San Diego State University’s Chabad House has unveiled a new menorah after the previous one was vandalized three times in the last two years. The incidents, caught on tape, have sparked outrage and a determination to combat hate within the community.
Rabbi Chalom Boudjnah, the Director of Chabad House at SDSU, expressed his belief that love will always triumph over hate. He stated, “This happened, and it was outside our control, but what we can control is showing that love always wins against hate.”
The most recent act of vandalism occurred in March, resulting in the menorah being broken on the ground. Boudjnah described the act as “vicious” and “vile.” Despite these challenges, the community refused to let it deter their spirit.
Inspired by the incident, the community decided to rebuild the menorah, symbolizing their resilience and unity. Boudjnah emphasized, “It’s been a burden on our community, but we are reminded that we have to stand strong. We didn’t let this ruin anything. Instead, we came together and decided to build something beautiful and strong.”
The new steel menorah, valued at approximately $35,000, was generously donated by a company in Orlando, Florida. Additionally, the company provided a $10,000 donation to the Chabad House. The arrival of the new menorah just in time for Hanukkah signifies a fresh start for the community.
The Chabad House plans to commemorate the first day of Hanukkah by lighting the menorah at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. The event has already garnered over 400 reservations, demonstrating the support and solidarity of the community.
Boudjnah expressed gratitude for the community’s unwavering support, stating, “We have the whole community around us, we have so many great people around us. We will never be scared, and this event is a way to show we don’t have to hide. The power of life, power of love, is always going to be stronger than hate.”
This incident serves as a reminder of the rising anti-Semitic prejudice across the United States and the world. The community’s resilience and determination to combat hate are commendable, showcasing the strength of unity and love in the face of adversity.
