Federal and provincial leaders are marking the start of Hanukkah with messages of support, reflection and solidarity, as Jewish communities begin the eight-day Festival of Lights.
In a statement released Sunday, Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged Hanukkah as a joyful celebration of faith and perseverance, while also recognizing the pain being felt following an antisemitic terror attack at a Hanukkah event in Australia.
“Over the next eight days, Jewish communities will gather to celebrate Hanukkah – a holiday that is meant to be joyous, commemorating the faith and perseverance of the Jewish people,” Carney said. “As it commences, Canadians stand in sorrow with the people of Australia and Jewish people everywhere following today’s horrific antisemitic terror attack at a Hanukkah event on Bondi Beach in Sydney – and we stand together in our determination never to bow to terrorism, violence, hatred, or intimidation.”
Carney described Hanukkah as “a time of light amidst the darkness,” reflecting on the resilience of the Jewish people and the historical struggle for faith and freedom. He also addressed the rise of antisemitism faced by Jewish Canadians, stating that the federal government stands with the Jewish community against hate and is acting with urgency.
“To the Jewish communities across Canada, as you gather with your loved ones this Hanukkah, may you take comfort in your community and faith, and may we all recognise the resiliency of the Jewish people,” Carney said. “As each Menorah candle shines, may it serve as a lasting reminder that even in times of darkness, light will prevail. Happy Hanukkah. Chag Sameach.”
Ontario Premier Doug Ford also issued a statement Sunday to mark the beginning of Hanukkah, extending greetings and expressing support for Jewish communities in Ontario and beyond.
“Tonight, at sundown, as Jewish families across Ontario and around the world gather to light the menorah, I want to extend my strong support and warmest wishes to our Jewish community this Hanukkah,” Ford said. He described the holiday as a celebration of resilience, faith and hope, noting that its message is especially meaningful in light of the events in Sydney.
“Our government will always support the right of Jewish communities here in Ontario and around the world to express their faith freely, without fear or intimidation,” Ford said. “Hanukkah’s message of light overcoming darkness reminds us of our shared responsibility to combat hate and antisemitism wherever it appears.”
Ford also reflected on the role of Hanukkah traditions in fostering connection and comfort, adding, “To everyone celebrating, may Hanukkah bring light into your homes and hearts, and may its message of hope inspire us to work toward a better future for all of Ontario. Chag Hanukkah Sameach.”
