What is The Blue Light Project?
The Blue Light Project calls on Rochester community members to take action and stand by their Jewish neighbors in the fight against the staggering resurgence of Jew hatred, globally, nationally and right here in Rochester. Antisemitism is now at its highest levels since the Holocaust. The Blue Light Project aims to spark conversations among friends and neighbors, fostering understanding and compassion for Jewish community members, promoting education and awareness of anti-Jewish hate and helping to achieve safety, support and security for all in our community.
To participate in The Blue Light Project, use your blue lightbulb(s) from past years or purchase from Hadlock’s Ace Hardware at 3400 Monroe Avenue in Pittsford Colony Plaza across from Pittsford Plaza. Show your solidarity and support for the Jewish community by shining your blue light visibly outside your home or place of business, throughtout December 2023, which includes Hanukkah— the Jewish Festival of Lights.
Why Blue?
Blue is a traditionally significant color in Judaism. In the Torah (Hebrew Bible), G-d instructed Jews to include a blue cord in the tzizit, or tassels, of their clothing. Moreover, Tallit, or Jewish prayer shawls, often have blue stripes after which the modern blue and white flag of the State of Israel was modeled.
Where may I get a blue light?
To participate in The Blue Light Project, use your blue lightbulb(s) from past years or purchase from Hadlock’s Ace Hardware at 3400 Monroe Avenue in Pittsford Colony Plaza across from Pittsford Plaza. Show your solidarity and support for the Jewish community by shining your blue light visibly outside your home or place of business, throughtout December 2023, which includes Hanukkah— the Jewish Festival of Lights.
May I display any blue light?
Of course! Lights are also available for self-purchase at the below links, or you can purchase a blue light from anywhere you choose; if you choose Amazon please consider making the Jewish Federation of Rochester (our partner) your charity of choice and consider purchasing a multipack and donating the extras to your family, friends and neighbors so they can also shine a light against antisemitism:
History of The Blue Light Project
Launched in 2021 by Brighton Stands Against Antisemitism (the organization that sparked the creation of ROC Against Antisemitism, in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester, The Blue Light Project began as a grassroots initiative to raise awareness of antisemitism experienced in Brighton, New York. Unfortunately, since that time, outward Jew hate has skyrocketed and it is now more important than ever to raise awareness of this ancient, deeply-rooted hate and to stand together against it.
