Remarks by
The Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M.
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
CHANUKAH AT THE MANITOBA LEGISLATIVE BUILDING
Legislative Building
Thursday, December 7
(please check against delivery)
Dear friends and fellow Manitobans – it is a pleasure to bring Chanukah’s light of hope, faith and community to the Manitoba Legislative Building.
As Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba, I would like to acknowledge that this celebration, with its origins 2200 years ago in Jerusalem, is taking place in the heart of Treaty One land and the heartland of the Red River Metis.
The story of Chanukah has been carried by the Jewish people throughout the Mediterranean world, throughout Europe and the Middle East, and eventually around the world.
When my own grandparents arrived in a bustling young city at the meeting place of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, Chanukah and the great body of Jewish learning and the traditions had already taken root here.
In times of peace and in war, in times of prosperity and in times of want, gathering to light the candles of the menorah has brought Jewish families and communities to share the warmth of tradition together.
The faith symbolized by the miracle of burning candles has brightened Jewish lives through the darkest times in history. A light in the darkness reminds us one day a dawn may come.
And now, at a time of war, polarization and rising antisemitism, I urge all Manitobans to fan the flame of understanding and compassion in their hearts.
To people of all religions and cultures let us share light. May hope, faith and community brighten your life this week and in the years ahead.
Thank you. Merci. Meegwich. Shalom
