Premier John Horgan has issued the following statement in celebration of the start of Chanukah:  

“Today, we join members of the Jewish community here at home and around the world to celebrate the beginning of Chanukah.

“Over the next eight days and nights, families will gather to light the candles of the menorah, exchange gifts, give blessings and offer thanks for the miracles of Chanukah.

“Chanukah is rooted in a rebellion that happened more than 2,000 years ago, as the Maccabees fought religious persecution and reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. Miraculously, a lamp thought to have only enough oil for one day burned for eight days straight as the Maccabees rededicated the temple.

“To this day, the story of Chanukah serves as a powerful reminder that light will triumph over darkness, good over evil, and that freedom and courage will always prevail over fear and tyranny.  

“We have been through a lot together recently, but I believe our brightest days are ahead of us. As the nights grow longer, families will gather by the light of the menorah to share in feelings of hope and renewal for the year ahead.

“To all those celebrating Chanukah, Chag Urim Sameach!”

For Hebrew and French translations: https://news.gov.bc.ca/25823#translations