The Miami-Dade County tax collector, Dariel Fernández, reported that an individual attempted to destroy the menorah installed and lit for the first time at the office's headquarters, in a symbolic act of celebrating Hanukkah.
The menorah is a nine-branched candelabrum —also known as hanukkiah— that is lit during the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah. Each of its lights represents the days of the miracle of the oil, a symbol of faith, hope, and the resilience of the Jewish people in the face of darkness and persecution. It is one of the most sacred and recognizable objects of the Hebrew tradition, and a universal emblem of religious freedom.
“Last night, someone attempted to destroy the menorah we lit for the first time at the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector's Office,” Fernández reported in a statement published on social media X.
The official confirmed that the person responsible for the vandalistic act has already been identified and formally charged. Fernández thanked the swift action of the local authorities, as well as the intervention of a "good Samaritan" who picked up the menorah after it was knocked down.
The Tax Collector made a promise to the Jewish community of Miami-Dade.
"The menorah will be repaired and lit again. This tradition will continue every year with even more strength and unity. Acts of hate do not define us. Light, faith, and unity do," added the Cuban-American businessman and politician.
The collector emphasized his rejection of any manifestation of antisemitism and reaffirmed his support for the Jewish community in the county.
"I stand firmly with the Jewish community and all residents who believe in dignity, respect, and freedom of faith. Antisemitism has no place in Miami-Dade," he concluded.
The county authorities have not provided any additional details regarding the identity of the accused or the potential charges they will face.
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