Jewish American Month is an annual recognition and celebration of American Jews’ achievements and contributions to the United States of America during the month of May. President George W. Bush first proclaimed the month on April 20, 2006, as a result of cooperation with Senator Arlan Spector (R-PA), as well as the Jewish Museam of Florida and the South Florida Jewish Community. Since then, annual proc;amations have been made by Presidents Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden.

In 2020, the National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia repositioned Jewish American Heritage Month to empower communities across the country to celebrate the inspiring history of Jewish people in America; educate diverse public audiences about Jewish culture; and spark crucial conversations about the American Jewish present and future.

President Bush wanted to proclaim a month that recohnize the more than 350-year history of Jewish contributions to American culture. On February 14, 2006, Congress issued House Concurrent Resolution 315 which stated:

“Resolved…that Congress urges the President to issue each year a proclamation calling on State and local governments and the people of the United States to observe an American Jewish History Month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.”

JAHM enables the exploration of the meaning of religious pluralism, cultural diversity, and particpation in American civic culture.

A similar month exists in Florida as Florida Jewish History Month but it occurs in January.

I remember when Sandy Koufax refused to pitch on Yom Kippur.