Illinois city sparks complaints, petition by limiting Hanukkah menorah display to just a few hours

A controversy has erupted in Lake Forest, Illinois, after the city decided to limit a Hanukkah menorah display to just a few hours instead of the traditional eight days. The decision has sparked outrage, with over 6,500 people signing a Change.org petition demanding that the menorah be allowed to remain in Market Square for the full duration of the holiday.

In response to the backlash, the city announced that it would support Chabad of Lake Forest’s Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Ceremony on December 29, 2024, at 4 p.m. Mayor Stanford Tack will participate in the lighting of the middle candle of the Menorah, with other local elected officials expected to attend. However, the city clarified that the menorah would not be left unattended in Market Square after the event, citing legal guidance from the city’s attorneys.

The Change.org petition, authored by a local interfaith family, expressed disappointment at the city’s decision to limit the menorah display to just a few hours. They highlighted the inclusive spirit that last year’s display brought to the community and urged the city to reinstate the menorah for all eight nights of Hanukkah.

Rabbi Moshe Spalter of Chabad of Lake Forest expressed his desire for the menorah to be allowed to stay up for the full eight days of Hanukkah. He explained that while the city was initially supportive of the idea last year, they have since changed their stance.

Despite the controversy, Rabbi Spalter encouraged the community to come together and celebrate the menorah lighting event. He emphasized the importance of unity and celebration, especially in light of the ongoing debate surrounding the display.

As the city of Lake Forest grapples with the decision to limit the menorah display, it remains to be seen how the community will come together to celebrate Hanukkah in a spirit of unity and inclusion. The City of Lake Forest has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the controversy, but the community is hopeful that a resolution can be reached in time for next year’s celebrations.