LGBTQ University of Maryland students prepare to celebrate Hanukkah
A number of Hanukkah events for LGBTQ students will take place at the University of Maryland this week. Queer Jewish students and allies are welcome to attend Crazy Cozy Chill Chanukah Celebration on Sunday at the University of Maryland Hillel.
Hamsa, home to queer Jewish life on campus, hosted a study break with hot drinks, snacks and games and a chance to welcome Hanukkah early.
The first night of Hanukkah is Thursday. Chabad UMD is hosting a menorah lighting on Thursday in front of McKeldin Library and plans to mention the war between Israel and Hamas, according to Rabbi Eli Backman of Chabad UMD.
The event is going to be a focus on the positivity and the message of the Hanukkah story. “We’ve been around for thousands of years and all those who’ve tried to make sure that we didn’t live to see the next generation (is) no longer here,” Backman said. “That message will really resonate at home for the holiday.” The story of the Maccabees is one of the few stories where Jewish people fought, Backman said.
