Hello everyone, my name is Abby and I want to take a moment to wish you all a happy Jewish American Heritage Month. Since 2006, May has been designated as a time to celebrate the unique contributions that Jewish Americans have made to the United States throughout our history. Jewish Americans have left their mark in countless fields, from science and math to music, movies, and politics. This May, let’s come together to honor the lasting impact of Jewish Americans on our nation’s history by exploring a few key areas where they have made significant contributions.

First and foremost, Jewish Americans have been at the forefront of social activism, advocating for civil rights, social justice, and humanitarian causes. Notable figures like Emma Lazarus, whose iconic poem “The New Colossus” is inscribed on the Statue of Liberty, have inspired generations with their literary contributions and advocacy for immigration. Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the second woman to serve on the US Supreme Court, dedicated her career to fighting for gender equality and justice, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s history. Other prominent Jewish activists include Gloria Steinem, a leading voice for women’s rights, Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California who championed LGBTQ+ rights, and Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, who marched alongside Martin Luther King Jr. in the civil rights movements.

Jewish American Heritage Month also provides an opportunity to appreciate the diversity within the Jewish community. Jews come from various backgrounds, reflecting a rich tapestry of traditions, customs, and experiences. Whether Ashkenazi, Mizrahi, or Sephardic, each group brings its own unique cultural practices and traditions while sharing a common Jewish identity. From colonial times to waves of Eastern European immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Jewish Americans have enriched the cultural mosaic of American cities. This diversity highlights the broader narrative of acceptance and inclusivity in the development of the United States.

In the arts and sciences, Jewish Americans have excelled throughout history. Nobel Prize-winning biochemists Gertrude Elion and Jonas Salk, creator of the polio vaccine, have saved countless lives through their groundbreaking work in medicine. Albert Einstein, one of the greatest physicists of the 20th century, revolutionized our understanding of the universe with his theories of relativity. In entertainment, figures like Stan Lee, the creator of Marvel Comics, and Steven Spielberg, a prolific filmmaker, have left an indelible impact on popular culture, showcasing the immense influence of Jewish Americans in the arts.

Jewish American Heritage Month serves as a reminder for all of us to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the specific contributions of Jewish Americans to our nation. By recognizing and embracing diversity, we strengthen the foundation of our shared American identity. Let us use this month to foster understanding, promote inclusivity, and honor the enduring legacy of Jewish Americans. If you are interested in bringing education about Jewish American history to your community, visit standwithus.com/jahm. Together, let’s celebrate the rich tapestry of Jewish American heritage and the indelible mark they have left on our nation’s history.