Rep. Wasserman Schultz Recognizes Jewish American Heritage Month

(Washington, DC) – This May marks the United States’ fifth annual celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions Jewish Americans have made and continue to make in American culture and society.

“The foundation of our country is built upon the strengths of our unique cultures and backgrounds,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “Our diversity is our strength, but unfortunately ignorance is still prevalent and it often leads to prejudice and intolerance. That is why I felt it was so important to establish Jewish American Heritage Month.

“Similar to Black History Month in February and Women’s History Month in March, Jewish American Heritage Month recognizes the abundance of contributions American Jews have made to the United States over the last 355 years…from technology and literature, to entertainment, politics and medicine.”

On April 20, 2006, the President proclaimed May as Jewish American Heritage Month for the first time. The President’s proclamation was the culmination of efforts that were led by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz in the House and Sen. Arlen Specter in the Senate in the 109th Congress. Since then, communities across the country have been celebrating it each May. The Jewish community of South Florida originally inspired the creation of Jewish American Heritage Month. The idea began with the aim of reducing intolerance and bigotry by raising awareness and understanding.

“As Jews, we make up only two percent of our nation’s population. In fact, most Americans have had few interactions with the Jewish community and our traditions. It is my hope, that by educating non-Jewish Americans about our contributions to the nation and our culture, we will be able to reduce the ignorance that ultimately leads to hatred and anti-Semitism,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz.

Jewish American Heritage Month aims to create a national conversation about Jewish identity in the United States, and keeps a spirit of education and open-mindedness alive, celebrating the importance of the multi-cultural fabric that comprises this country. Through better understanding, Jewish American Heritage Month will not only influence Americans’ perspective of Jews, but all minorities as well. The 2010 celebration will be marked with more than 70 events around the country. More information about these events and the history of Jewish life in America can be found on the official Jewish American Heritage Web site: www.jahm.us

On April 30, 2010, President Obama made an official proclamation of this year’s Jewish American Heritage Month. The full text can be read below:

 

The White House

Presidential Proclamation–Jewish American Heritage Month

A PROCLAMATION

In 1883, the Jewish American poet Emma Lazarus composed a sonnet, entitled “The New Colossus,” to help raise funds for erecting the Statue of Liberty. Twenty years later, a plaque was affixed to the completed statue, inscribed with her words: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free….” These poignant words still speak to us today, reminding us of our Nation’s promise as a beacon to all who are denied freedom and opportunity in their native lands.

Our Nation has always been both a haven and a home for Jewish Americans. Countless Jewish immigrants have come to our shores seeking better lives and opportunities, from those who arrived in New Amsterdam long before America’s birth, to those of the past century who sought refuge from the horrors of pogroms and the Holocaust. As they have immeasurably enriched our national culture, Jewish Americans have also maintained their own unique identity. During Jewish American Heritage Month we celebrate this proud history and honor the invaluable contributions Jewish Americans have made to our Nation.

The Jewish American story is an essential chapter of the American narrative. It is one of refuge from persecution; of commitment to service, faith, democracy, and peace; and of tireless work to achieve success. As leaders in every facet of American life — from athletics, entertainment, and the arts to academia, business, government, and our Armed Forces — Jewish Americans have shaped our Nation and helped steer the course of our history. We are a stronger and more hopeful country because so many Jews from around the world have made America their home.

Today, Jewish Americans carry on their culture’s tradition of “tikkun olam” — or “to repair the world” — through good deeds and service. As they honor and maintain their ancient heritage, they set a positive example for all Americans and continue to strengthen our Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2010 as Jewish American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month with appropriate programs, activities, and ceremonies to celebrate the heritage and contributions of Jewish Americans.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.

BARACK OBAMA

www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/presidential-proclamation-jewish-american-heritage-month