And in the last five days, the Federation and its Jewish Community Relations Council have received over 20 emailed statements from our allies in the interfaith communities, regional and state elected officials, and civic leaders. I’m sharing a few quotes from some of the public statements here:

“The Parliament of the World’s Religions met yesterday, and of course, we lifted up our shared distress of the horrible attacks at Bondi Beach. I’m holding your community in my prayers this week. What happened near Bondi is frightening and painful, especially as Hanukkah was beginning—a time meant for light, safety, and remembrance. Please know how so many of us all around the world stand with you in grief, resolve, and care, rejecting hatred in all its forms and affirming the dignity and security of the Jewish community everywhere. May the lights of Hanukkah be a source of strength and protection in these dark moments, and may these expressions of continued friendship also be a light that gives you and your community a clear measure of both comfort and solidarity throughout.” – Dr. Michael Trice, Seattle University’s Center for Ecumenical and Interreligious Engagement

“Let me be unequivocal: antisemitic hate and violence have absolutely no place anywhere in the world, and it’s on every one of us to speak out against it. An attack on the Jewish community is an attack on all of us. My heart goes out to Jewish families in Washington state and around the world who are grieving this horrific act of terror—and yet, still, bringing light into darkness through the celebration of Hanukkah this week.” – Sen. Patty Murray

Across all of these messages, one theme was clear: we must continue to bring light in during darkness.