This Chanukah, the Board of Deputies of British Jews – in collaboration with the Yellow Ribbon Campaign, the Hostages and Missing Forum UK, and the British Hostage Families – is launching the ‘Be Their Light’ iniaitive.

The campaign is urging individuals, families, synagogues, schools and youth movements to light an extra candle each night of the festival in support of the hostages still being held captive by Hamas.

To support this initiative, A6 cards have been created for every night of Chanukah – to go alongside the candles – each featuring the story of a different hostage with a British connection. These cards will serve as a poignant reminder of those still in captivity and the importance of keeping their plight in our hearts and minds.

Board of Deputies President Phil Rosenberg said: “It is unbearable to contemplate that these hostages, captured in such traumatic circumstances, are still held in Gaza. At this time of darkness, we must all shine some light on their plight and pray for their release. Please join this campaign and bring them home now.”

Progressive communities are encouraged to share pictures of their Chanukiah with the social media hashtags #BeTheirLightUK and #BringThemHomeNow, to raise awareness and show support for the hostages and their families.

For more information and to download the campaign cards, please click here.