A Moment in Time: “How Might American Jewish Heritage Month Motivate Me?“

In 2006, President George W. Bush proclaimed May to be “American Jewish Heritage Month.”

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Rabbi Zach Shapiro

May 4, 2023

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Dear all,

In 2006, President George W. Bush proclaimed May to be “American Jewish Heritage Month.” (Click here to read the proclamation of the current administration). The designation makes me pause as I am grateful for the opportunities Jews have enjoyed in the United States that have been unparalleled in world history. Further, I am proud of the impact American Jews (or is it “Jewish Americans”?) have had.

I don’t take either for granted.

Nor can I rest being simply grateful.

I have to ask, “what, now, is my role?” How will this month of honoring our heritage motivate me to make a difference as well – as a Jew?

While May is our month in time to be proud. Right now is our moment in time to take action, so that we become the ancestors of American Jews/Jewish Americans who will continue to be love our faith and culture!

With love and shalom.

Rabbi Zach Shapiro