Mayor Barbara Jo Blain-Bellamy proclaims May 2023 as Jewish American Heritage Month

Since 2006, each President of the United States has recognized the month of May as Jewish American Heritage month. The intent of Jewish American Heritage Month is to celebrate nearly four hundred years of contributions to American culture made by Jewish Americans and to admonish antisemitic beliefs and practices. The Anti-Defamation League, which has tracked reports of antisemitic incidents since 1979, reports the highest number of attacks against Jewish people at an all-time high in 2021. Our Jewish friends and neighbors, like all others, deserve to feel safe and welcome in their homes, workplaces, schools, and neighborhoods.

The resurgence of antisemitism ultimately threatens all who value human dignity, inclusion and compassion. The recognition of Jewish American Heritage Month allows us the opportunity to offer hope and positivity as we celebrate the vibrant and vital enrichment our Jewish neighbors and friends have brought into our lives, our city, and to our nation.