At the White House Hanukkah event, Doug Emhoff, the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, emphatically addressed the growing issue of antisemitism both domestically and globally. Emhoff, who is notably the first Jewish spouse of a vice president in the United States, expressed his profound concern over the sense of isolation and suffering felt by the Jewish community in America, particularly in light of the current Israel-Hamas conflict.
A Message of Hope and Resilience
In his address, Emhoff empathized with the Jewish community, acknowledging their feelings of being “alone” and “hated.” Despite these challenges, he conveyed a message of hope and resilience, attributes that he noted have always been central to the Jewish experience and the story of Hanukkah. His words aimed to reassure the community of their strength and endurance through difficult times.
Administration’s Solidarity with the Jewish Community
Emhoff reinforced the Biden administration’s dedication, promising the Jewish community that President Joe Biden, Vice President Harris, and the entire administration are firmly in support. His statement strongly underscored the administration’s stance against antisemitism and its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and rights of the Jewish population in the United States.
Criticism of College Presidents
Emhoff expressed disapproval of the recent statements made by university leaders in Congress. He denounced their inability to clearly label calls for Jewish genocide as acts of antisemitism. Stressing the importance of moral certainty, Emhoff underscored the necessity for a clear and definitive denouncement of antisemitism, whether it manifests as discrimination against individuals due to their Jewish heritage or as hostility towards Israel rooted in anti-Jewish sentiment.
Support for Israel
In his remarks, Emhoff also touched upon the Biden administration’s support for Israel, particularly in its military efforts and in securing the release of hostages held since the October 7 attacks by Hamas and other militant groups. This part of his speech underscored the administration’s stance on Israel’s right to defend itself and its efforts in international diplomacy.
The Tradition of the National Menorah
The annual lighting of the national menorah, a tradition upheld since 1979, is organized by the American Friends of Lubavitch. This ceremony represents more than just the Hanukkah festivities; it’s a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the Jewish community, particularly during challenging times.
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