As a resident of Wellesley, I have always been proud of our town's commitment to inclusivity and diversity. This is why it is so incredibly important, especially to the children in our community, that we represent and support all faiths. One way we can do this is by having a public menorah display during Hanukkah. The menorah is a symbol of light, joy and warmth. In recent years, the town of Wellesley has had a menorah as part of its holiday display, and given the current state of the world, it seems particularly troubling to reverse this tradition this holiday season. Surrounding towns are having Hanukkah displays and events, and Wellesley needs to step up and, at the very least, put up a menorah.

I was driving around town with my elementary school aged daughter, and she noted all the Christmas decorations and asked me where all the Hanukkah decorations were. A public menorah display not only supports our Jewish community, but also educates others about the rich traditions and history of Judaism. According to Pew Research Center, Jewish people make up 2% of the United States population (2014). In Massachusetts alone, there are approximately 277,000 Jewish people which makes up about 4% of the state population (American Jewish Year Book 2016). It's crucial that these citizens feel seen and represented in their own communities.

By establishing a public menorah display in Wellesley, we are sending out a message - that all religions are respected here; that every citizen has the right to celebrate their faith openly; and most important, that everyone belongs.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fostering an inclusive community where every faith is recognized and celebrated.