Community honors Jewish Heritage at Acrisure Arena on 3rd night of Hanukkah

The community came together to celebrate the 3rd night of Hanukkah, rather than focus on the negativity that’s been making headlines.

Acts of hate and antisemitism have been seen nationwide, but it didn't stop dozens of people from local Chabads in the Coachella Valley from coming together to honor Jewish heritage.

“Celebrating Hanukkah and recognizing that it's about doing kindness in this world," said Rabbi Yonason Denebeim, who is the Director of the Chabad of Palm Springs and other Desert Communities.

Rabbi Denebeim tells us the Hanukkah tradition has been celebrated for thousands of years.

“Although we know that we can't control the streets, we do have responsibility to illuminate the streets to illuminate mankind with values, ethical and moral concepts that will allow them to be the best possible example, to make this world a better place."

By bringing the tradition to Acrisure Arena, he says it’s a way for people of the entire community to join in on the fun.

“The idea is bringing people together disparate entities together as as a as a harmonious group," Rabbi Denebeim added.

From the Chabad of Rancho Mirage, Rabbi Shimon Posner tells us it’s a night to remember.

“When you come together as a community... it just brings out a whole new atmosphere, a whole new energy. And that's what we really feel here tonight," said Rabbi Posner.

Despite the rise in anti-semitic crimes being seen over the last couple of years, he says hate only makes their community stronger.

“Hate is only a stepping stone for love," Rabbi Posner said.

He says that if everyone comes together, the positive will always outweigh the negative.

“We just have to remember if it's dark, your light and that light will shine," he added, "The good thrives. It doesn't just survive. It succeeds and it's out there and the hate always falls away.”