Speaking Power To Truth in International Relations
This past Wednesday, I was lucky enough to be in attendance at the Capitol Rotunda when His Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal. The event was a truly remarkable experience. Not only did the Dalai Lama speak in one of America’s most hallowed halls about the need for greater international religious freedom and a renewed commitment to the environment, but even more inspiring, every member of the congressional leadership, Republican and Democrat alike, as well as the President of the United States -- people who so often disagree with one another -- spoke with one voice telling the story of the Dalai Lama’s bravery, persistence, and promotion of a “middle way” approach to peace with China.
The most powerful speech, however, was the one delivered by former Congressional Gold Medal winner, Elie Wiesel. Professor Wiesel spoke in his remarks not only of the remarkable achievements of the Dalai Lama, but also of the importance of Congress’ choice to bestow to this humble Buddhist monk the highest civilian award our country has to offer. In making this point, Wiesel explained that upon receiving his own Congressional Gold Medal he called on all Americans to speak truth to power, this time he applauded the United States Congress for “speaking power to truth.”
I think it is important not to overlook Wiesel’s comments. He is right that all too often the United States chooses the diplomatic expediency over pure morality in questions of international relations. We must look no further than the current debate regarding the House resolution on the Armenian Genocide which looked prime to pass almost 15 years after it was first introduced but has been derailed by the large number of members withdrawing support based on worries that it would strain US and Turkey relations. A vote may now never even reach the floor.
While I recognize the importance of diplomacy and maintaining strategic relationships, Congress’ bold step to stand in the face of China (and do not be fooled, China was very unhappy) and award the Dalai Lama the Congressional Gold Medal is an important reminder that we must not assume that deferring to such relationships is always the better option. Sometimes, it is necessary instead for the United States to stand as a world superpower for a higher moral calling in international relations.