Hanukkah and Cancel Culture

Including Hanukkah in your holiday celebrations isn’t “taking a side” in the Israel-Palestine conflict.

It’s deeply disturbing to hear that some municipalities and organizations are canceling Hanukkah celebrations or removing menorahs from holiday displays for fear of appearing to side with Israel in the current conflict.

So let me be crystal clear: as an American Jew I am not responsible for the actions of the state of Israel and neither is any other Jewish person.

Weaponizing a Jewish religious holiday because of the Israel-Palestine conflict only serves to fuel anti-Jewish bigotry and hatred.

Hanukkah, also known as the festival of lights, begins at sundown on Thursday December 7. I will be making my beloved feta, artichoke, leek and mint latkes to celebrate and will continue to pray for peace & light during these dark times.

🕊 My work focuses on bridge-building, cultural humility, and shared humanity. Antisemitism and navigating difficult conversations are two of my signature speaking topics. If I can help your team, organization or university, please reach out!

Image description: Illuminated menorah. Image credit: https://rossingcenter.org/judaisms/hanukkah/