Samantha Pohl is a Legislative Assistant at the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. She is a graduate of Brandeis University.

Today marks a momentous day in our people’s history. Fifty-eight years ago, as Shabbat approached, a group of courageous Zionists gathered to write and sign a declaration of independence proclaiming the birth of the modern state of Israel. It was no coincidence that the state would be called Yisrael, meaning “to struggle.” The struggle to win Israel’s independence fifty-eight years ago was hard fought, and the continued struggle to seek peace since has been no less arduous. Yet, it is precisely this struggle to which we recommit ourselves each year at this time.

Last night Israel celebrated Yom Hazikaron, a memorial day for those who died fighting for the State of Israel. Just as Israel transitions from a day of sadness to a day of celebration, from Yom Hazikaron to Yom HaAtzmaut, we too recall that despite the struggle Israel has endured, there is hope for peace in Israel. And to this we say, ken yehi ratzon, be this God’s will.

View Haaretz’s article, Israel Marks 58th Independence Day with Countrywide Celebrations