Press Release: Gov. Evers, First Lady Celebrate Hanukkah in Wisconsin

State of Wisconsin sent this bulletin at 12/15/2023 12:45 PM CST
Office of Governor Tony Evers
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 15, 2023
Contact: GovPress@wisconsin.gov 
 
Gov. Evers, First Lady Celebrate Hanukkah in Wisconsin
 
MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers and First Lady Kathy Evers today shared a video message wishing Wisconsinites a happy Hanukkah as families and individuals across the state celebrate the end of The Festival of Lights.

Over the last eight days, the governor and first lady have joined Wisconsin’s Jewish community for Hanukkah celebrations. On the fourth night of Hanukkah, Gov. Evers joined Chabad of Madison and Rabbi Avremel Matusof at Hilldale Shopping Center in Madison to light the nine-foot Menorah. The event featured music, fire dancers, and the gelt drop, which was made possible with the help of the Madison Fire Department. Photos of the event are here and here.

Additionally, on the fifth night of Hanukkah, Gov. Evers and the first lady also hosted a Hanukkah celebration at the Wisconsin Executive Residence with Wisconsin Department of Administration Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld and Rabbi Betsy Forester from the Beth Israel Center. This is the fifth time the governor and first lady have hosted a Hanukkah celebration at the Executive Residence. Photos of the event are available here and here.

The governor and first lady’s video message is available here, and a transcript of the video message is available below.

Hanukkah

Governor: Hey there, folks. Governor Tony Evers here. Kathy and I want to wish all those celebrating a very happy Hanukkah.

First Lady: Each year, this eight-day celebration is filled with lights, games, food, music, family, and friends.

Governor: Recognizing and honoring Hanukkah and our state’s Jewish community is something we’re proud to be a part of because celebrating diversity and embracing inclusivity is part of what makes our state the great place it is to live, work, and raise a family.

And especially recently, as we’ve seen an increase in senseless violence, hate, and antisemitic rhetoric, coming together as a community to celebrate Hanukkah is more important than ever.

First Lady: Hanukkah reminds us that through community and faith, we can find hope and light where there is darkness.

Governor: So, we hope you are taking this time to get together with your loved ones and celebrate your favorite holidays traditions.

First Lady: We wish you peace, prosperity, and joy during the Festival of Lights and always.

Governor: So, with that...

Governor and First Lady: Happy Hanukkah, Wisconsin!
 
An online version of this release is available here.
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