A message from Stacey Leavitt-Wright, CEO Jewish Federation of Edmonton

by Stacey Leavitt-Wright

(Edmonton) – As we gather to celebrate Chanukah, it reminds us of the central theme of rededication. The word “Chanukah” itself means “dedication,” and this holiday invites us to reflect on renewing our commitment to Jewish values, faith, and community.

The victory of the Maccabees was not just a military triumph—it was a triumph of faith, courage, and the determination to preserve our identity and way of life. This year, as we light the Chanukah candles, we cannot help but think of the ongoing challenges faced by Israel and the Jewish people. The bravery of the Maccabees resonates deeply as we watch our brothers and sisters in Israel endure not only military threats but also efforts to undermine their right to exist as a Jewish state.

Like the Maccabees, Israel has shown incredible resilience in the face of adversity. The recent conflicts, especially the horror of the hostages, have reminded us of the importance of protecting our heritage, our people, and our right to live in peace and security.

Let us focus this year’s Chanukah on planting the seeds of renewal and hope—investing in the future of Jewish life, culture, and leadership.

In case you missed the announcements after our recent annual general meeting, I am so deeply appreciative of our renewed leadership team, with Rebecca Asbell and Benaron Gleiberman assuming co-presidency, Anika Zepp stepping up as treasurer, Lisa Miller maintaining her roles as vice-president and Jewish Community Centre (JCC) Development Committee co-chair, and Josh Raizman and Farrel Shadlyn staying in the role of United Jewish Appeal co-chairs for another year. I look forward to working with this diligent group to ensure that we continue to build the foundations of hope, unity, and renewal.

Our light as a community will keep glowing with the new JCC in development. Our new building will be a centre where we will forge our collective strength, gathering together to shine as a light to those around us. The JCC redevelopment work is progressing, with the firm Pemco Construction Ltd. contracted for the next phase of this project.

With many multipurpose spaces, a teen lounge and a rooftop patio, we can envision a multitude of programs that will continue to connect and inspire our community. Not only will we host speakers and events, but there is also space put aside for a future Holocaust Education and Jewish Heritage Centre where we will learn with and welcome Edmontonians to our community.

Chanukah is a time for celebrating miracles—the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days, the miracle of freedom, and the miracle of Jewish survival across centuries. But perhaps the greatest miracle of all is the resilience and unity of our people, and this is a miracle we can create together every day.

Chag Chanukah Sameach.

Stacey Leavitt-Wright is CEO, Jewish Federation of Edmonton.