Hanukkah at the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office

Hanukkah at the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office
Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez continues the noble and inspiring tradition of his predecessors. Under his leadership, a celebratory pre-Hanukkah event was held in Brooklyn at the Tillary Hotel Ballroom. The evening became a vibrant symbol of unity, light, and mutual respect, a sign of sincere solidarity on the part of the District Attorney's Office.
Brooklyn, home to one of the largest Jewish communities outside of Israel, has reaffirmed its commitment to religious freedom, safety, and support for all communities. In anticipation of the bright, warm, and wonderful holiday of Hanukkah, security measures have been enhanced through the efforts of the District Attorney's Office and the New York City Police Department. This is especially important during the challenging and unsettling holiday season.
The event began with a moving film screening, in which office staff shared the meaning of Hanukkah to them—a holiday of light, hope, resilience, and spiritual triumph. They discussed the symbolism of the menorah, whose flame represents the victory of light over darkness, faith over fear, and life over despair. Hanukkah is a time to be together, to rejoice in miracles, and to feel the warmth of human hearts. Alexander Gurevich, Director of Public Relations for the Kings County District Attorney's Office, played a special role in organizing the evening. Thanks to his efforts, the atmosphere was warm, inspiring, and filled with a spirit of goodwill. Guests were able to ask questions and take photos with the District Attorney.
Eric Gonzalez delivered a welcoming speech, speaking about the profound spiritual significance of Hanukkah and praising the dedicated work of the office staff. He emphasized that New York is a city of freedom, where people of all political views and nationalities have the right to preserve their traditions and holidays, and that the authorities' primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of those praying in synagogues and visiting Jewish and other religious centers. Eric Gonzalez emphasized that expressions of hatred and the targeting of Jews are unacceptable.
Rabbi Joseph Beyda noted the special significance of the event amid rising anti-Semitism, which makes the current time in America a troubling one for Jewish communities. Yet, the very act of lighting the Hanukkah candles is a small miracle of courage—a light that defies the darkness. Beyda reminded everyone that America is a blessed land of religious freedom, a destination for people from all over the world, and spoke of the Jewish people's contributions to the economy, science, and culture.
In a festive atmosphere, Eric Gonzalez congratulated those present on Hanukkah and presented the Rabbi Moses Weiser certificate of honor.
The ceremony was masterfully hosted by Max Goldstein, Assistant District Attorney for Kings County. Guests included Mikhail Novakhov, a member of the Assembly who actively advocated for the release of the hostages taken in Israel on October 7; Richie Taylor, a police public affairs representative and a 9/11 hero; Fred Kreisman, Commissioner, Community Affairs in the administration of New York City Mayor Eric Adams; Mark Meyer, Appel-Founder, The Bridge Multicultural & Advocacy Project; and Sergey Chuprik, an employee of the New York City Comptroller's Office. Also in attendance were distinguished rabbis, representatives of Jewish organizations, police, students, community leaders, and representatives of various religious faiths.
The evening became a true celebration of light, human dignity, and hope. Despite the alarm and protests, it was a reminder to everyone that unity, respect, and mutual support are the foundation of a healthy society. The performances inspired the guests and gave them a sense of confidence in the future.
The musical accompaniment added a special solemnity to the event. Cantor Yecheskel Brecher and Jeremy Lubin performed magnificently, filling the hall with melodies of light, faith, and spiritual uplift.
Marina Lagunova