Rabbi Shmuel Butman, Voice of Brooklyn's Jews, Dies at 81

Rabbi Shmuel Butman, a prominent figure in the Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic sect, passed away on July 22 in Manhattan at the age of 78. His death was confirmed by the Chabad-Lubavitch community, which noted that he had been suffering from heart problems. Rabbi Butman was well-known for lighting the giant menorah in Manhattan, recognized as the world’s largest, during Hanukkah celebrations for decades, symbolizing the community's resilience and faith. Rabbi Butman rose to prominence during the Crown Heights riots in 1991, a period marked by racial tensions and violence following the tragic deaths of a young Black boy and a Hasidic scholar. As the executive director of the Lubavitch Youth Organization, he became the spokesperson for the Chabad community, navigating the aftermath of the riots that left a lasting impact on the neighborhood and its residents. The riots erupted after the death of Yankel Rosenbaum, a Hasidic scholar, who was killed by a mob shortly after the car accident that claimed the life of 7-year-old Gavin Cato. The events sparked widespread condemnation from mainstream Jewish organizations, which criticized the violence but were initially hesitant to label the actions of the rioters as antisemitic. Rabbi Butman's legacy is intertwined with the Chabad-Lubavitch movement's efforts to foster understanding and dialogue in the wake of the riots, as well as his commitment to Jewish traditions and community leadership. His contributions to the community will be remembered as a testament to his dedication and resilience.