Without our Jewish communities, New York would not be the shining beacon that it is to the world. And the same light that has guided the Jewish people through generations of hope and hardship lends its brightness to our great state, inspiring us to move onward and upward — even in dark times. 

The story of Hanukkah reminds us that even one small flame can bring light to the darkest of places. But even as the holiday season illuminates our state, I’m heartbroken to see antisemitism shedding darkness on what should be a joyous and cherished time with loved ones.

I will stop at nothing to make sure Jewish New Yorkers are protected in our state. From launching America’s first-ever statewide plan to combat antisemitism and making record investments in hate crime prevention to keep communities safe today, to ensuring future generations never forget the horrors of the Holocaust, we will continue working to build a state where our Jewish neighbors can thrive for generations to come. 

To all celebrating, I wish you a very happy Hanukkah. Chag Sameach!

Ever Upward,

Gov. Kathy Hochul