Community members gathered Sunday evening for Richmond’s annual Chanukah menorah lighting, continuing a long-standing tradition of marking the Festival of Lights with song, prayer and the lighting of the menorah.
Hosted by Chabad of Richmond at the pier in Barbara and Jay Vincent Park, the event aims to strengthen community bonds and celebrate Jewish faith and resilience. This year’s ceremony followed the deadly mass shooting at a public Chanukah celebration on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, where authorities said gunmen opened fire during a Hanukkah event, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens in what officials have described as an antisemitic terror attack.
Earlier in the day, Rabbi Yitzchok Wagner addressed the tragedy on the Chabad of Richmond Facebook page, saying the community was “absolutely shocked and devastated.” He described the violence as “an act of hatred… aimed not only at innocent people, but at the very idea of Jewish light, Jewish presence, and Jewish pride.”
“Our response to darkness and evil is more light,” the rabbi said. “Our response to fear is unity and strength. Our response to hatred is Jewish pride, joy, and action.”
Rabbi Wagner also confirmed coordination with Richmond police to ensure safety at Sunday’s event.
Mayor Eduardo Martinez, who was unable to attend due to illness, said his office and two City Council members — Claudia Jimenez and Sue Wilson — represented the city at the ceremony.
“The community gathered during a time of reflection, with heavy hearts following recent acts of violence targeting the Jewish community in Australia,” the mayor stated. “I wish everyone a safe, peaceful, and happy Hanukkah.”
