“Presidential Message on Hanukkah”

“Presidential Message on Hanukkah”The President extends warm greetings to the Jewish community in the U.S. and worldwide as Hanukkah begins, calling it a Festival of Lights and a season of reflection and hope.He recalls the Hanukkah story:The Jewish people rose up against tyranny to reclaim their freedom of worship.After victory, they rededicated the Temple; though there was only enough oil for one night, it miraculously lasted eight days.Hanukkah is described as a thanksgiving for these miracles.The menorah is presented as:A lasting symbol of light over darkness and the triumph of good over evil.A symbol of liberty, linked to George Washington’s words to the Newport Hebrew Congregation that each person may “sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree, and there shall be none to make him afraid.”The message emphasizes that the Administration:Stands firmly with the Jewish people.Defends the right to worship freely, without fear of persecution.The flames of Hanukkah are said to symbolize:The strength and resilience of the Jewish people.The spirit guiding the United States toward a brighter future.The President draws a parallel between:The Maccabees’ victory sustained by divine grace, andThe “miracle of America” as a shining light to the world for nearly 250 years.He concludes by saying that as the country ushers in the Golden Age, he hopes the season brings peace, joy, and warmth to all who celebrate and ends with “Happy Hanukkah.”