A new national initiative, “Chanukah 250,” was launched in Washington, DC, on Thursday to support Hanukkah celebrations across all 50 US states as the country marks its 250th anniversary.
The initiative, funded through American Friends of Lubavitch-Chabad, will provide grants for security, logistics, and other event needs, as well as commemorative items, including menorah kits and candle sets.
It will support events in public spaces, synagogues, community centers, campuses, and other venues.
Phil Friedman: 'History will not judge our silence kindly'
Noted philanthropist and entrepreneur Phil Friedman, chairman and CEO of technology company Computer Generated Solutions, was named the initiative's general chairman.
The initiative's main event will be the lighting of the Menorah on the White House Ellipse on December 6 at 4 p.m. Other sponsored events are planned at locations including Independence Mall, Plymouth Rock, Mount Rushmore, and Niagara Falls.
Rabbi Levi Shemtov, executive vice president of American Friends of Lubavitch-Chabad, who launched the initiative, said it aims to highlight the historic role of American Jews in the country's founding and strengthen Jewish identity amid rising antisemitism.
Friedman said he was honored to lead the initiative, adding that Americans must speak out against hatred, warning that “history will not judge our silence kindly.”