Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality is Renaming the Azrieli-Kaplan Intersection “Democracy Square”

The Voice of Chandigarh | Travel Trade Reporter :

There are two reasons why we decided to rename this intersection ‘Democracy Square.’ First, in the State of Israel’s 75th year, it has become abundantly clear that democracy is not to be taken for granted. We want to remind ourselves of that. Second, we want to acknowledge the tireless resolve of those who have gathered here for 28 consecutive weeks in the spirit of democracy. One of the most beautiful and tremendous humans can do is come together in pursuit of common, unifying values. We hope that in the future, years after this threat to our democracy has dissipated, this will serve as a tangible reminder of a period in our nation’s history when thousands of people came together with determination and perseverance to fight for the values outlined in our Declaration of Independence — the values that comprise the foundation of the society we want to live in and want our children to thrive in.”

The social and political upheaval that has characterized the State of Israel in recent months has reverberated through the very fabric of our city, flooding its streets and squares with protestors. The public space in our city serves as a place for freedom of expression and assembly — a platform for protest and civic engagement.

For many decades, Yitzhak Rabin Square served as a national hub for assembly, celebration, and protest. However, due to ongoing infrastructure projects in the area, Yitzhak Rabin Square has faded from prominence in recent years. Meanwhile, “Democracy Square,” situated near government institutions, a military base, and the city’s main entranceway, has emerged as a space synonymous with freedom of expression, activism, and democracy. The location is the intersection of Eli’ezer Kaplan St., Giv’at HaTah̠moshet St., and Menah̠em Begin Rd.

On this occasion, we would like to emphasize Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality’s steadfast commitment to promoting the values of equality, freedom, and democracy. In December 2022, a 36-meter-long banner featuring the text of the Declaration of Independence was hung on the city hall building, visually illustrating our commitment to democratic ideals. A few months later, in March 2023, to mark Democracy Week, a giant, 80-meter-long sign reading “Non-stop Democracy” was spray painted onto the Shlomo Lahat Promenade.