Winnipeg Unites With Jews After Sydney Hanukkah Tragedy

Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham joined local Jewish leaders and community members at City Hall to light the second menorah candle, sending a strong message of solidarity following Sunday’s deadly Hanukkah attack in Sydney, Australia. The ceremony came as communities around the world mourned the tragic loss of 15 lives, including a 10-year-old child, a rabbi, and a Holocaust survivor, while dozens more remain hospitalized after the attack at Bondi Beach.

Addressing the gathering of around 40 people, Mayor Gillingham said, “There's no place for hate or terror in our world. We stand with you.” He emphasized that such tragedies underline the importance of supporting one another, fostering community resilience, and ensuring that fear does not dominate how people live or celebrate their traditions. The event, held outside the mayor’s office, included heightened security measures, with police officers stationed throughout the ceremony to ensure the safety of all participants.

Local Jewish leaders stressed the significance of public gatherings like the menorah lighting in the wake of global antisemitic incidents. Rob Waldman, president of the board at Chevra Mishnayes Synagogue, reflected on how personal celebrations at home, once sufficient, now seem insufficient in a world where security concerns are a reality. “The best way to fight antisemitism is to be proud of your Judaism, to show your Judaism and to stand together,” he said. “We are part of the same community. In a real sense, I feel that I was on that beach. So it’s important to be here today.”

Dan Petrenko, artistic director of the Winnipeg Jewish Theatre, echoed the sentiment, stating that coming together strengthens the community’s identity and resilience. “That's the way we're going to bring light into this world,” he said. “It's important not to let fear dictate our ability to celebrate our holidays and embrace our culture.”

Gustavo Zentner, vice-president of the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs in Manitoba, highlighted the need for authorities to move beyond words of solidarity. He called for concrete action by law enforcement and government officials to ensure the Jewish community is recognized, protected, and supported.

Mayor Gillingham concluded the event by reflecting on the symbolic power of Hanukkah. “Light over darkness matters. May the menorah bring comfort, strength, and hope to all.” In uniting to celebrate the festival of lights, Winnipeg’s Jewish community and civic leaders sent a message that hate and terror will not break their spirit.