DALLAS — Inside the Chabad house on Worthington Street, Rabbi Baruch Hecht is preparing for Hanukkah.
"It does feel like this is a much-needed holiday," he told WFAA Wednesday night.
Hanukkah, also known as "the festival of lights,” celebrates the Jews’ victory over a tyrant king who tried to force them out of their religion, and the miracle that followed when a one-day supply of oil lit a menorah for eight.
Celebrating light and freedom from religious persecution, Rabbi Hecht told WFAA, feels extra needed this year.
"Given Oct. 7 and all the events that have transpired since, not just in the Middle East but all over the world, here at home in the US," he explained.
Here in the U.S., according to the Anti-Defamation League, antisemitic incidents increased 316% in the month after the Israel – Hamas war.
"There's definitely been an uptick from people who come into all of our events and say hey what does security look like, and we have definitely stepped that up, we take it very seriously," he added.
Rabbi Hecht does not want fear to keep a single Jew from celebrating Hanukkah. Chabad’s boosted security for all its events, including Dallas Police officers and private security.
"The more we can do so people can feel that so they can just relax and be present in what we’re celebrating, that’s really important. Be proud of your Judaism, don’t be scared to practice it, don’t be scared to participate in it," he said.
The Intown Chabad will host several Chabad events this week:
Thursday, Dec. 7 at 8 p.m., Chabad will host a Drinks and Dreidels party for young adults.
Sunday, Dec. 10 at 5 p.m., Chabad will host a public menorah lighting at Klyde Warren Park.
Tuesday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m., Chabad will host a Latke Fry Off.
Additional information about the events for those interested in participating can be found here.