The State of Connecticut is joining Jewish communities around the world in commemorating the 18th anniversary of the passing of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, by proclaiming June 22, 2012 as a “Day of Goodness and Kindness.”

“The trademark of Chabad, based on the guidance of the Rebbe, is belief in the inherent goodness of the world and its inhabitants. Hence, every person is worthy of attention, love, and knowledge,” reads a proclamation signed by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy.

“A central tenant of the Rebbe’s teaching is the idea that every single positive act, as minor as it may seem, contributes to a better, more perfect world.”

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Malloy is also expected to join Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman at a special tribute to the Rebbe organized by Chabad-Lubavitch of Connecticut at the State Capitol’s Senate Chamber Monday afternoon.

That event will bring together other dignitaries, rabbis and community leaders from across the state for a program that includes a musical celebration highlighting Chasidic melodies attributed to the Rebbe and a brief video biography focusing on his leadership in transforming Jewish life across the globe.

“By his example and through his teachings, the Rebbe has inspired millions of lives,” said Rabbi Yosef Wolvovsky, executive director of the Benet Rothstein Chabad Jewish Center in Glastonbury, one of 23 fulltime Chabad Houses throughout the state.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman
Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Lt. Gov. Nancy Wyman

“This program aims to honor the Rebbe by continuing this legacy of education and generosity.”

Over the course of the next two weeks – the Rebbe passed away in 1994 on the third day of the Hebrew month of Tammuz, which begins the night of June 22 this year – Jewish community centers, synagogues, schools and Chabad Houses the world over will host Chasidic gatherings, study sessions and inspirational lectures focusing on different aspects of the Rebbe’s teachings and work.

In honor of the anniversary, the Judaism website Chabad.org also unveiled a new feature dedicated to the day and highlighting the Rebbe’s specific teachings and advice regarding the role of women in Judaism.