A Message on Sydney

Statement from Jeremy Burton, CEO, Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston:

As we enter the holiday of Chanukah, which begins this evening, we are horrified by the news out of Sydney, Australia, where a Chabad Chanukah party was targeted in a terrorist attack. While details are still emerging, we know that at least 11 people were murdered and 60 injured.

Chanukah is a holiday celebrating defiance and resilience. Two thousand years ago our ancestors stood up to Greek occupiers and resisted assimilation. To this day we openly and publicly celebrate this week — a miracle of resilience — and we do so publicly, shining a light in the dark to declare our Jewish pride.

Tonight, and for the next 8 nights, we celebrate the enduring thriving of the Jewish people. We refuse to be deterred by antisemitism in all its forms. We appreciate the solidarity and support of our civic leaders who understand that it is society’s obligation, not ours, to protect our gatherings and our safety. Our hearts are with the families of those who were taken from us in Sydney today. Our prayers are with those who were injured — both physically and psychologically. 

In their honor, and in the honor of thousands of years of Jews standing up to tyranny, all the way back to the Maccabees, we will gather tonight — in places public and with our families — to celebrate with joy and to commit ourselves to the ongoing work of vibrant, proud, resilient Jewish community.

Jeremy Burton
Chief Executive Officer, JCRC of Greater Boston