The Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks would like to invite the community to a Shine a Light on Antisemitism event on Thursday, Dec. 7. The Chanukah Menorah Lighting will begin at 5:15 p.m. at 5th and Penn Streets in Reading and is open to everyone. You’re invited to celebrate the holiday, learn more about Chanukah, and join the Federation in solidarity with our local Jewish community. There will be an invite-only reception following for local political leaders and dignitaries.
Data shows that although Jews make up less than 2% of the American population, they are among the most likely of all minority groups to be victimized by incidents of hate. Sadly, the frequency and severity of antisemitic incidents have been trending upward in recent years and even more so in the aftermath of Hamas’ terror attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. This antisemitism is exploding on college campuses; city streets in the United States, Europe, and beyond; and all over the internet; creating an atmosphere of intimidation and threat to Jews all over the world.
The Jewish Federation of Reading/Berks is the planning, coordinating, and fundraising arm of the Jewish community, and the work they do extends to the entire community regardless of race, gender, or religion. Brian Chartock, CEO said, “The support we have received from our non-Jewish peers here in Berks County has been overwhelming, and we’d like to invite the community to the menorah lighting to celebrate the holiday, learn more about Chanukah, and to show your support of our local Jewish community.”
For more information, contact Amanda J. Hornberger at 610-921-0624 or [email protected].
