The principles of Kwanzaa are deeply rooted in community building and empowerment. Every candle lit is a reminder of how each value works together to strengthen who we are individually, but most importantly, collectively.

This week-long celebration of African-American culture and heritage has instilled the importance of unity (umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), cooperative economics (ujamaa), purpose (nia), creativity (kuumba), and faith (imani) across familial generations.  

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Wishing all who celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ – the greatest gift ever given to mankind – a blessed and Merry Christmas.

May this holiday season restore hope, joy, and peace in our hearts and in our homes.

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As Jewish families around the world light their menorahs to celebrate the festival of lights, we are reminded of the story of Chanukah. This story teaches us to fight against all forms of hate and bigotry, with the same tenacity as the Maccabbean revolt against the Greek-Syrian oppressors. Although we are facing more challenges than ever before, the message remains the same, we too will remain resilient.    

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In this season of gratitude and generosity, I am thankful for the extraordinary experiences we have shared over the past several months as family, friends, neighbors, and New Yorkers.

During an unprecedented pandemic, we rallied behind our frontline and essential workers who propelled this city forward. Residents and small business owners came together to offer a helping hand during such difficult times.  

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We owe a debt of gratitude to our former servicemembers and their families who made tremendous sacrifices to protect our freedoms. Without their contributions, the American Dream and spirit would cease to exist.  Despite fulfilling their commitments in the U.S. or abroad, many veterans continue to serve our community – particularly during this pandemic. They are our first responders, nurses and doctors, small business owners, educators, sanitation and transpoortation workers.

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Wishing all who will observe Sukkot, a Chag Sameach! 

Every day, we walk in faith that G-d is always present, to protect and provide for us in every season. May this occasion bring great joy to all, as families throughout District 45 give thanks and celebrate the Festival of Tabernacles.

Today, we honor our city’s workforce – the majority of whom are women. who were frontline and essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their public service ensured that our healthcare, education, and transportation systems continued to function during our city’s most challenging times. This Labor Day, we recognize the thousands of New Yorkers who have contributed greatly to the progression of our city year-round.

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Our faith is what empowers us to trust and make sacrifices that would be considered impossible by the majority of us.

Ibrahim (Abraham) was a prophet whose obedience was tested by God when he was commanded to sacrifice his firstborn son. As he laid his son on the altar, God provided an animal in his stead. Ibrahim’s story continues to inspire generations.

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At sundown, the Jewish community will observe Tisha B’Av, or a day of mourning. This somber occasion commemorates the destruction of the First and Second temples in Jerusalem, and the succession of tragic events that occurred on this day.

During this period of reflection and repentance, observers will contemplate the individual and national impediments that have prolonged their exile, while renewing their personal commitment to love one another unconditionally.

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