Seattle – Mayor Bruce Harrell released the following statement following an antisemitic terrorist attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia:
“I am horrified and heartbroken by the violence against families celebrating the beginning of Hanukkah in Sydney. The City of Seattle condemns this vile act of antisemitism, and we stand in solidarity with our local Jewish neighbors in this period of grief and as they mourn the lives lost.
“Hannukah should be a joyful time of year celebrating strength, hope, and resilience of the Jewish people, and our residents should be able to celebrate their faith free from fear. The Seattle Police Department (SPD) will be closely monitoring synagogues and places of worship to ensure safe celebrations and gatherings citywide.”