The Jewish community in Waterloo Region demonstrated resilience and unity during a Hanukkah celebration held shortly after a tragic attack on the other side of the world sent shockwaves through its members.
A Celebration of Light Amidst Darkness
An attack in Australia, specifically the Bondi Beach massacre, deeply affected Jewish communities globally, including the one in Waterloo. In response, local community members organized a gathering to mark the Jewish Festival of Lights, Hanukkah, which took place on December 15, 2025. The event served as a powerful symbol of hope and togetherness in a difficult time.
As reported by CTV's Colton Wiens, the celebration was intentionally designed to foster connection and support. Participants lit the menorah, shared traditional foods, and stood in solidarity, emphasizing that their community would not be defined by fear but by faith and mutual support.
Local Impact of a Global Tragedy
The news of the attack in Sydney resonated profoundly with local families, many of whom have friends, family, or simply feel a deep kinship with Jewish communities worldwide. The Winnipeg Jewish community was also described as 'shocked and devastated' by the same event, highlighting the widespread impact.
The Waterloo gathering provided a crucial space for people to process their emotions, grieve collectively, and reaffirm their commitment to safety and community. It underscored how acts of hatred in one part of the world can deeply affect diaspora communities everywhere, while also showcasing the strength found in coming together.
Looking Forward with Resilience
The Hanukkah event in Waterloo stands as a testament to the community's resolve. By choosing to celebrate their traditions publicly and with warmth, they sent a clear message of perseverance. The festival, which commemorates a historic victory over oppression, took on a poignant, contemporary meaning this year.
This local response mirrors the broader need for community support and vigilance. It also occurs within a national context where other Canadian cities are grappling with threats, as seen in a separate bomb threat at a Kitchener school that was deemed to pose 'no immediate threat' by police.
The story from Waterloo is ultimately one of light prevailing over darkness, a core tenet of Hanukkah, made real through shared courage and unity in the face of adversity.
