May Holiday Light Inspire Joy and Condemn Hate, Cooper Says

December 16, 2025

HARRISBURG – Honored to have joined Gov. Josh Shapiro, a bipartisan group of House members and senators, and members of the Jewish community at the Capitol to celebrate the second night of Chanukah Monday, Rep. Jill Cooper (R-Westmoreland) issued the following statement:

“Organized by Chabad-Lubavitch and featuring beautiful performances by students from The Silver Academy, it was a privilege to witness such a powerful display of unity. Chanukah reminds us that light triumphs over darkness. It is a celebration of resilience in the human spirit, even in the shadows of the terrible atrocities in our world’s past, including the recent horrific terrorist attack in Australia.

“The loss of 15 innocent people, including children and a rabbi, as well as injuries to dozens of others, is an awful reminder that hate threatens to darken communities around the world. My heart aches for those touched by this recent event and I unequivocally condemn this act of pure evil and all forms of antisemitism.

“But I have faith in our deep-rooted beliefs in freedom, including to practice our own religions and celebrate accordingly. These are values that are held dear, not only in Pennsylvania, but in America and the rest of the world.

“In the next few days, the Jewish celebration of light will reach its final night and Christians around the world will enjoy the warm glow of Christmas candles. May this festive light touch our hearts and inspire us to share joy and friendship and stand firmly against hatred.”

Representative Jill Cooper
55th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Jordan Frei
724.875.8450
jfrei@pahousegop.com
RepJillCooper.com / Facebook.com/RepJillCooper