Yesterday evening, the Jewish Representative Council of Greater Manchester & Region (JRC) and The Jewish Leadership Council (JLC) were proud to host a Civic Reception at The Performance Space in Manchester Central Library, marking the fifth night of Chanukah and celebrating the immense contribution of the Jewish community to Greater Manchester.

The evening brought together representatives from across our diverse Jewish community, alongside Members of Parliament and Council Leaders from across Greater Manchester; as well as civic and ceremonial leaders, faith leaders and senior figures from policing, health, education and public services. We were honoured to welcome, among many others: the Lord Lieutenant, High Sheriff, Lord Mayor of Manchester, Police & Crime Commissioner, Kate Green, university leaders, Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson QPM, Chief Executive of the Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Marc Cubbon and Chief Fire Officer of Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service, Dave Russel.

Speeches from Mark Adlestone OBE, Chair of the JRC and Trustee of the JLC; Cllr Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council and Sir Stephen Watson QPM, Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police reflected both pride in our shared community and the challenges faced since the 7 October 2023 attack and the recent terrorist attack on the Heaton Park Synagogue. Mark spoke about how fortunate we are to live in a city where the leadership deeply cares about the welfare and safety of our community.

A moving moment saw a candle lit by Amanda Bomsztyk and Kate Green in memory of those who lost their lives in the horrific attack in Sydney, standing in solidarity with Jewish communities around the world.

This was followed by the lighting of the menorah by members  of the Jewish community, led by Rabbi Dovid Lewis and members of the community.

The evening was a powerful expression of solidarity, resilience and hope. Gratitude was shared with elected representatives, MPs, Council Leaders, civic figures and third-sector organisations who continue to stand with and support the Jewish community during difficult times.

As Chanukah reminds us, even in moments of darkness, light endures. We are deeply thankful to all who joined us to stand together against hate, celebrate our shared values and reaffirm our commitment to a safe, inclusive and united Greater Manchester.