Last week, I followed the Democratic National Convention (DNC) held in Chicago for four days. As a Syrian, I couldn’t help but reflect on the profound differences between the two nations in terms of the presidential election process. Here in the United States, democracy is the cornerstone of governance, rooted in the principles of freedom, equality, and the rule of law. It empowers citizens to have a voice, participate in the decision-making process, and ensure that the government remains accountable to the people.
This year’s DNC was but one of a series of presidential nominating conventions held every four years in the United States since 1832. Both major party conventions are held several months before the actual presidential election day (the first Tuesday of November) and the Democratic National Committee has administered the DNC since the 1852 national convention.
In Syria, under a dictatorial regime, we were, and still are, deprived of these democratic freedoms. There, the idea of open debates prior to elections is nonexistent, and the only party allowed to voice its opinion about anything is the ruling Baath Party.
This is my first time in the States for a presidential election and as I watched the speeches being given by various Democrats (including the current as well as former presidents, senators, representatives, and a wide variety of celebrities and just regular folks). I was struck by the openness of their dialogue and the diversity of the perspectives being shared. This process of public discourse and political engagement is something I deeply admire, yet it’s a concept that remains foreign in Syria. In Syria, under a dictatorial regime, we were, and still are, deprived of these democratic freedoms. There, the idea of open debates prior to elections is nonexistent, and the only party allowed to voice its opinion about anything is the ruling Baath Party. The stark contrast between these two realities is a powerful reminder of the value of democracy and the freedoms we often take for granted here in the United States.
I was also deeply touched and heartened by the patriotism on full display during the Democratic Party’s convention, particularly by the number of Republicans who have courageously turned their backs on Donald Trump despite having previously worked with him, or voted for him. Watching their speeches, I couldn’t help but think of my own country. How I wish that Bashar Assad loyalists and supporters in Syria would similarly denounce his regime and make up their minds to unite in a nationwide stand against tyranny. It would be a powerful moment if they chose to align themselves with those who seek freedom, justice, and the true well-being of Syria (the country as well as its people), rather than clinging to a regime that has brought so much suffering in its efforts to hold onto power. True patriots love their country unconditionally, and I hope that more of my fellow Syrians will decide to stand on the right side of history.
Real patriotism is not based on loyalty to a man or a regime; rather, it seeks to preserve the well-being of the nation as a whole. President Joe Biden performed a true act of patriotism when he withdrew from the race, saying, “I love the job, but I love my country more.” In contrast, Assad said, “It’s me, or I will destroy the country,” and that’s exactly what he did and continues to do.
The recent convention in Chicago showcased how democracy can bring about change, even from those who were once part of a movement they now fear is heading towards becoming an autocracy.
On November 13, 2020, Daniel I. Weiner of the Brennan Center for Law and Justice wrote that the peaceful transfer of power, particularly from one political party to another, “is the ultimate expression of the rule of law and of a society governed by the law, not by individual rulers.” After Biden won the 2020 election, Donald Trump did his best to overturn it and has declared that if he is elected again he will pardon those who participated in the Jan. 6th insurrection in an attempt to prevent the peaceful transition of power. In addition, he has vowed to get his revenge against those who have opposed him. In viewing Trump’s actions, I cannot help but compare him to Assad who for decades has imprisoned those who oppose him and protected those in Syria who flagrantly commit horrific crimes against their fellow Syrians simply because they help to keep him in power.
In reflection on the differences between democracy in the U.S. and the dictatorship in Syria, I am constantly reminded of the importance of true freedom, of holding our leaders accountable, and the power of the people’s voice. The recent convention in Chicago showcased how democracy can bring about change, even from those who were once part of a movement they now fear is heading towards becoming an autocracy. And as I look back toward Syria, I hold onto the hope that one day the same spirit of courage and commitment to truth will inspire Assad’s supporters to turn away from oppression and stand with those who seek a free and just Syria. True change begins with the willingness to break free from the past and embrace the hope of a future where every citizen’s voice will be heard and respected.
