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A resolution recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) was unanimously passed with a 419-0 vote by the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday.
The resolution — which can be read in full HERE — was initiated by Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), and Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01).
Representative Wasserman Schultz told JNS on Wednesday that “making sure that the House of Representatives is united in expressing its opposition and concerns about antisemitism and supporting and celebrating the contribution to the Jewish people to the success of America, especially in the 250th anniversary, is really important.”
The Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) was among the dozen Jewish organizations that endorsed the resolution after its introduction two weeks ago.
CAM President of U.S. Affairs Alyza Lewin stated, “For 250 years, Jewish Americans have had an indelible impact on society, helping shape national identity through contributions in science, medicine, business, law, public service, media, sports, and entertainment. We commend this bipartisan resolution as a powerful affirmation of the integral role Jews have played in the great American story, and we thank Congress for honoring the richness of Jewish American life and sending a clear message that antisemitism has no place in the United States.”
The operative clauses of the resolution follow —
The House of Representatives:
— calls on elected officials, faith leaders, and civil society leaders to condemn and counter all acts of antisemitism;
— calls on the executive branch and State and local leaders to educate the public on the contributions of the Jewish-American community and uplift Jewish stories and voices;
— takes all possible steps to ensure the safety, security, and dignity of Jewish Americans in all aspects of their lives, including the workplace, college and university campuses, synagogues, and at home;
— honors the contributions of Jewish-American servicemembers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to protect freedom;
— and commits to protecting religious freedom in America by ensuring all Americans, including Jewish Americans, can worship without fear of violence or persecution.
Next week, CAM will host its annual JAHM Congressional Breakfast at the U.S. Capitol, with a large group of lawmakers from both sides of the political aisle expected to attend.
Recently, CAM hosted a JAHM kick-off celebration in Savannah, Georgia, with mayors from 50 cities across the United States participating.
CAM annually promotes JAHM recognitions nationwide, and last year more than 200 U.S. cities issued official JAHM proclamations.
