Operation Democracy Project
The Operation Democracy Project grew out of the devastation of World War II, a world in ruins and a vast population suffering from six years of brutal conflict. Its goal was to enable ordinary Americans to influence international relations by making connections, one community to another. It was based on the desire for individuals to do something that was within their capabilities, independent of governments, to steer the world toward Peace instead of War. Operation Democracy's objective is to promote international good will on a person-to-person level.
Beginning in 1947, and under the guidance of New York City-based Operation Democracy, Inc., concerned citizens of the United States contacted their municipal Mayors and representatives, held meetings to select a citizens committee and a country in which the community wished to establish relations with a similar community in that nation. By providing details about the American community, Operation Democracy Inc. would assist in finding an overseas village of similar size or character, provide information and contacts with, and help in establishing communications with a similar committee of residents in that nation's community. The citizens committees of the two "sister communities" would then initiate a cultural exchange. Where that overseas village was in dire need as a result of war and displacement of population, the "sister community" could choose to provide direct aid to the citizens.
Locust Valley, Long Island selected the village of Sainte-Mere Eglise in Normandy, France as the "sister community" under Operation Democracy in 1947. Sainte-Mere Eglise was famously liberated by paratroopers of the American 82nd Airiborne Division on 5 and 6 June 1944, during the D-Day Invasion of Europe. Later, in 1951, a second community in Europe was selected -
Funds were raised during the years 1949 to 1953 by the Locust Valley Operation Democracy Committee through an annual Art Show.
Beginning in 1947, and under the guidance of New York City-based Operation Democracy, Inc., concerned citizens of the United States contacted their municipal Mayors and representatives, held meetings to select a citizens committee and a country in which the community wished to establish relations with a similar community in that nation. By providing details about the American community, Operation Democracy Inc. would assist in finding an overseas village of similar size or character, provide information and contacts with, and help in establishing communications with a similar committee of residents in that nation's community. The citizens committees of the two "sister communities" would then initiate a cultural exchange. Where that overseas village was in dire need as a result of war and displacement of population, the "sister community" could choose to provide direct aid to the citizens.
Locust Valley, Long Island selected the village of Sainte-Mere Eglise in Normandy, France as the "sister community" under Operation Democracy in 1947. Sainte-Mere Eglise was famously liberated by paratroopers of the American 82nd Airiborne Division on 5 and 6 June 1944, during the D-Day Invasion of Europe. Later, in 1951, a second community in Europe was selected -
Funds were raised during the years 1949 to 1953 by the Locust Valley Operation Democracy Committee through an annual Art Show.
Operation Democracy Website
Videos and Links
Locust Valley Flags for Freedom - June 13, 2022