On December 16, 2020, the Austrian Embassy and the Austrian Consulate General New York, in partnership with the Washington and New York offices of the American Jewish Committee (AJC) and AJC ACCESS, (AJC's young professionals program), gathered for the 10th annual Hanukkah celebration. This year however, instead of an in-person event at the Embassy, we gathered virtually to light the candles of the menorahs.

Speaking from his residence in Washington, D.C., Ambassador Martin Weiss highlighted an amendment to the Austrian Nationality Act (sec 58c), which went into effect this past September. In recognition of Austria’s historical responsibility and as a further gesture in its efforts to achieve reconciliation with the Jewish community, victims of National Socialism and their descendants can now apply for Austrian citizenship. 

Among the newest Austrians is AJC CEO David Harris. In his remarks from New York, as a proud new dual citizen, he pointed out that “the Austria of today is profoundly committed to protect and nourish Jewish life”.

A Message from Vienna — Federal Minister Karoline Edtstadler

Austrian Federal Minister for the European Union and Constitution Karoline Edtstadler delivered a message from Vienna, in which she reiterated Austria’s firm commitment to fight all forms of anti-Semitism and pointed out, the improvement of Austrian relations with Israel have been strong priorities for the government under the leadership of Federal Chancellor Sebastian Kurz. Federal Minister Edtstadler sent a special Hanukkah greeting to AJC CEO David Harris, with whom she met during her visit to Washington last March. She also expressed her strong desire to attend the AJC-Austria Hanukkah celebration next year physically.

Moritz Weiss Klezmer Trio
The New Austrian Sound of Music band Moritz Weiss Klezmer Trio from Austria entertained the guests with their special interpretation of Hanukkah classics and own works.

The virtual event was attended by more than 130 guests, a sign of the strong friendship between AJC and Austria.