Governor Greg Abbott on Sunday led an annual Hanukkah ceremony in Austin, Texas, where Jewish community members gathered to mark the holiday and address the recent mass stabbing attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, which injured the brother of a Texas rabbi.
Organizers chose a central Austin venue to accommodate higher attendance following the Australia attack. Jewish families, community leaders, and local residents attended the event, which included traditional Hanukkah prayers, songs, and the lighting of a menorah.
The brother of the injured rabbi spoke at the ceremony, describing how the Bondi Beach attack affected his family and congregation. Participants highlighted community solidarity, public safety, and the importance of religious observance during Hanukkah in their remarks.
Representatives of Jewish community groups announced plans for additional Hanukkah gatherings and outreach activities in Austin and other Texas cities to support those affected by the Bondi Beach attack.