WASSERMAN SCHULTZ STATEMENT ON PASSOVER

Sunrise – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) issued the following statement in observance of Passover:

“Sundown marks the beginning of Passover, a Jewish holiday that includes storytelling, reflection and a recommitment to our values of justice and service to others.

Every Passover, we gather with family and friends around the Seder table to read the inspiring stories of our people’s liberation from slavery in Egypt. We tell this story because it informs who we are.

As we go through the traditional Seder, each food we eat and word we say holds significant meaning. We also remind ourselves that there are many among us who still yearn for freedom. Some still carry the shackles of slavery, and so many more suffer from the daily realities of hunger.

Across every faith and background, millions flee violence, persecution and oppression around the world. There are many ways in which Judaism speaks strongly to this reality, but to me, there is none stronger than our own experience: Once we were slaves in Egypt, and now we are free.

It is my hope that all of my colleagues in Congress and the new Administration will take this Passover lesson to heart: ‘you shall not oppress the stranger, for you were once strangers in the land of Egypt.’

To my fellow celebrates of Passover, from my family to yours, we hope you have a safe, meaningful and peaceful holiday. Chag Pesach Sameach.”