OTTAWA — The Canadian Federation of Chabad Lubavitch hosted ministers, members of parliament, senators and their staff for a pre-Chanukah event on Parliament Hill. This annual event provides the Parliament Hill community with the opprtunity to celebrate this joyous holiday with senior representatives of Canada's Jewish community.

Rabbi Chaim Mendelsohn, director of public affairs for the Canadian Federation of Chabad Lubavitch pointed out the great significance of having a Chanukah event together with parliamentarians of all political stripes. Just like the heroes in the Chanukah story fought to preserve freedom and equality so too the political leaders in Canada work tirelessly to promote a positive agenda of goodness and kindness in Canada and abroad.
 
Jason Kenney, minister of citizenship, immigration and multiculturalism brought Chanukah greetings on behalf of the government followed by the Leader of the Opposition Nycole Turmel who conveyed her best wishes on behalf of the NDP and Irwin Cotler who spoke on behalf of the Liberal party.
 
Following the lighting of the menorah, everyone sang maoz tzur accompanied by Justin Azerad on the violin, an accomplished child musician who has previously performed for other world leaders. Everyone then enjoyed a fully catered delicious spread together with some traditional Chanukah treats.
 
Also in attendance were Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird, Environment Minister Peter Kent and Minister of Natural Resources Joe Oliver.