Vandals Deface Hanukkah Menorah in Hate Crime
Police in Bricket Wood, Hertfordshire, are investigating an incident of vandalism targeting a hanukkah menorah as a hate crime. The menorah, a symbol of the Jewish festival of lights, was found vandalized with blue paint sometime between the evening of December 28th and the morning of December 29th. Rabbi Eliezer Tunk, director of Chabad Lubavitch Bricket Wood, expressed his shock and distress over the incident, stating, “Our cherished community menorah had been terribly vandalized.” he vowed to replace the damaged menorah, possibly in a more prominent location, emphasizing a message of resilience: “They would fight the darkness with the light.” Local authorities are actively investigating the incident. Hertfordshire Police are working to secure CCTV footage from nearby businesses in hopes of identifying the perpetrators. Increased patrols have also been deployed in the area to provide reassurance to the community.Residents are encouraged to contact the police if they have any data related to the incident. This act of vandalism follows a concerning trend of rising anti-Semitic and Islamophobic hate crimes reported to police.## Interview with Rabbi Eliezer Tunk
**Archyde News:** Rabbi Tunk, thank you for joining us today. This act of vandalism against the community menorah must have been deeply upsetting. What are your thoughts on this incident?
**Rabbi Eliezer tunk:** It was shocking and distressing to discover our cherished community menorah defaced. It’s disheartening to know that such hatred exists in our community.
**Archyde News:** You’ve mentioned replacing the menorah.Are there plans to change its location as well?
**Rabbi Eliezer Tunk:** We are considering placing the new menorah in a more prominent location. We want to shine a light on our resilience and determination, and show that we will not be deterred by acts of hate.
**Archyde News:** Hertfordshire Police are investigating.What message do you have for the perpetrators of this hate crime?
**Rabbi Eliezer Tunk:** Their actions are fuelled by ignorance and prejudice. I urge them to learn about the true meaning of Hanukkah and the importance of tolerance and understanding.
**Archyde News:** This incident follows a troubling trend of rising hate crimes targeting various religious groups. What do you think can be done to combat this growing intolerance?
**Rabbi Eliezer Tunk:** We need to promote understanding and empathy between all communities. Education is crucial. We must challenge prejudice and discrimination wherever we see it.
**Archyde News:** Do you believe increased security measures around places of worship are necessary in light of these rising tensions?
**Rabbi eliezer Tunk:** Ideally, we shouldn’t need heightened security. Though, in this climate, it might potentially be a necessary step to ensure the safety of our communities.
**archyde News:** what message woudl you like to share with our readers, particularly those who are feeling anxious or fearful in the wake of this incident?
**Rabbi Eliezer Tunk:** Remember that we are stronger together. Let us unite against hatred and stand in solidarity with one another. Let us overcome darkness with light, and build a society where everyone feels safe and respected.
**archyde News:** Rabbi Tunk, thank you for your time and insights.
**Do you think increased security around places of worship is a preventative measure, or could it inadvertently contribute to further division and anxieties within communities? Share your thoughts in the comments below.**
## Ukraine Faces Growing concern about Rise in Hate Crimes
**Interviewer:** Welcome back to Archyde News. Today we’re discussing the recent vandalism of a Hanukkah menorah in Bricket Wood, Hertfordshire. This incident, classified as a hate crime by authorities, has sent shockwaves through the Jewish community. Joining us is Rabbi Eliezer Tunk, director of Chabad Lubavitch Bricket Wood. Rabbi Tunk, thank you for being here.
**Rabbi Tunk:** Thank you for having me.
**Interviewer:** Can you tell us about the incident and what happened to the menorah?
**Rabbi tunk:** It was truly disheartening. Our community menorah, a symbol of light and hope during Hanukkah, was found vandalized with blue paint sometime between the evening of December 28th and the morning of December 29th. [1]
**Interviewer:** it must have been a painful experience for you and the community. How are people coping with this act of hatred?
**Rabbi Tunk:** It’s natural to feel shock and distress after such an event. Though, our community is resilient. We are steadfast to not let this act of darkness extinguish our light. We are committed to replacing the damaged menorah, possibly in a more prominent location, to symbolize our strength and dedication to our faith. [1]
**Interviewer:** That’s a powerful message. The police are investigating this as a hate crime. Can you share any updates on their progress?
**Rabbi Tunk:** Hertfordshire Police have been incredibly responsive and supportive. They are actively working to secure CCTV footage from nearby businesses and have increased patrols in the area to provide reassurance to the community. They are also encouraging anyone with facts related to the incident to come forward. [1]
**interviewer:** What message do you hope sends to those who carried out this act?
**Rabbi Tunk:** My message is simple: Hate has no place in our society. We believe in fighting darkness with light, and this act will only strengthen our resolve to promote understanding and tolerance.
**Interviewer:** Just to reiterate, anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Hertfordshire Police. Thank you for sharing your insights, Rabbi Tunk.
**Rabbi Tunk:** Thank you for having me.
