The Government of Canada issues a statement for Hanukkah
OTTAWA,
ON, Dec. 25, 2024 /CNW/ - This evening at
sundown, Jewish communities in Canada and around the world will welcome the
beginning of Hanukkah.
During this eight-day celebration, Jewish people gather with
family and friends to commemorate the rededication of the Second
Temple in Jerusalem after the
Maccabean Revolt, an event that took place in 200 BCE. Inside the
temple, there was only a single cruse of oil – enough for just one
day – but it miraculously burned for eight consecutive days. To
honour this miracle and the triumph of light over darkness, Jewish
families light the menorah after nightfall. They also share fried
food, such as latkes and sufganiyot, with loved
ones.
As Jewish communities prepare to celebrate Hanukkah, our
government reiterates its commitment to ensuring that the Jewish
community in Canada practise their
religion freely and safely. We will never accept any form of
antisemitism.
To that end, we recently launched Canada's first Action Plan on Combatting
Hate to better identify and prevent antisemitism. Key to this
effort is the new Canada Community Security Program, which supports
communities that are the target of hate with funding and resources
to protect themselves. The Action Plan also provides critical
funding for the memorialization of the Holocaust, including for the
construction of the new Montreal Holocaust Museum and the creation
of a National Holocaust Remembrance Program. Additionally, the
Government of Canada launched
The Canadian Handbook on the IHRA Working Definition of
Antisemitism, a vital tool to better equip Canadians in
recognizing and combatting antisemitism.
Jewish people have helped shaped Canada, and they continue to contribute in
countless, immeasurable ways today. May Hanukkah remind us of the
power of perseverance and the glimmer of hope that always shines
through. I wish all Jewish communities in Canada and around the world a celebration
filled with joy and hope.
Chag Hanukkah Sameach!
SOURCE Canadian Heritage
