Archive: News

For years, many Americans and an equal number living abroad have been highly critical of the United States and its policies. During my lifetime, I have heard plenty of criticism ranging from the Vietnam War and racial injustice to Watergate and our wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Much of the negative publicity is justified as we are a nation which partners with regimes that offers little in the way of democratic ideals, human rights, and universal freedoms. This has been our "American Paradox." We are a beacon for freedom, liberty and justice while turning a blind eye to many allies that deny basic freedoms and rights to its citizenry.

And when we see the world in turmoil and unrest, as we are now witnessing in Africa and the Middle East, we wonder whether our policies and actions to right our wrongs will make a difference in the lives of those who desire the same opportunity for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness that we seek.

Nation after nation turns to the United States for assistance in their fight to break free from tyranny. The President, Congress, and our armed forces struggle with the decision to intervene or stand by and wait. Each day is crucial to the cause for democracy in many nations. Opposition forces in many countries are looking to America and her allies for support.

So it is with pride that I along with many in our nation, watched as the United States was the first country to respond to the disaster that struck Japan two weeks ago. Japan, which had been our enemy just 66 years ago, is our ally in need. Japan, a nation that had transitioned from a military dictatorship to a democracy, as imperfect as our own and with a history of failures and blemishes, looked to the United States for guidance, support, and expertise to assist them with rescue and recovery efforts.

Recently, on the Lehrer News Hour, Judy Woodruff interviewed Japan's Ambassador to the United States, Ichiro Fujisaki. Following an extensive interview with Ms Woodruff about the rescue efforts, the complexities of recovery and rebuilding, and the safety of the nuclear power plants, the Ambassador asked if he could add one comment. Here are his words:

"We in Japan are so grateful to Americans for extending their help, support to us, when -- your rescue team was one of the first ones to be there.

"Your forces are working day and night for search-and-rescue, and your experts are there to talk with us. I'm talking with your government officials every day several times. And your people are really extending great support to us, and the contribution, sympathy, Red Cross, NGOs, your companies. And you are standing with us in really a time of need. And we are very grateful to that. I just wanted to express that."

Ambassador Fujisaki expressed his gratitude with clarity, dignity, and sincerity. For a culture that prides itself on self-reliance and rarely shows emotion, the Ambassador appeared to be on the verge of tears with his public acknowledgement. His words serve as a reminder to all that the United States stands ready to offer assistance during any emergency or crisis. Although we may be facing economic uncertainty and trouble at home, Americans are generous with their time, expertise, and money. We are standing with our ally in their time of need.

This is how we win the hearts and minds of those who call us enemy- allowing our actions to speak louder than our words. You are welcome, Mr. Ambassador. And that is to the point.

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