Community Response to Sydney Tragedy
In response to the deadly shooting at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia, that claimed 15 lives on Sunday, the Chanukah in the Rockies initiative is broadening its scope. Organized by the Chabad Jewish Community Center of Aspen Valley, the program will now include mountain communities across the Western Slope as a gesture of solidarity.
Rabbi's Statement on Purpose
"This year, we light the menorah with even greater purpose," stated Rabbi Hirsch, director of Chanukah in the Rockies. "Terror seeks to silence us, to make us afraid, to drive us into hiding. Our answer is the answer of the Maccabees from the Chanukah story over 2000 years ago: we respond to darkness with more light. We stand proud. We refuse to back down."
Four Chabad rabbis will journey through the region, hosting celebrations in Montrose, Durango, Crested Butte, and Telluride. These events will include the lighting of a 10-foot menorah, along with live music, fresh latkes, warm beverages, and family-friendly activities.
Memorial Dedications
Each menorah lighting will honor those lost in Sunday's shooting, including Rabbi Schlanger, 10-year-old Matilda Chisholm, and Holocaust survivor Alex Kleytman.
"When I heard the news, my first thought was: that could have been us. That could have been any of our events," remarked Rabbi Hirsch. "Rabbi Schlanger's own words guide us now. When asked how Jews should respond to rising antisemitism, he said: 'Be more Jewish, act more Jewish, and appear more Jewish.' That's exactly what we're doing."
Event Details and Safety
The celebrations are free and open to all, with no restrictions based on background or affiliation. To ensure attendee safety, Chanukah in the Rockies has coordinated with local authorities for increased police presence at each gathering. Following the Crested Butte event on Sunday, upcoming schedules are:
- Montrose: Tuesday, Dec. 16, at 4:30 p.m., Community Room at the Public Safety Complex
- Durango: Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 4:30 p.m., Strater Hotel
- Telluride: Thursday, Dec. 18, at 4:30 p.m., Heritage Plaza at Mountain Village
Broader Impact
"Everyone should be able to celebrate Chanukah to the fullest, no matter where they are," said Rabbi Mendel Mintz, Director of Chabad Aspen Jewish Community Center. "In areas with limited Jewish infrastructure, these gatherings gain deeper significance. They foster connection, pride, and a stand against hatred."
The public menorah campaign, initiated by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson in 1973, continues to grow globally, with over 15,000 public menorahs planned for 2025.
