Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) is an annual celebration in the United States during May.
It recognizes and honors the contributions of Jewish Americans to the country’s history, culture, and society. The idea for JAHM was proposed by Senator Arlen Specter and Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz in 2005 to appreciate the achievements of Jewish Americans in various fields. President George W. Bush signed the legislation into law in 2006, and since then, a presidential proclamation is issued each year to officially recognize and celebrate the month.
JAHM includes events like lectures, film screenings, art exhibitions, and musical performances, providing an opportunity to learn about Jewish culture and traditions. It encourages reflection on shared values of freedom, diversity, and religious pluralism, and highlights the contributions and ongoing work of Jewish Americans in shaping the country. The celebration serves as a platform to promote cultural understanding, dialogue, and the preservation of Jewish American history. Overall, recognizing, and commemorating JAHM acknowledges the strength and resilience of the Jewish American community and their enriching impact on the United States.