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(Washington, DC) -- The cultural contributions of American Jews will be recognized throughout the month of May, as the United States officially recognizes the second annual Jewish American Heritage Month.
The purpose of Jewish American Heritage Month is to promote understanding of the many contributions American Jews have made to the fabric of American life, from technology and literature, to entertainment, politics and medicine. As Jews make up only two percent of our nation's population, most Americans have had few interactions with Jews and our traditions. It is my hope that by providing the framework for the discussion of Jewish culture and contributions to our nation, we will be able to reduce the ignorance that ultimately leads to anti-Semitism.
As South Floridians, we should take great pride in the fact that the inspiration to create a Jewish American Heritage Month originated in South Florida. The idea began with the decision to reduce intolerance and bigotry by raising awareness and understanding. Creating a special month to honor the many contributions of American Jews to our society seemed like a long overdue and obvious undertaking. We recognize many different months here in the United States, from Asian and Pacific Islander Month, to Black History Month, to Women's History Month. However, the legislation faced a tough road in Washington because the House of Representatives had enacted a moratorium on the designation of months for national observances. After working for several months to secure 250 co-sponsors for a resolution to urge the President to proclaim this special month, I reached out to Senator Arlen Specter (R-PA) to lead the same effort in the Senate. The resolution passed both Houses of Congress unanimously.
Finally, at a press conference on April 24, 2006, it was announced that President George W. Bush had issued a proclamation recognizing May as Jewish American Heritage Month. It was an historic occasion, giving hope for future generations to live without anti-Semitism through greater understanding and awareness of the significant role that American Jews have played in U.S. history.
Many Americans have little understanding of Jewish culture simply because the majority of Americans have few interactions with Jews and their traditions. The creation of Jewish American Heritage Month seeks to increase this awareness. Through a better understanding of Jewish culture, Jewish American Heritage Month will not only influence Americans' perspective of Jews, but all minorities as well. It is my wish that the creation of Jewish American Heritage Month will serve as a catalyst for educators and others to further the understanding of the role that Jews have played in American history.
To move Jewish American Heritage Month forward in the spirit in which it was formed a coalition of Jewish organizations was formed. I am confident that through its members, the Jewish American Heritage Month Coalition will plan and ensure implementation of programs and activities to educate the public about the American Jewish community's contributions to the history, heritage, and culture of the United States.
In order to institutionalize Jewish American Heritage Month around the country, Jewish communities must embrace this opportunity through discussions and creative programming. I respectfully ask you to share information about Jewish American Heritage Month with your neighbors and throughout your community during the month of May. The Web site of the Jewish American Heritage Month Coalition, www.JewishHeritage.us , provides valuable content, ideas for programming, and related links.
I am always glad to hear the comments and concerns of my constituents. If you have any questions or concerns or this or any other issue, please contact me in my Pembroke Pines office at (954) 437-3936, in Aventura at (305) 936-5724, or in Washington, D.C. at (202) 225-7931, or visit my Web site at www.house.gov/wassermanschultz and sign up for my electronic newsletter. |
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