Ronit Franco-Pinsky’s Chanukah Message for 2025

As we approach the end of 2025 and the holiday of lights, Hanukkah, I find myself reflecting on this past October — right around the High Holy Days — when our hostages finally returned home. Twenty living hostages were released, and the outpouring of relief and celebration in Israel was immense and unanimous. In those moments, it didn’t matter whether one leaned right or left politically, or whether one supported or opposed President Trump’s Gaza and Middle East policies. The joy felt by Israelis, by Jews in the diaspora, and by countless non-Jewish friends around the world was universal — because it touched something deeply human.

Moments like these remind us that harmony and coexistence are possible. People with diverse backgrounds, identities, and beliefs can live together peacefully in the same space.

The political divisions we see today — both in the United States and in Israel — between right and left, Democrats and Republicans, must somehow find a way to coexist. We can disagree passionately, but we must also listen, respect one another, and remember that differences do not have to turn into hatred. We already face enough enemies from the outside; we must not become enemies to one another from within.

We must also stay vigilant against radical extremism. History has shown us the dangers, whether it comes from extremist Islamist movements and their proxies in the Middle East, or from radical political figures in the United States and abroad who may incite violence. Events like October 7 are reminders of how urgent it is to stand against hatred, ignorance, and bigotry. Education, compassion, and courage are the tools that allow light to overcome darkness.

I am deeply grateful that I was in Israel on the day the hostages returned home. The joy in the air was indescribable. This Hanukkah, the freed hostages will finally be able to light the candles, eat latkes, enjoy sufganiyot (Israeli donuts), and celebrate with their families. Simply living and being free is so often taken for granted — but now feels like a true miracle — how symbolic! It reminds us of the Miracle of the Hanukkah oil that lasted eight full days.

I wish our entire community here in Atlanta a warm, festive holiday season filled with blessings, joy, and meaningful gatherings with your loved ones. May your Hanukkah celebrations shine brightly with hope, unity, and peace.

Ronit Franco-Pinsky is the Executive Assistant for Atlanta Jewish Times.