Westminster Hall, the oldest building on the parliamentary estate, dating back to 1097, has established its Chanukah celebration as an annual tradition, as confirmed by Lord John Mann.
The historic hall hosted its second Chanukah event on Wednesday evening, drawing Jewish MPs, peers, and staff from across Westminster. The gathering featured speeches from prominent figures, including Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, Progressive Judaism’s Rabbi Charley Baginsky, and key political figures such as Security Minister Dan Jarvis, Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp, and Liberal Democrat MP Christine Jardine.
Speeches highlight Jewish contributions and unity
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle delivered a heartfelt address, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the Jewish community’s contributions to the nation. He described the event as a powerful symbol of inclusion at the heart of British democracy.
Later in the evening, Speaker Hoyle hosted a reception at Speaker’s House, with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, Board of Deputies President Phil Rosenberg, and Israel’s UK Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely among the speakers.
The speeches underscored the challenges faced by the Jewish community, including the recent rise in antisemitism. Phil Rosenberg praised parliamentarians for standing in solidarity with the Jewish community during a turbulent period and reaffirmed the Board of Deputies’ commitment to combating antisemitism and advocating for peace and security in Israel and the Middle East.
Symbolism of Chanukah in difficult times
Rabbi Mirvis and Rabbi Baginsky reflected on the symbolic relevance of the Chanukah story. Mirvis called for social cohesion and celebrated the Jewish principle of embracing diversity while pursuing shared goals. Baginsky highlighted the ongoing pursuit of peace and justice, noting the importance of bringing light to dark times.
The event also addressed international concerns, with Rayner referencing antisemitic incidents in Amsterdam and Melbourne, assuring the UK’s commitment to protecting Jewish communities and enforcing laws against hate crimes. Home Secretary Cooper and others echoed similar sentiments, condemning antisemitic displays during recent protests.
A Beacon of hope amid challenges
The confirmation of the event as an annual tradition was met with applause and relief by Jewish members of parliament, who viewed it as a reassuring gesture amidst rising antisemitism. Lord Mann praised the collaborative efforts of the Commons and Lords Speakers in establishing the Chanukah celebration as a regular occurrence.
Representatives from various Jewish organizations, including the Jewish Leadership Council, Jewish Labour Movement, and Conservative Friends of Israel, attended the event, marking it as a unifying moment for the community.
As Liberal Democrat MP Christine Jardine aptly put it, the Jewish community continues to “shine a light in the darkness,” bringing hope and resilience to the broader society.