The National Menorah Lighting near the White House took place Sunday under increased security following a deadly attack on a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, that left 15 people dead. The event was organized by Chabad, which also hosted the Sydney gathering that was targeted. Rabbi Levi Shemtov led the lighting and said the ceremony would continue as a sign of resilience in the face of violence. "That's our answer to what happened in Sydney," Shemtov stated, as reported by FOX 5 DC. "Our mission in this world is to bring illumination and warmth, even when it's tough," he added.
Reflecting the increased security concerns, guests attending the National Menorah Lighting were required to secure tickets online in advance, although they were available at no charge. Among the attendees were US Commerce Secretary Howard W. Lutnick, who took part in the ceremony dedicated to the victims of the Sydney shooting, according to COLlive. Celebrations included performances by The 8th Day and The US Air Force Band, with Montana Tucker, a social media influencer with a significant following, among the highlights. The tragic events nonetheless overshadowed a holiday known for its public observance, casting a solemn tone over the festivities.
The tradition of public menorah lightings goes back over fifty years, initiated by the Chabad Rebbe Menachem M. Schneerson in 1973 as a means to encourage Jewish engagement and the celebration of Hanukkah. Now a signature event for Chabad, these lightings have historically included local officials and have transcended religious boundaries to become a part of the wider holiday season in many cities.
However, the Sydney attack represents a stark contrast to the spirit of the festival known for its illumination of public spaces, standing out as a grim reminder of the ongoing pattern of violence against Jewish communities. The event in D.C. thus took on a layer of defiance, with a spokesperson for Chabad stating, "It's moments like these that we need more light, more energy, more confidence," as The Times of Israel noted. "Jews need to stand strong and tall. That's the call to action that Rabbi Eli Schlanger, the Chabad rabbi murdered in today's attack, lived by."
