Jewish American Heritage Month
Each year, during this month, hundreds of organizations along with many individuals set time aside to learn, discover, enjoy and celebrate the varied and vibrant experience of Jewish Americans from the beginning of the US up through the present day. This event, often shortened to JAHM, can be celebrated and enjoyed...
Leverage Jewish American Heritage Month to drive educational programming, museum visits, and cultural awareness campaigns that celebrate heritage and foster community inclusion.
- Plan a family or school trip to a historic Jewish American site this May
- Share your Jewish American heritage story on social media to inspire others
- Host a workplace event celebrating Jewish American contributions to culture and society
- Explore the impact of Jewish Americans on US history through educational content
This event has roots dating back more than 40 years, when Jewish Heritage Week was founded by a joint resolution of Congress) and declared by President Jimmy Carter in 1980 to be celebrated in late April.
In 2006, it was expanded to become Jewish American Heritage Month, through bi-partisan efforts in the US Congress and with a proclamation by President George W. Bush.
The purpose of this event is to show appreciation for and honor the contributions and achievements of Jewish Americans. At the same time, the desire is also to educate all Americans about the impact and important role that Jewish Americans play in culture and society.
Visit a Jewish American Historical Site
One excellent way to get involved with JAHM is to head over to an important site that will lend itself to learning more about Jewish American heritage. Bring the whole family or schedule a trip with the school classroom to bring enlightenment to the next generation. Here are a few famous and important locations: United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DCNew York City Tenement MuseumWeitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Congregation Sherith Israel in San Francisco, California
Share About Jewish American Heritage
Those who either have Jewish American heritage themselves or who are learning about it in honor of this month can share with others to improve awareness. Host a personal event, share it with people at work, or get online and make a social media post to promote inclusiveness and learning about different backgrounds and cultures. Similar to Black History Month, this is an ideal time to become better learners, improve communication and make the world a better place for everyone!