Governor Greg Abbott attended the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston’s October 7th remembrance ceremony, where he spoke in honor of those killed during the Hamas attacks in 2023.
During his remarks, Governor Abbott said, “No one has responded with the grace of God as effectively time and time again as the people of Israel. We gather to remember those taken from us two years ago in the deadliest attack against the Jewish people since the Holocaust. We pray every day that every hostage is returned to their families who have waited far too long.”
At the event, Governor Abbott reiterated Texas’ ongoing support for Israel and Jewish communities both locally and internationally. He also reflected on his visit to Israel shortly after the attacks, where he witnessed the aftermath firsthand.
Recently, Governor Abbott instructed the Texas Department of Public Safety to increase security at synagogues and other places of worship throughout Texas.
The ceremony was attended by several state representatives including Charles Cunningham, Ann Johnson, Dennis Paul, Jon Rosenthal, and Lauren Ashley Simmons; Houston Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum; Congregation Beth Israel Senior Rabbi David Lyon; Jewish Federation CEO Renee Wizig-Barrios; Board Chair Rob Shoss; along with other state and local officials.
Photos from the event are expected to be made available at a later date.
