Bondi Beach Pogrom
Sydney Opera House Lights Up in Solidarity With Jewish Community After Bondi Attack
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns directed the Sydney Opera House to be lit up with a Chanukia in solidarity with the Jewish community after the massacre. Minns: "A reminder that even in darkness, we choose to stand with one another."
The Sydney Opera House was illuminated with the candles of a menorah on Monday night, marking the second night of Chanukah and offering a public show of solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community following the deadly terror attack at Bondi Beach.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said the decision was made in the wake of the attack to send a clear message that Jewish Australians are not alone and will not be forced to hide their identity or faith.
“In the wake of this horrific attack, it is more important than ever that the Jewish community in NSW knows they do not stand alone,” Minns said. “We cannot, and we will not allow Jewish Australians to feel they must hide their faith, their traditions, their religious celebrations or their identity.”
The lighting followed Sunday’s mass shooting at a Chanukah event at Bondi Beach, in which 15 people were murdered and dozens wounded. Authorities have since boosted security around Jewish institutions and public events across the state.
Minns described the illumination as “a simple but powerful gesture,” intended to honor the resilience of the Jewish community and affirm the state’s support.
“Those candles are a symbol of resilience,” he said, “and a reminder that even in darkness, we choose to stand with one another.”
Images of the Opera House lit with a menorah quickly spread online, drawing praise from Jewish leaders and community members during a period of mourning and heightened concern.