Unwavering Jewish Courage

The Rebbe’s father, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson, was the Chief Rabbi of Dnepropetrovsk, Ukraine, at a time when Jewish leaders were persecuted for preserving Judaism. Rabbi Levi Yitzchak, however, was defiant; publicly declaring that he would not be coerced into submission.

To ensure the production of Kosher for Passover Matzah, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak traveled to Moscow and met with the President of the USSR. He was appointed rabbinical supervisor over the central wheat mills of the entire country, and was granted authority to approve or reject any shipments he saw fit, no questions asked.

Although his unflinching stands were a great risk to himself and his family, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak, encouraged by his wife, Rebbetzin Chana, remained resolute in the face of danger.