Organizers are expecting over 500 Jewish New Yorkers and allies to attend the protest, which falls on the two-month anniversary of Israel’s current genocidal assault of Gaza and Hamas forces’ attack on October 7, as well as the first night of Hanukkah. The protest is being led by Rabbis 4 Ceasefire, an ad hoc group organized to oppose Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, and is co-organized by Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, Jewish Voice for Peace, IfNotNot and Shoresh. Organizers are encouraging people to bring their own menorahs for the protest at 5pm Eastern time.P
r“Tonight marks the first night of Chanukah. What is supposed to be a holiday falls exactly two months after Hamas’ horrific October 7th attack, meaning it also marks two months of Israel’s ongoing horrific assault on Gaza, which escalates every day,” said Sophie Ellman-Golan, communications director for Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, in a statement to Truthout.
“It has been too much to bear, watching the death toll rise daily in our name, funded by our tax dollars. It feels impossible to celebrate, and essential that we come together as a Jewish community, with our neighbors and allies.”