Hanukkah is the eight-day Jewish festival of lights, and Mayor Steve Adler has taken this opportunity to extend his warm wishes to the community.
“Happy Hanukkah to all families and their loved ones celebrating! My family and I will light the first candle of the menorah at sundown. This holiday season is a time to gather safely in thanks, appreciation and celebration of all the good for which we are thankful,” Adler tweeted.
Sunday was the first day of Hanukkah, and leaders from around the world have wished the Jewish community well.
U.S. President Joe Biden said in a tweet: “Jill and I send our warmest wishes to everyone celebrating Hanukkah in the United States and around the world. May this festival of lights bring blessings upon you and your loved ones for happiness and health. Happy Hanukkah!”
On Nov. 28, the U.S. National Menorah was lit in front of the White House.
“Hanukkah is not just a holiday, it is a time for hope, freedom and love. On behalf of the president, the first lady, the vice president and myself, Happy Hanukkah, everyone. Thank you so much for having me,” Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff told the gathered crowd as he attended the lighting.
Hanukkah in Hebrew means “dedication.” The eight-day religious holiday celebrates the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of the menorah that stayed lit despite its short supply of oil.
Biden issued a statement before the first candle of the menorah was lit. Biden said, “At its core, Hanukkah recounts a story at the heart of the human spirit – one that is inherently Jewish and undeniably American. It commemorates how even the most fragile flame can sustain a tradition and nourish the soul of a people.”
An Austin synagogue that experienced a rash of antisemitic attacks continued its celebration of the holiday.
