Art Exhibition: Jordan and Israel Peace Effort
April 22, þ2001Thank you for the warm introduction, Mrs. Dixon. I am honored to be here this afternoon. And to have the opportunity to share in the vision, creativity, and invaluable message of peace presented by Ms. Gigi McKendric.
For decades, your art has served as a means for remembering the past while expressing hope for the future. You have embarked upon countless artistic endeavors that have transformed catastrophes into meaningful memorials. Your projects have honored hundreds of innocent victims throughout the world, and have touched the lives of thousands.
This exhibit represents more than a proposed memorial - it carries a profound message. That peace is not an option- it is a necessity for our future.
We have gathered to experience a moving tribute to seven Israeli schoolgirls who died at the hands of a gunman on the Israeli/Jordanian border in 1997. This senseless act of violence still resonates in our hearts. It was a moment of great loss for our entire nation.
It is important to remember not only the way these young girls died, but also how they lived. These seven vibrant souls brought great joy to their families and their community in Bet Shemesh. They were each creative, bright, and filled with life.
Natalie, Shiri, Keren, Nirit, Adi, Ya'ala, and Sivan will be enshrined in our memories forever. As we gather here today, allow me to send out condolences to the families of each of these young girls. Our hearts and prayers are with you.
As we strive to achieve peace, and security in our region, it is vital that we understand the lessons of this tragedy.
Terror will never prevail. Violence only brings hardship, pain, and despair for future generations.
This message is especially important now, as Israel endures a rapid escalation of terror that has threatened the security of every Israeli citizen- including our children.
Israeli children have been targeted victims of acts of cruelty. While Palestinian children have been exploited, socialized to hate, trained at terrorist camps, and used as cover for gunmen.
Young Palestinians are being influenced by incitement and messages of hatred. They are urged to use violence to achieve the political goals of their elders.
The victimization of all children, worldwide, must be stopped. Our future depends on it.
It is essential to understand that we are only as strong as the potential of future generations. The life of even one child is an invaluable gift that must be treasured. Their lives represent the path of our future.It is important to steer children towards tolerance and mutual respect. And instill in them the moral obligation of peace.
We must teach our children that peaceful co-existence with our neighbors is an attainable reality. At the same time, we will continue to strive for the security of our people.
The Jordanian-Israeli relationship is a testament to this goal. Jordan and Israel have enjoyed the fruits of peace for six and a half years. Both countries recognize their respective sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence. They respect each others right to live within defined borders, and they have developed a strong neighborly relationship to ensure a lasting peace.
The Jordanian-Israeli relationship has endured both progress and hardship, but it has persevered. Despite setbacks, such as the tragedy we remember today, this relationship is strong, enduring, and in the best interest of both countries. It is now up to Israeli and Jordanian youth to ensure its continuation in the future.
We call on the Palestinian leadership to end the incitement and violence, and to return to the path of peace.
Life is a cycle from one generation to the next. It is our responsibility to confer the lessons of hardship onto our children. At the same time, it is equally important to remind them that life must go on.
Today, life continues in Israel despite the violence. During Passover, families gathered across the country. Children played in our national parks by the tens of thousands.
The proposed memorial park conveys this message. It is intended as a celebration of life, and a testament to the enduring relationship between Israel and Jordan. Ms. McKendric envisions that children will gather there to remember the past, celebrate the present, and look towards the future with hope.
As you leave this evening, it is my wish that you take with you this message. Today, peace may seem like a dream. If we remain optimistic and committed, we can make it a reality.
Thank you.
