Lauderhill Mayor Hosts Vigil for October 7th
Mayor Denise Grant of Lauderhill, Florida, hosted a moving candlelight vigil commemorating October 7, bringing together Jewish community leaders, members and supporters to honor the victims of the tragic attacks in Israel, remember those whose lives were lost, and stand in solidarity with the Jewish community.
The gathering served as a solemn moment of reflection, prayer, unity, and remembrance. Through heartfelt prayers and passionate speeches, the speakers underscored the importance of preserving the memory of the victims, supporting the families affected by the tragedy, and continuing to stand strong against antisemitism while promoting peace and understanding.
Mayor Grant’s hosting of the vigil reflected the importance of civic leadership and community solidarity during a time of remembrance. By bringing community members together, the event provided an opportunity to honor the victims and reaffirm the bonds that unite Lauderhill’s diverse community.
Special recognition goes to Rabbi Aron Lieberman of Chabad of Inverrary, whose community was represented at the vigil by his sons-in-law, Rabbi Levi Chanowitz and Rabbi Yossi Lebovics. Their participation helped bring a meaningful spiritual presence to the gathering.
Also deserving of recognition is Rabbi Yaniv Moryosef of Moshiach Center, whose participation contributed to the evening’s message of faith, remembrance, and hope.
Evan Goldman of the Jewish Federation of Broward County likewise spoke to those gathered, reflecting upon the importance of communal support and solidarity in honoring the victims of October 7.
Special appreciation is extended to Rabbi Chaim Rosenstein, Jewish Liaison for the City of Lauderhill, for coordinating the event and helping bring the community together for this important occasion. His efforts helped create a space for reflection, prayer, and meaningful expressions of support.
The passionate speeches delivered by Mayor Grant, Rabbi Levi Chanowitz, Rabbi Yaniv Moryosef, Evan Goldman, and Rabbi Chaim Rosenstein, and the singing by Rabbi Yossi Lebovics were central to the spirit of the vigil. Each participant helped reinforce the importance of remembering the lives lost, standing with the Jewish people, and ensuring that the significance of October 7 will never be forgotten.
As Rabbi Rosenstein emphasized “You don’t need to be Jewish to stand against antisemitism”.
The community extends its sincere gratitude to Mayor Denise Grant, Rabbi Aron Lieberman, Rabbis Levi Chanowitz and Yossi Lebovics, Rabbi Yaniv Moryosef, Evan Goldman, and Rabbi Chaim Rosenstein for their participation, passionate words, song, and contributions to this meaningful evening of remembrance.
