Jewish American Heritage Month

Every year May is Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) in recognition of the indelible contributions American Jews have made, and continue to make, to our nation’s history, culture, and society. 

Jewish American Heritage Month had its origins starting in 1980 when Congress passed Pub. L. 96-237 which authorized and requested the President to issue a proclamation designating a week in April or May as Jewish Heritage Week. The week-long honoring of Jewish Americans ended in 2006 when President Bush issued the first Presidential Proclamation on April 20, 2006 which designated May 2006 as Jewish American Heritage Month. 

Since 2007 all Presidents have issued proclamations for Jewish American Heritage Month.  These proclamations celebrate the contributions of Jewish Americans and urge the people of the United States to learn more about Jewish Americans.

How to Honor Jewish American Heritage Month

• Visit a Jewish Museum: in person or virtual
• Holocast Center for Humanity in Seattle - open Sundays!
• Take some extra time to explore The Jewish Museum’s audio and video tours. Some highlights are the Kids and Families Audio Tour (ages 6 and up) and video tour of Lawrence Weiner: ALL THE STARS IN THE SKY HAVE THE SAME FACE.
• "Only in America" Stories by the National Museum of American Jewish History. Jews have experienced unprecedented freedoms in America even in the face of antisemitism. Here are stories of extraordinary individuals who illustrate the epitome of what's possible when someone is given the chance to dream, dare, and do. A few key highlighted individuals are: Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Albert Einstein. 
• Learn about North American Jewish History
• Take this 10-question quiz to find out how much you already know, and maybe learn something new! You can also explore the Jewish American Heritage Month website to learn more about Jewish American heritage and history.
• Bake challah
• Check out “All Things Challah” for 14 favorite challah recipes plus helpful hacks for baking, braiding, and more. Here’s to inspiring your own venture into the world of making challah!
• Research your family's history
• Try to determine when the first members of your family immigrated to America, then create a family tree for future family members to cherish. Take it a step further by recording an interview with your oldest living relatives to create a digital record of your family’s history.

Help Provide Books Focused on Jewish American Heritage

During the month of May, our DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee) will be continuing our Windows & Mirrors Book Drive in support and honor Jewish American Heritage Month! ALL BOOKS PURCHASED WILL BENEFIT CANYON CREEK CLASSROOMS AND LIBRARY.

Find more details about this book drive and how you can help.

We want to bring attention to
National Observances & Commemorative Months
as well as UN International Days.
Check out our article about this!