Chicago’s Jewish Mayor Lights Chabad’s Menorah

A historic event took place on the third night of Chanukah, when the City of Chicago’s first Jewish Mayor, Rahm Emanuel, attended Chabad of Downtown Chicago’s annual menorah lighting ceremony.

The ceremony was held at the Daley Plaza, Chicago’s premier civic center and one of the city’s architectural highlights. A large crowd gathered at the plaza anticipating to participate in the ceremony, while enjoying hot potato latkes, and jelly doughnuts.

In attendance was the Consul General of Israel to Chicago and the Midwest Roey Gilad, Alderman Michele Smith, Illinois State Senator Ira I. Silverstein, and his wife Alderman Debra Silverstein.

Rabbi Meir Chai Benhiyoun, Director of Chabad in Downtown Chicago, who hosts the ceremony every year, welcomed all those present on behalf of the Lubavitcher Rebbe and the Jewish Community. He then introduced the Mayor to speak. The Mayor shared his feelings about the importance and significance of freedom and faith, and its impact on the city.

Accompanying the Mayor to light the first candle of the giant 30 feet tall and 18 feet wide menorah, was Levi Yitzchok Benhiyoun. Levi had previously met the Mayor when he won a national essay contest, and was honored to participate at the menorah lighting ceremony on the White House lawn, led by then Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel. The second and third candle were lit by the Consul General of Israel and the Regional Director of Chabad of Illinois Rabbi Daniel Moscowitz.

One of the highlights was when the Mayor handed out chocolate Chanukah gelt to the children present. Throughout the event the atmosphere was warm and happy, as jokes were being shared, some by the Mayor himself.

Contributed to the success of the event was the work and talent of Rabbi Leibel Moscowitz, Director of Chabad of South Loop and Rabbi Eliyahu Benhiyoun, Director of Chabad of Lincoln Park.

This year’s third night of Chanukah in Chicago is likely to be a memorable and significant event, as it is already publicized as such throughout the city. The program concluded with lively music and songs led by Shmuel Horowitz to make for a very enjoyable evening.