Statement from Premier Pillai commemorating the start of Hanukkah

Premier Pillai has issued the following statement:

“As the sun sets today, I extend my warmest wishes to everyone in the Jewish community celebrating Hanukkah.

Known as the Festival of Lights, Jewish families and communities will gather together each evening for the next eight days to commemorate the Maccabees’ victory over the Syrian Greek army and the miracle of a single day’s worth of oil illuminating the temple for eight nights. Symbolically, this holiday represents the triumph of light over darkness and liberation from oppression.

“Hanukkah is a joyous occasion, filled with family, foods like latkes and jelly doughnuts, gift giving, playing dreidel and telling the story of the Maccabees. It is a time to eat, be with family and enjoy the light of the menorah.

“I wish everyone who celebrates Hanukkah a wonderful and joyous holiday. Let us all share in celebrating the Yukon’s diversity and the values that bring us together as a community.

"Hanukkah sameach!”