Governor Jim Pillen has directed the State Capitol be lit up in blue the evening of Oct. 7, the one-year anniversary of the terror attack by Hamas-led militant groups on Israel in 2023.
In a news release, the Governor’s office says the lighting of the building symbolizes Nebraska’s ongoing support of Israel, which remains embroiled in a widening conflict with nearby countries such as Iran — which launched an attack against Israel earlier this week on Oct. 1.
Blue is representative of Israel’s flag, which is blue and white.
“Israel remains the target of state-sponsored terrorism. This is a dangerous and devastating situation, not only for those living in Israel, but also the Jewish communities here in Nebraska,” said Gov. Pillen. “We must stand up to antisemitism and discrimination in every form. Lighting the Capitol is a visual representation of that commitment.”
On Monday, Gov. Pillen will meet with representatives from Nebraska’s Jewish community, as they gather to commemorate the terror attack. He will also issue a proclamation marking the anniversary and reiterating an “unwavering support” for Israel, with a condemnation of antisemitism and terrorism.
Last week, Gov. Pillen joined 25 other Republican governors calling for passage of federal antisemitism legislation.