Morris County Comes Together at Hanukkah – Morris County, NJ

Published on December 15, 2023

County Commissioners Reaffirm Solidarity With Jewish Community

With the close of Hanukkah observances tonight, Morris County leaders are reaffirming their solidarity with the Jewish community in opposition to rising antisemitism at home and abroad since the brutal Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel.

“As our community has come together to celebrate the Festival of Lights, it has been heartening to see the warmth and support for our Jewish friends and neighbors at these events. Special thanks to Sheriff Gannon and Prosecutor Carroll for the stellar coordination with local police departments to ensure security for our residents at these joyous celebrations,” said Morris County Board of County Commissioners Director John Krickus.

The County Commissioners, Sheriff James Gannon, Prosecutor Robert Carroll and other county leaders have attended at least 17 public events, including prayer sessions, educational programs and menorah lightings since Hamas’ barbarism left 1,400 people dead, more than 200 taken hostage and spurred an ongoing war in Gaza.

The diverse range of activities in the area has strengthened community bonds in Morris County and developed public awareness of rising acts of antisemitism not witnessed since the Holocaust.

The County Commissioners publicly declared their support for Israel during an October 11 Commissioner Public Meeting.

During a subsequent meeting on Dec. 6, Commissioner Deborah Smith also shared the details of the “Stand Against Jewish Hate Blue Light Campaign,” a movement intended to spread understanding and stand against to the growing threat of antisemitism around the world.

“As the light of the menorah goes out, our prayers go out to Israel and all our Jewish friends and loved ones,” said Commissioner Deborah Smith.

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Photos

Photo 1: Commissioner Director Krickus and other commissioners joined Hanukkah on the Green hosted on the Morristown Green on Wednesday, December 13.

Photo 2: (l-r) Mayor Matt  Murello, County Commissioner Director Krickus and Assemblyman-elect Mike Inganamort attend a menorah lighting at the Chesapeake Tavern in Long Valley on Thursday, December 7.

Photo 3: Commissioner Deb Smith (first on left) joins a Hanukkah service at White Meadow Temple in Rockaway Township on Saturday, December 9.