By the Grace of G‑d
25 Cheshvan. 5742
Brooklyn, N.Y.

L.E. Jaffe, Esq.
777 Terrace Avenue
Hasbrouck Heights, N.J. 07604

Greeting and Blessing:

No doubt you have received my telephone message in reply to your letter of Nov. 18 on the matter of placing a Chanukah Menorah on Public property in Teaneck. For the record I will also reiterate here in writing, briefly at any rate.

The subject matter in general is not a new idea requiring investigation as to constitutionality, public reaction, etc. All this has already been fully weighed years ago, resulting in overwhelming support for the idea, and in the actual erection of a gigantic Chanukah Menorah on public property in Manhattan, in the City of New York, the largest in the USA, also in Washington, the Nation’s capital, as well as Philadelphia, the birthplace of America’s Independence. Chanukah Menorahs are on display in many cities throughout the Union.

Thus it has been long recognized in the USA that the erection of a public Chanukah Menorah is a positive thing because of its universal message of freedom of the human spirit, freedom from tyranny and oppression, and of the ultimate victory of good over evil, just as “a little light dispels a lot of darkness.” These fundamental human aspirations and principles, as visibly symbolized by [the] kindling of the Chanukah Lights, are surely shared by the vast majority of Americans.

Indeed, so enthusiastically welcome has the Public Chanukah Menorah been that its inaugurals have been graced by the personal participation of the President of the United States in Washington, and of the highest City and State officials and dignitaries wherever the Chanukah Menorah made its annual appearance.

As an Attorney of Law you know, of course, the force of precedent, especially one that has recurred many times, in every Court of Law.

Incidentally, the [said Public] Chanukah Menorah has already become a familiar sight, since it has usually received good coverage by the media.

Your personal effort in this matter is sincerely appreciated.

With esteem and blessing,