The Main Line Times & Suburban on how this Hanukkah demands vigilance against antisemitism:

For too long our messages at Jewish holidays have been focused on issues other than the celebrations themselves.

Antisemitism has been on the rise in America and around the world for years now, and we and many others have been sounding the alarm during that time.

Jews are in the midst of their eight-day Hanukkah celebration, which began Thursday night, but we certainly don’t blame anyone for feeling less than festive during this Festival of Lights.

There was trepidation among Jewish communities well before the horrific Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel and the events that followed. Jewish houses of worship have been attacked, sometimes with deadly consequences. The tragedy of Oct. 7 took place on Simchat Torah, normally one of the most joyous Jewish holidays. Hamas terrorists chose that sacred date to engage in unspeakable acts of cruelty against innocents.

Jews around the world were shaken to their core as the one place on the globe where they felt sure that they can find refuge was viciously attacked, with people brutalized in their own homes and communities. (It is important to note that antimuslim hate has also been on the rise since the beginning of the Israel-hamas conflict. Calling for an end to hate and antisemitism can and must be synonymous with calling for an end to all forms of hatred and bigotry.)

We call on all people, regardless of their stance on the situation in Gaza, to express their views in a peaceful, respectful manner. There is no excuse for engaging in intimidation, or worse, of anyone based on their identity, ethnicity or point of view. Traditionally Jews place menorahs in their windows so the lights may be seen by passersby. Public menorah lightings are common as well. These practices remind us that Jews will not give in to fear or let others’ vitriol halt their celebration.

We should all be free to practice our faith in peace. May the Hanukkah candles help to bring lasting light and enlightenment to a world that badly needs it.