U.S. officials and religious leaders spoke of peace and hope. national menorah writing It was held Wednesday in front of the White House to commemorate the beginning of Hanukkah.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said, “We can all benefit from the study of Torah, our duty to visit the sick, feed the poor, seek justice, and welcome the stranger.” Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas told the audience. New York Times editorial Written in honor of the holiday.
“There's a yearning for this beauty, this deep-rooted history,” he added.
“We think it will happen after October 7. Synagogue attendance soarsJewish learning and community connections. ”
Various speakers at the event referred to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has been going on for more than a year, and spoke about the need to unite in the face of anti-Semitism.
“We've accomplished a lot, but I think it's important to remember that there's still a lot of work to do to tackle anti-Semitism and combat anti-Semitism. , executive vice president of Lubavitch American Friends, because anti-Semitism is in several ways different from anti-Semitism, “another form of hatred, and requires special focus.'' Rabbi Levi Shemtov addressed the audience.
“And as I expressed just last year at an invited gathering a few hundred meters behind us, we Jews can be strong enough to help those in need in our society. So, we have to worry about anti-Semitism first. Please support us,” he continued.
“It's like being on a plane and being told to put on your own oxygen mask first, because as tempting as it may be to help others, you can't save them if you don't survive.”
Mr. Shemtov served as moderator and gave a speech that featured Biden administration ministers and Jewish elementary school students on stage. He focused on promoting unity among Jews.
“Perhaps the best antidote to combating anti-Semitism, and the most effective, is a strong, informed Judaism,” Shemtov asserted.
“If we are strong in who we are, we are more certain of our continued survival.”
