Chabad will once again sponsor the annual Hanukkah celebration at the Kansas State Capitol.
This year’s “Grand Community-Wide Chanukah Celebration” will take place on Monday, Dec. 15 at 4:30 p.m. in the rotunda of the Capitol. The event is free and open to the public, and all are welcome. A reception with traditional Hanukkah treats — including latkes, donuts and gelt — will follow the ceremony.
This year’s theme, “Light Over Darkness,” highlights the power of light, goodness and hope in the face of pain and challenge. In that spirit, the community will honor Bob and Nancy Milgrim, who will light the menorah alongside Governor Laura Kelly. This symbolic act is intended to recognize their strength and the message of light following the darkness of the tragic murder of their beloved daughter, Sarah, in an act of hate. Despite their loss, the Milgrims are dedicated to sharing Sarah’s legacy with the world.
The event will also honor Bob Cutler, whose family has dedicated the new Chabad center for students at the University of Kansas.
Representatives from communities across Kansas — including Wichita, Manhattan, Topeka, Lawrence and Johnson County — are expected to participate. Governor Laura Kelly, along with numerous elected officials and Jewish community leaders, is expected to attend.
“Celebrating this important holiday at the State Capitol is a tremendous boost of Jewish pride for the Jews of Kansas,” said Rabbi Zalman Tiechtel of KU Chabad, who is organizing the event in partnership with regional Chabad centers. “Especially during these challenging times for the Jewish people, we must stand tall and share the light of Hanukkah with courage and strength. Unlike many Jewish holidays celebrated privately, Hanukkah calls us to illuminate the public square. We are honored to once again bring this light to the heart of our beloved state of Kansas.”
Reservations are requested by emailing or calling KU Chabad at (785) 832-8672.
