Tonight, members of the Jewish community will gather with family and friends across New York to begin the celebration of Hanukkah.
"Hanukkah is a holiday that celebrates miracles - the miraculous endurance of the Jewish people in the face of persecution and hardship. The story of the Festival of Lights teaches us that when we stand together united, we can overcome any obstacle.
"Yesterday, after yet another horrible terrorist attack, New Yorkers went about their days undeterred and unafraid. To me, the greatest miracle of all is the New York spirit: our inimitable resolve that no matter what might try to knock us down, we always get back up stronger and more united than before.
"May the Festival of Lights remind us all that even in darkness, we celebrate the light. On behalf of all New Yorkers, best wishes and happy Hanukkah. Chag Urim Sameach."
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