1997 US Presidential
Chanukah Message

THE WHITE HOUSE
Office of the Press Secretary

By the President of the United States of America
Chanukah 1997

Warm greetings to everyone celebrating Hanukkah.

The Festival of Lights is a powerful reminder each year that the age-old struggle for religious freedom is not yet over. From the days of the ancient Maccabees down to our present time, tyrants have sought to deny people the free expression of their faith and the right to live according to their own conscience and convictions. Hanukkah symbolizes the heroic struggle struggle of all who seek to defeat such oppression and the miracles that come to those full of faith and courage. This holiday holds special meaning for us in America, where freedom of religion is one of the cornerstones of democracy.

The coming year will mark the 50th anniversary of the State of Israel, where the story of the first Hanukkah took place so many centuries ago. As families come together in prayer for the eight nights of Hanukkah, to reaffirm their hope in G-d and their gratitude for His faithfulness to His people, may the candles of the menorah light our way to a true and lasting peace for the people of the Middle East.

Hillary and I extend our warmest wishes to all those celebrating Hanukkah, all those who work for religious freedom, and for all those who devote themselves to the cause of peace throughout the world.

William J. Clinton
President of the United States

Like this article?

Related Articles:
2004 US Presidential Chanukah Greeting (Bush)
2009 US Presidential Chanukah Greeting (Obama)
2007 US Presidential Chanukah Greeting (Bush)
2006 US Presidential Chanukah Greeting (Bush)
2001 US Presidential Chanukah Greeting (Bush)