Israel Forever Foundation promotes 'Declaration Day' initiative highlighting Israel’s founding amid rising global antisemitism

As Israel continues to face growing international criticism and rising antisemitism following the Hamas attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, CEO of the Israel Forever Foundation, Elana Heideman, is calling for a renewed global emphasis on historical truth through a new initiative titled “Declaration Day.”

Speaking with Christian journalist Paul Calvert, Heideman said the campaign focuses on May 14, the day of Israel’s establishment as an independent state in 1948, and aims to broaden public recognition of its historical and symbolic significance.

“We are cementing this day in public awareness through a global campaign to make sure that the historicity of this one day does not get swallowed up by the propaganda and lies that have been built against Israel,” she said.

Throughout the interview, Heideman repeatedly emphasized the charter of Israel Forever Foundation, an organization that develops and promotes experiential learning opportunities aimed at strengthening personal connections to Israel as an integral part of Jewish life and identity. She said it is important to educate both Jews and Christians about the legal, diplomatic, and biblical foundations behind the rebirth of the Jewish state.

Heideman noted that in recent years, “Declaration Day” initiatives have expanded from social media activism into diplomatic recognition within the Knesset, in Washington, D.C., and even at the United Nations through Israel’s ambassador, Danny Danon.

“It is recognized that the Jews are the indigenous people of this land, and that this is where the Jewish nation was born,” she told Calvert, adding that modern rhetoric often ignores the Jewish people’s ancestral connection to the land stretching back thousands of years.

The interview also explored the spiritual dimension of support for Israel among Christians worldwide. Heideman said churches, congregations and international ministries are increasingly joining the effort, with some even incorporating prayers for Israel specifically on May 14.

At the heart of her message was a warning about the current cultural climate and the spread of antisemitism worldwide.

Specifically addressing reactions to the Oct. 7 massacre, Heideman said there is often little sympathy for the victims themselves, or for Israel more broadly, noting, “What we’re seeing instead is the siding with those who committed the evil atrocity. This is a dangerous sign for the future.”

Despite the challenges, Heideman remains convinced that education and public engagement must continue.

“We’re not going to defeat antisemitism. We’re not going to get rid of it. All we can do is educate more and more people to have an increased respect for the Jew, Jewish faith, Jewish history, Jewish heritage.”

The interview offers listeners a passionate and detailed perspective on Israel’s modern rebirth, the growing battle over historical narratives, and why many believers see Declaration Day as both a political and spiritual statement for this generation.