COURAGE is the ability to do something that you know is difficult or dangerous or unpopular. It is the mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. Its derivation from the Latin word “cor” (“heart”) reinforces that courage can be found in one’s heart.

In our world today, new challenges are bringing forth unprecedented situations. From pandemics to unexpected wars, from new examples of social inequity to intolerance and bigotry, to record-high levels of antisemitism. The need has never been greater to be an “upstander” rather than a “bystander” in the face of violence, bullying, hatred, terror, or divisiveness.

Courage is the key to creating a more compassionate, kind, and unified society. Each one of us plays an active role through our daily choices. If we are inspired to be courageous in making the right choices, we will also inspire others. Through this chain reaction, we will create a true culture of courage. National Day of Courage unites an entire nation behind the common goal of championing courage, providing a strong and robust support network, which will activate more courageous choices to stand together against hate. Our strength is in numbers.

At Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF), we are inspired every day by the endless courage of the young men and women who serve to protect the Jewish people from constant threats. FIDF created the National Day of Courage to take our inspiration from them and activate this intrinsic trait that each and every one of us possesses in our heart, regardless of age, ethnicity, gender, geography, religion, or background. On this day, we recognize the bold actions of everyday people who exemplify courage, and as a global community, commit to choosing deliberate acts of courage every day.

Each of us plays a role in shaping our world for future generations while simultaneously making today better than yesterday. Every courageous choice we make has a compounding effect on driving a culture of courage by inspiring others. For today and tomorrow, be inspired by and inspire others to make the courageous choice to always do what’s right. It’s the best way to foster a world where we can all live freely and united.

Congratulations on taking the first step to learn about the importance of National Day of Courage. Next, join our social media movement by sharing your personal story of courage. Use the hashtag #CouageLivesHere. Recognize those who inspire you through their courage by tagging them. You can also post our statement of courage to commit to choosing courage.