Dear RJ,
Hanukkah, the festival of lights, is the time of the Jewish year when we rededicate ourselves to kindling flames of hope. But what does it really mean – what does it look like – to be a light in the darkness?
It looks like 20 synagogue advocacy coalitions in states around the country, holding their elected officials accountable for ensuring just and fair policies for refugees.
It looks like 650+ congregations around the country learning, advocating, and welcoming refugees and asylum seekers – most recently, those from Afghanistan – as new neighbors.
It looks like 2000+ Jewish clergy raising their voices from the bimah, demanding justice through letters to Congress, forging partnerships in their local communities, ensuring that refugees and asylum seekers know they are welcome.
This Hanukkah, the second of the COVID-19 pandemic, comes at a time when there are more refugees, asylum seekers, and forcibly displaced people than ever before. We now rededicate ourselves to bringing the light, and to knowing that our actions can change the world for the better.
Wishing you a Hanukkah sameach, a very happy and joyful holiday,
Mark Hetfield
President & CEO, HIAS
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