception; it’s rooted in concrete examples of double standards and policies that alienate, fuelling resentment and undermining the very principles America claims to uphold.
Consider the current situations in both Gaza and Ukraine. In Ukraine, we see America leading the charge in condemning civilian casualties, advocating for humanitarian assistance, and imposing harsh sanctions on Russia for its military actions. These swift and decisive responses align with the principles of protecting human rights and deterring aggression.
Yet, in Gaza, the narrative seems strikingly different. While the US urges restraint and expresses concern about civilian casualties, the unwavering support for Israel’s military actions, despite the disproportionate loss of Palestinian lives, raises serious questions about its commitment to upholding these same principles universally. This disparity is further amplified by the restrictions on essential supplies entering Gaza, leaving many feeling abandoned by the international community.
Moving beyond policies that alienate and fuel resentment, acknowledging the double standards that erode trust, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to resolving the Palestinian conflict are crucial steps in bridging this chasm. Recognising a Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel could be a historic turning point, paving the way for a new era of understanding and cooperation.
The recent escalation in Gaza serves as a stark reminder of the urgency of action. Images of children buried under rubble, families clinging to hope amidst devastation, and overwhelmed hospitals force us to confront the brutal reality that contradicts America’s proclaimed ideals. While the US condemns human rights abuses elsewhere, its unwavering support for certain policies in Gaza creates a dissonance that undermines its moral authority and fuels resentment. To truly champion its founding principles on the global stage, America must demonstrate a genuine commitment to upholding human rights for all, including Palestinians, and advocate for a just and lasting solution in Gaza, one built on peace, mutual respect and a recognition of the inherent dignity of all people.
This dissonance extends beyond Gaza. The continued dispossession of Palestinian land, the restrictions on movement and basic necessities, and the persistent denial of self-determination create a simmering sense of injustice that cannot be extinguished by military might or unilateral pronouncements. It requires a genuine commitment to international law, human rights principles and the dignity of all individuals.
But let us not dwell solely on the challenges. The American spirit, at its core, embodies hope and the belief in a better future. The countless Americans who have spoken out against injustice, championed human rights and advocated for peace offer a beacon of hope. The vibrant and diverse Muslim communities within the United States are living testaments to the power of coexistence and understanding. It is this spirit, embedded in the very fabric of the American story, that offers a path forward.
Let us move beyond the echo chamber of ideology and engage in honest dialogue. Let us listen to the stories of Palestinians, understand their aspirations, and acknowledge their pain. Let us work together, not out of obligation, but out of a shared belief in the inherent dignity of all human beings, to build a future where peace and justice prevail.
This is not just a plea for the Palestinian people, but a call for America to live up to its ideals, not only domestically, but also on the global stage. Let us reclaim the dream that shimmers under Lady Liberty’s torch, not just for some, but for all. Let us build a future where the American story resonates not just as a promise whispered, but as a reality lived, a beacon of hope for the world.
RECOGNISING A PALESTINIAN STATE ALONGSIDE A SECURE ISRAEL COULD BE A HISTORIC TURNING POINT, PAVING THE WAY FOR A NEW ERA OF UNDERSTANDING AND COOPERATION