Staff Reports
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has stepped in to advocate for the Jewish community and call out the rise in anti-Semitic behavior following the terrorist attack by Hamas on Israel in October. This attack has led to a worrying increase in anti-Semitism, with pro-Hamas agitators disrupting events and harassing Jews in the United States and around the world. As the holiday season approaches, these actions have become even more brazen, with the annual lighting of the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center being disrupted by pro-Hamas protesters.
In a shocking turn of events, the cancelation of a Hanukkah celebration in Williamsburg, Virginia has further highlighted the disturbing rise of anti-Semitism. Reports indicate that the event, which was set to take place during an art and music festival hosted by LoveLight Placemaking, was suddenly nixed. Governor Youngkin condemned the cancelation as “absurd and anti-Semitic,” urging the event organizers to reconsider their actions and proceed with the menorah lighting.
The controversy surrounding the cancelation has sparked a heated exchange between Rabbi Yossel Krantz of Chabad of Virginia, the organization sponsoring the event, and Shirley Vermillion, the organizer of LoveLight Placemaking. Krantz accused LoveLight Placemaking of politicizing the event by withdrawing their support unless a banner denouncing Israel’s actions in Gaza was displayed. He emphasized that the lighting of the menorah is a religious practice and not a political one, and therefore should not be used to conflate the religion of Judaism with the state of Israel.
In a further display of solidarity with the Jewish community, Governor Youngkin has extended invitations to participate in Hanukkah receptions and lighting ceremonies at the Virginia Capitol and in Loudoun County. Youngkin’s actions stand in stark contrast to California Governor Gavin Newsom, who has opted for a virtual tree lighting ceremony, sparking criticism and disappointment from the public.
The cancelation of these holiday celebrations, including the tree lighting ceremony in California, has raised concerns about the safety and security of events in the face of protests and disruptions. The Sacramento Regional Coalition for Palestinian Rights had planned to rally and march to the California State Capitol to call for a cease-fire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas, further complicating the situation.
Despite the clear rise in anti-Semitic behavior and the cancelations of holiday events, the Biden administration has failed to provide a meaningful response to address the issue. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre’s vague and noncommittal remarks during a press briefing left many feeling disappointed and unheard. The administration’s inability to denounce the cancelations and address the specific concerns of the Jewish community has only added to the growing unease and frustration.
In the face of troubling developments and rising tensions, Governor Youngkin’s unwavering support for the Jewish community has served as a beacon of hope and resilience. His outspoken stance against anti-Semitism and his efforts to ensure the continuation of holiday celebrations send a clear message that Virginia stands united against hate and discrimination.
