WASSERMAN SCHULTZ STATEMENT ON JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

Washington, DC – U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-23) issued the following statement today in observance of Jewish American Heritage Month, which is proclaimed annually in May by the President of the United States:

“This May, our nation marks the tenth anniversary of Jewish American Heritage Month. JAHM is an opportunity for all Americans to promote awareness of the contributions American Jews have made, and continue to make, to our nation.

“In 2005, I proudly cosponsored the original resolution, together with 250 cosponsors, that created JAHM, and I was even prouder when it passed both Houses of Congress. In 2006, President Bush signed the first presidential proclamation declaring the first annual Jewish American Heritage Month.

“Since its inception, JAHM has educated Americans from all over the country about Jewish contributions throughout American history, in order to raise awareness and dispel harmful prejudices about our community. Like so many others in this great nation, many Jewish Americans arrived on these shores fleeing persecution and prejudice, and seeking liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Like so many of those in search of a better life, they have enhanced the fabric of our nation, with contributions to the sciences, the arts, social justice and public life – to name a few.

“This year, the theme of JAHM is to highlight Jewish contributions to American education. From Julius Rosenwald, who invested in education for black children in the rural South, to my Congressional colleague, former elementary school teacher Jan Schakowsky, Jewish Americans have contributed greatly to education throughout our history at every level. Please join me in celebrating Jewish American heritage throughout the month of May!

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