On March 17, 2025, the world observes the first yahrzeit of Senator Joseph Lieberman, a prominent figure in American politics who passed away in 2024. Known for his commitment to civility and bipartisan cooperation, Lieberman’s legacy continues to resonate in today’s increasingly divisive political landscape.
Lieberman’s life was rooted deeply in his upbringing and faith. Born to a Jewish family, his experiences shaped his understanding of religion and politics, leading him to differentiate himself in a capital often rife with ambition and self-interest. His father, Henry, faced hardships during the Great Flu Pandemic which shaped his perspective, while his mother, Marcia, instilled the emotional resonance of Judaism in his life. This intertwined sense of faith and duty guided Lieberman’s public service.
Throughout his career, Lieberman demonstrated a remarkable dedication to his beliefs. He was known for his observance of Shabbat even during his time in the Senate. In cases where critical votes fell on Friday nights or Saturdays, he would walk several miles to the Capitol rather than drive, showcasing his commitment not only to his faith but to the respect for his obligations to the American people.
In keeping with his values, he often quoted the Hebrew writer Ahad Ha’am: “More than the Jews have kept the Sabbath, the Sabbath has kept the Jews.” This philosophy was indicative of how Lieberman viewed his faith as a source of strength, particularly in tumultuous political times.
Lieberman’s political career reached its peak when he became Al Gore’s running mate in the 2000 presidential election, marking him as the first Jewish-American to be nominated on a major party’s ticket. This was a pivotal moment, as the election ultimately culminated in one of the closest and most contentious in U.S. history. Rather than succumb to bitterness, Lieberman accepted the outcome with grace, stating, “America is a great country” and emphasizing the importance of working through differences without resorting to civil unrest.
In addition to his role in the 2000 election, Lieberman left a lasting mark on several legislative efforts, driven by an abiding belief in cross-party cooperation. He worked on significant initiatives addressing civil rights, homeland security and environmental protections. He was a leading Democratic voice in supporting the resolution authorizing the first Gulf War, as well as advocating for the creation of the Department of Homeland Security following the September 11 attacks.
Moreover, Lieberman was pivotal in the repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell,” ensuring equal rights for LGBTQ+ service members. His approach to civil rights was also poignantly reflected in his lifelong commitment to civil liberties and human rights, demonstrating a rare capacity for extending compassion across partisan lines.
The new documentary, “Centered: Joe Lieberman,” highlights his life and legacy. Released around the anniversary of his passing, the film captures Lieberman’s insistence on civility and discussion across ideological divides. According to Rob Schwartz, former chief of staff for Lieberman, the documentary explores the commitment to enhancing civics education and fostering discussions about democracy and bipartisanship. Schwartz expressed that Lieberman valued these themes deeply, believing in the importance of teaching civics in secondary education.
“He did not want to do it as a vanity project,” Schwartz noted, emphasizing Lieberman’s desire for the focus to be on the ideals rather than his personal narrative.
Lieberman’s ability to navigate political waters while remaining true to his principles is perhaps best illustrated by his friendships with Republican Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham. Dubbed the “Three Amigos,” this trio often modeled an amiable approach to politics, showcasing how deep personal connections could flourish even amidst political disagreement. These friendships not only highlight Lieberman’s bipartisan efforts but also his personal warmth, humor, and genuine respect for all individuals regardless of their political affiliation.
Beyond the political work, Lieberman cherished his family life. His wife, Hadassah, shared his values and supported his public service with unwavering grace. Their daughter, Hani, recently welcomed a child named Yosef, honoring her father's legacy in a very personal way.
Lieberman’s influence lingers in a modern political climate that often strays far from the civility and respect he exemplified. His call for bipartisan cooperation remains vital as contemporary America grapples with deeply rooted divisions. The documentary serves as a timely reminder of Lieberman’s teachings and provides insight into his values, which, at their core, revolved around regard for fellow Americans.
The initial release of “Centered” has sparked renewed conversations about Lieberman’s vision of political discourse. Scheduled to be featured in Regal Cinemas on March 18 and 19, the film has garnered anticipation from both admirers and advocates of civil dialogue, with viewers keen to reflect on a time when political engagement was characterized by respect for differing viewpoints.
In reflecting on Joseph Lieberman’s life, many express a longing for more leaders who reflect his commitment to moral integrity and civil discourse. On this yahrzeit, as families gather to light candles in his memory, Lieberman’s enduring hopes for a united America remind us all to strive for kindness and understanding above all else.
