Heartbreak and Hanukkah

As we prepare to light the menorah and begin Hanukkah this evening, we were awoken by news of a horrific antisemitic attack on Jews in Sydney, Australia. Our hearts break for the families of those massacred and injured by terrorists who targeted a Hanukkah event on Bondi Beach. No one should have to fear attending a Hanukkah gathering – or any gathering – and we’re outraged by the depravity of this morning’s antisemitic attack. Read our full statement.

We stand with the Jewish community in Australia and Jews all over the world who are reeling from this senseless act of violence and tragic loss of life. We stand together, in solidarity, with everyone impacted by this depraved attack and send our prayers for healing. We also stand with all of you – knowing the impact of this tragedy on Jews worldwide.

Tragically, this wasn’t the only horrific act of gun violence in the past 24 hours. Yesterday, there was yet another school shooting at Brown University, which horrifically killed two and injured nine. We condemn this senseless act of violence and call on our elected officials to finally do something to thwart the epidemic of gun violence that has plagued our communities and schools for far too long. Enough is enough.

In this moment of anger and fear, we find light in our community and stand with all of you. Amid great and growing darkness, we have found and created light, and we look forward to continuing our work together in the new year. We stand with all of you and wish you a happy Hanukkah.

With strength, solidarity, and resilience,

Halie Soifer

CEO, Jewish Democratic Council of America