In a joint statement issued on Thursday recognizing May as Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM), all 26 Republican governors in the United States denounced antisemitism and reiterated their backing for the State of Israel.
The Republican Governors Association (RGA) initiative was led by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds and Tennessee Governor Bill Lee, as part of a broader effort spearheaded by the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) to increase awareness about the contributions of Jewish Americans to U.S. society at a time of rising antisemitism. CAM also helped facilitate JAHM proclamations by three Democratic governors.
“As public servants and governors, we support and recognize May as Jewish American Heritage Month — and call for observance to celebrate the historical, economic, and cultural impact of the Jewish-American people who have strengthened our communities and emboldened our nation throughout history,” the RGA statement said.
“We’re proud of the United States being the first country to recognize the State of Israel,” it continued. “Since then, we’ve fostered an unbreakable bond between our two nations based upon shared values, ultimately leading to prosperous economic, educational, and cultural partnerships.”
“We stand with our constituencies who oppose antisemitism, and we affirm the significance of Jewish-American contributions throughout U.S. history,” the Republican governors concluded.
All 26 Republican governors currently in office in the US have signed a joint statement recognizing May as Jewish American Heritage Month and taking a stand against antisemitism.
We thank @IAGovernor & @GovBillLee for leading this important initiative.https://t.co/1oQPZLqP0c
— Combat Antisemitism Movement (@CombatASemitism) April 27, 2023
The RGA proclamation was issued the same day dozens of U.S. lawmakers gathered on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., for a congressional breakfast — hosted by CAM marking Jewish American Heritage Month.
