As Chanukah begins this evening, my heart is heavy. We are holding the Jewish community of Australia in our thoughts following the tragic and senseless violence at Bondi Beach. What should be a time of gathering, reflection, and light has been overshadowed by grief and fear.

Over the past two years, since the horrors of Oct 7, we have held in our hearts the hostages who remained in captivity in Gaza & the families who waited for their safe return. In particular, we honored the memories of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Itai Seif, & all those w/ connections to Highland Park, IL.

I am horrified by the killing of two Israeli Embassy staff members in DC last night and condemn this vicious act of antisemitism. My thoughts are with the heartbroken families and colleagues of Yaron and Sarah.

As we keep all who have been impacted by the LA Fires as well as the incredible first responders in our hearts, we as a community know the importance of swift, appropriate support during a time of crisis. Here are some suggestions: lnkd.in/gA5WB73C
#LAFires
Photo: DavidSwanson/AFP

Wishing you and those you love much joy, peace, unity and warmth during this special season. Hanukkah Sameach! Merry Christmas! Heri za Kwanzaa! #HappyHolidays

Today was a great kick-off to the Strong Cities Network's Hate, Polarization and Extremism Prevention Academy's 1:1 City Meetings. Pleased to be co-leading this national effort with former Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto helping U.S. cities address hate and targeted violence at the local level.