President Obama, DWS, and Others Extend Hanukkah Wishes

NJDC — December 10, 2012 – 4:47 pm | Comments (0) Add a comment

Over the weekend, many leaders around the country wished the Jewish people a Happy Hanukkah. President Barack Obama said:

Michelle and I send our warmest wishes to all those celebrating Hanukkah around the world. 

This Hanukkah season we remember the powerful story of the Maccabees who rose up to liberate their people from oppression. Upon discovering the desecration of their Temple, the believers found only enough oil to light the lamp for one night. And yet it lasted for eight. 

Hanukkah is a time to celebrate the faith and customs of the Jewish people, but it is also an opportunity for people of all faiths to recognize the common aspirations we share. This holiday season, let us give thanks for the blessings we enjoy, and remain mindful of those who are suffering. And let us reaffirm our commitment to building a better, more complete world for all.   

From our family to the Jewish Community around the world, Chag Sameach. 

Democratic National Committee Chair Representative Debbie Wasserman-Schultz (D-FL) said in her release:

Tomorrow night, Jewish families across America and around the world will join in the celebration of Hanukkah, the festival of lights.  Gathering with loved ones to recount the miracles of unexpected triumphs, we are grateful for the gifts we have been given and committed to forging a better world.

During this joyous time of year, we must not waver in our quest to brighten the days ahead for all Americans. Our leaders must come together to provide America’s families with the security they need in the year ahead.  Together, as we light the Hanukkah menorah, we have the opportunity to dedicate ourselves to the ideals of freedom and justice at the core of our great nation.  Tomorrow and throughout this festival of lights, I wish you and your families a very Happy Hanukkah.

Wasserman Schultz also tweeted a photo of her family lighting candles on the first night and a photo of her participation at the Chabad menorah lighting ceremony in Weston, FL.

Office of Management and Budget Director Jeffery Zients attended the national menorah lighting ceremony, which took place on the National Mall. Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) was in attendance as New Yorkers lit their 32-foot menorah in Central Park. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa also participated in a menorah lighting in Los Angeles.

Israel’s Ambassador to the United States Michael Oren released a video that can be viewed here or below.

Many Governors and members of Congress tweeted their best wishes for Hanukkah—and NJDC retweeted many of them. Click here to view their tweets on NJDC’s twitter feed. Senator Chris Coons (D-DE) also recorded a video message that can be viewed here or below.

And from all of us at NJDC, have a Happy Hanukkah! 

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