On Monday, December 11, Chabad of Nashville hosted a Menorah lighting at the state capitol, with Governor Bill Lee, and first Lady, Maria Lee. Governor Lee was recently appointed to be the chairman of the Republican Governors Association of the United States.
In attendance were leaders of the Nashville Jewish community, and five Israeli families that lived in the Kibbutzim near Gaza on October 7. They miraculously survived the Hamas massacre, while some of their friends were murdered, and others were kidnapped and taken hostage in Gaza.
These families are in Nashville now for several weeks to get some respite from the trauma they experienced, and they participated as guests at the Menorah lighting with the Governor, and one of the Israeli mom's spoke about her experience at the event.
The Governor said, “This week, we welcomed five Jewish families who fled Israel after the horrific October 7 terror attacks to celebrate Hanukkah at the Capitol. These brave families and Jewish people around the world represent the hope that Hanukkah brings — that light will always overcome the darkness.”
It was a very emotional and moving event, and it was a powerful experience for the Israeli community, as the Governor shared his unwavering support for Israel and the people of Israel.
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