Premier David Eby has issued the following statement celebrating the start of Chanukah:

“More than two millennia ago, a small band of Jewish freedom fighters known as the Maccabees rebelled against religious persecution and reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. A lamp used by the Maccabees remained lit for eight days, though it only had oil for one.

“Today at nightfall, Jewish families in British Columbia and around the world will begin celebrating Chanukah, also known as the Festival of Lights. In the darkness of winter, the candles of the menorah will burn brightly for eight days.

“Friends and families will gather to light candles, exchange blessings and share holiday gifts, while celebrating the story of Chanukah and its message of courage, hope and light.

“This year’s celebrations again come at a painful time for the Jewish community as we are seeing a rise in antisemitic incidents here and around the world since the terrorist attacks of Oct. 7, 2023. Earlier this year, a deliberate fire was set in the doorway to the Schara Tzedeck synagogue in Vancouver. Jewish people in B.C. have at times felt unsafe at school, on campus, at work and when gathering as a community.

“To confront hate and antisemitism, we must learn lessons from the past to ensure the horrors are never again repeated. That is why our government is working with the Jewish community to make Holocaust education mandatory for all secondary school students in the province. As well, the willful promotion of antisemitism has been added to the hate crimes policy of the B.C. Prosecution Service. We have also launched the Anti-Hate Community Support Fund to help protect synagogues, community centres and other gathering places from hateful graffiti and other despicable acts.  

“The story of Chanukah is a reminder of the resilience and perseverance of the Jewish people throughout history.

“I wish everyone celebrating a happy Chanukah. May light always triumph over darkness. Chanukah Sameach.”