Shine a Light on Antisemitism : Dispel the Darkness
As we approach Hanukkah, with antisemitism on the rise, Jewish communities across North America are banding together to counter this darkness with light: the light of knowledge, of unity, of friendship, and of shared traditions, values, and experiences.
The Week of Hanukkah will be the catalyst for launching an ongoing effort to Shine A Light on antisemitism in all its modern day forms. We will be encouraging virtual moments for people to shine their own light of support - whether it be a public square, your front porch, outside your office, a place of worship, or online. A light not to be held to the chest in remembrance, but held high as a declarative gesture that light lives within you and is on the march.
Here in Charleston, this work goes on year-round through the work of the Remember Program and our Jewish Community Relations Council. This Hanukkah, we are partnering with organizations across South Carolina to bring you opportunities to Shine your own Light in opposition to antisemitism and in support of our community.
Local opportunities:
Join us on November 29th at 6:00 pm for the State House Menorah Lighting, in Columbia, featuring Dr. Deborah Lipstadt. We encourage all Charleston Jewish community members to attend if they are interested, either virtually or in person.
On December 2nd at 6:00 PM, along with Columbia and other communities across the state, we will host a Shine a Light on Antisemitism virtual program featuring local elected officials, community leaders and interfaith partners to shine a light on the issue of antisemitism and hate. In advance of the event, you will be able to pick up lantern making kits at your local organizations. After the virtual program, we will encourage community members to walk outside with their lanterns and share on social media why they are choosing to participate in the Shine a Light on Antisemitism program. This event is free of charge. Register for the program here. For instructions on assembling a DIY Shine a Light Lantern click here.