The Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum condemns the horrific antisemitic attack during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, where 15 lives were taken, including a Holocaust survivor, and dozens were injured.

This act of terror targeted families gathered for a Jewish holiday that symbolizes light triumphing over darkness, resilience over oppression, and hope enduring against hate. Hanukkah commemorates the victory of a small band of Jews, the Maccabees, who defeated a powerful enemy and celebrates the miracle of the oil needed to light the Temple Menorah (candelabra), which was expected to last only one day but lasted eight. Hanukkah is a joyful time, now marred by this terrorist attack.

Antisemitism is surging worldwide. Silence enables hate. We call on every community and global leader to speak out, protect the right of all people to worship in peace, and stand united against antisemitism and all forms of hatred.

The Museum remains committed to educating everyone to be Upstanders against hatred and ensuring history’s lessons are never forgotten – and never repeated.

Be the light against darkness.

-Mary Pat Higgins, President and CEO

-Ike Brown, Board Chair