U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries Honored with Inaugural Shamash Award
December 20, 2024 – We had the honor of recognizing U.S. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries with JCRC-NY’s inaugural Shamash Award – a meaningful tribute to his unwavering leadership and dedication to the Jewish community and all New Yorkers.
During Hanukkah, the shamash candle serves a unique role – it lights all the other candles on the menorah, spreading its flame to create warmth and illumination for all. Leader Jeffries embodies the spirit of the shamash, consistently standing as a source of strength, guidance, and light for those he serves. His leadership has been a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change.
In response to rising antisemitic attacks across the state, Leader Jeffries helped launch the Breaking Bread, Building Bonds initiative to better educate children of all backgrounds on Jewish identity and history, one of JCRC-NY’s main goals. Following the October 7th tragedy in Israel, Leader Jeffries also helped secure over $14 billion in aid to Israel to support the safe return of the remaining hostages, among numerous examples of his commitment to solidarity.
We are deeply grateful to Leader Jeffries for sharing his inspiring words live from Washington, DC and to Frieda Menos, his Director of Constituent Services for accepting the award on his behalf. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Sephardic Community Center in Brooklyn for graciously hosting this special event. We also thank our community partners along with our Chair of the Board Cheryl Fishbein, Vice President Sandy Antignas, and Board Members Jennifer Falk, Karen Spar Kasner, and David Moore who came out to support this meaningful celebration.
As we kindle the lights of Hanukkah, let us continue to honor those who dedicate themselves to brightening the world around them. Mazel tov to Leader Jeffries on this well-deserved recognition! 
#ShamashAward #Hanukkah #Leadership #Community
News Coverage:
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Brooklyn Paper and Politics NY, Lighting the way: JCRC-NY honors Hakeem Jeffries with inaugural Shamash Leadership Award
Sponsors:
Charter Communications
Brown & Weinraub
Kasirer
Mercury
Ryback Development
Partners:
UJA-Federation of New York
Sephardic Community Center
JASA
Jewish Community Council of Canarsie
Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island
Kings Bay Y
PJ Library
Shorefront YM-YWHA of Brighton – Manhattan Beach, Inc.
Early Celebration of Hanukkah at Jewish Bakeries in Brooklyn
December 18, 2024 – 
Donut underestimate how sweet our day was in Brooklyn the week before Hanukkah! We teamed up with Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso to explore the borough’s iconic Jewish bakeries and savor sufganiyot (jelly donuts) 
—and we even got to learn how to make them! 
Brooklyn’s vibrant Jewish community is a cornerstone of its rich culture, and we’re proud to highlight it not just during challenging times but in moments of joy too.
Huge thanks to Strauss Bakery, Taam Eden Bakery, and Sesame Bakery for the warm welcome and a behind-the-scenes look at the donut magic!
Special shoutout to NYPD Deputy Chief Richie Taylor and CSI Brooklyn Regional Director Adam Berish for joining us on this delicious journey. Extra gratitude to Brooklyn Borough President Reynoso for his support of the Jewish community and spending the day with us.
Wishing everyone a bright and beautiful Hanukkah . Let’s keep lifting up Jewish life and small businesses every chance we get! #HappyHanukkah #SweetCelebrations #BrooklynPride
News Coverage:
