On Monday, December 12, 2024, the New York City Council hosted its first-ever Chanukah Celebration in the historic Council Chambers at City Hall. Organized by City Council Speaker Adrienne E. Adams, the City Council’s Jewish Caucus, and the Speaker’s Community Outreach Unit, the evening began with a kosher reception and concluded with a festive assortment of donuts, a beloved Hanukkah treat, for guests to enjoy.
Program Highlights
The formal program commenced at 5:00 PM and featured remarks from key council members and honorees, alongside musical performances and a proclamation ceremony. New York City Council Member Eric Dinowitz led the event, opening with reflections on the symbolic significance of Hanukkah lights—representing hope, resilience, and triumph over adversity.
Council Members Lynn Schulman, Julie Menin, Lincoln Restler, and Inna Vernikov, along with Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, shared inspiring messages, emphasizing unity and the importance of combating antisemitism. Former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio also attended, underscoring the importance of solidarity during challenging times.
Musical Performances and Special Guests
Joel Kaplan delivered a stirring rendition of both the U.S. National Anthem and Israel’s national anthem, Hatikvah. His powerful voice filled the historic chambers, evoking a profound sense of pride and unity. As Kaplan sang, attendees stood with reverence, some placing their hands over their hearts while others sang along softly, visibly moved by the dual expressions of patriotism and Jewish resilience. His performance set a deeply emotional tone for the evening, bridging cultures and celebrating shared values.
Later, the SAR Choir, comprised of talented students from the SAR Academy, took the stage under the skilled direction of Noah Sullivan. Their vibrant and heartfelt harmonies filled the room with joy, as they performed a medley of Hanukkah songs that celebrated light, faith, and triumph. The choir’s energy and passion captivated the audience, earning enthusiastic applause and smiles from all corners of the chamber.
Adding a delightful twist to the evening, comedian Modi brought laughter and levity with his witty anecdotes and reflections on Jewish identity and culture. Sharing humorous takes on traditional Jewish customs and modern experiences, Modi skillfully engaged the crowd, balancing lighthearted humor with a deep appreciation for his heritage. Recognized with a proclamation for his significant contributions to the Jewish community through comedy, Modi’s acceptance was met with warm applause. His characteristic charm and humor left the audience in high spirits, rounding out the celebration with a perfect blend of laughter and inspiration.
Honorees and Proclamations
The evening celebrated several distinguished honorees:
- Charlie Tebele, recognized for his contributions to the community, received a proclamation presented by Council Member Julie Menin.
- Modi, a beloved comedian, was honored for his cultural impact and representation of Jewish heritage in entertainment.
- Mark Treyger, representing the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, spoke on the importance of collaboration and community-building within the Jewish community.
Messages of Hope and Advocacy
Council Member Dinowitz highlighted initiatives to address antisemitism, including a middle school curriculum in Brooklyn aimed at fostering tolerance and understanding. He shared heartfelt reflections on the need for hope amidst current global and local challenges, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. His words resonated as a call to action for peace, understanding, and safety for all communities.
Hindy Poupko, representing the UJA Federation, delivered a moving speech about resilience and unity within the Jewish community. She commended the Council for their unwavering support, recalling moments of solidarity over the past year, including community rallies and support for hostage families.
Closing Remarks
The evening masterfully blended emotion, inspiration, and joy, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. Joel Kaplan’s heartfelt renditions set a tone of unity and pride, the SAR Choir’s vibrant performance uplifted spirits, and Modi’s humor brought a touch of lightness that resonated with the crowd. Together, these moments created a rich tapestry of celebration, reflecting the strength, resilience, and enduring spirit of the Jewish community. As the event came to a close, attendees departed with a renewed sense of connection and pride, carrying the evening’s profound message of unity and hope into their own lives.
Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide
