Mr. Speaker, last night at sundown marked the first night of Hanukkah. ln communities across Canada and around the world, Jewish families will gather to light the menorah and celebrate the festival of lights with their loved ones.
The Hanukkah story is one of perseverance and great resilience, a story of hope and triumph against oppression. When we light the menorah, the candles help us remember the universal desire for the right to celebrate and express our own beliefs.
This celebration of triumph over adversity gives all Canadians an opportunity to reflect on the great contributions of our country's vibrant Jewish community. This serves as a reminder that our country has been made strong, not in spite of our differences but because of them.
With the festival of lights upon us, I, on behalf of my riding of York Centre, would like to wish all members of this House, and all Canadians, a season of health and happiness. Happy Hanukkah.
[Member spoke in Hebrew]