One Comment to “Happy Hanukkah”

1. Ralph Ginsberg says...

   Dear Ralph,

   Tonight, as we mark the first night of Hanukkah—the Festival of Lights—we do so amid profound darkness.

   Jewish communities around the world are grieving and are rightly outraged following the horrific antisemitic massacre during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, where at least 15 people, including children, were brutally murdered and dozens more wounded. What should have been a moment of light and joy was instead shattered by yet another act of Jew-hatred.

   This is not the first time the Jewish people have been forced to light candles in the shadow of violence—and yet, our light unto the nations must and always will endure.

   As we kindle the flames of the menorah, we recall the bravery and perseverance of the Maccabees, who refused to surrender their Jewish identity in the face of oppression and persecution.

   It’s a story that echoes throughout Jewish history—and remains painfully relevant today.

   In every generation, the Jewish people have faced familiar threats: attacked by ruthless enemies, targeted with dangerous hate, and forced to defend who we are. Yet, just as we have for thousands of years, we choose life and continue to overcome the forces who would seek to eliminate us.

   That’s because proud and courageous people like you refuse to look away, refuse to be silent, and refuse to let hatred define us. You step up and fight for a safe and thriving Jewish future, one where all Jews can live openly and without fear. That’s the future American Jewish Committee (AJC) is working to shape every day.

   AJC knows that the challenges we face are global, and they demand a global response. Through trusted partnerships with leaders around the world in more than 110 countries, AJC will continue to confront the deadly scourge of antisemitism, strengthen Israel’s security, and work tirelessly to protect Jewish communities, so that the horrors we witnessed today do not happen again.

   This Hanukkah, we are especially grateful to have you standing with us. At this critical time for Jews everywhere, your solidarity sends a powerful message.

   Just as the light of the Hanukkah candles grows stronger each night, so too does the strength and spirit of the Jewish people with each passing generation. And AJC is proud to provide you with the tools and the platform to contribute to this enduring legacy.

   On behalf of AJC, I wish you a meaningful Hanukkah surrounded by family and friends. May the memories of the victims in Sydney always be for a blessing, and may we be guided by the courage of those who came before us as we work to shape a safer and brighter tomorrow for the Jewish people.

   Am Yisrael Chai,

   Bobby Lapin
   AJC President

   Reply

   On December 14, 2025 at 5:45 pm · #

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