Jewish American Heritage Month, 2010

Proclamation 8513 of April 30, 2010

Jewish American Heritage Month, 2010

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

In 1883, the Jewish American poet Emma Lazarus composed
a sonnet, entitled ``The New Colossus,'' to help raise
funds for erecting the Statue of Liberty. Twenty years
later, a plaque was affixed to the completed statue,
inscribed with her words: ``Give me your tired, your
poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe
free....'' These poignant words still speak to us
today, reminding us of our Nation's promise as a beacon
to all who are denied freedom and opportunity in their
native lands.

Our Nation has always been both a haven and a home for
Jewish Americans. Countless Jewish immigrants have come
to our shores seeking better lives and opportunities,
from those who arrived in New Amsterdam long before
America's birth, to those of the past century who
sought refuge from the horrors of pogroms and the
Holocaust. As they have immeasurably enriched our
national culture, Jewish Americans have also maintained
their own unique identity. During Jewish American
Heritage Month we celebrate this proud history and
honor the invaluable contributions Jewish Americans
have made to our Nation.

The Jewish American story is an essential chapter of
the American narrative. It is one of refuge from
persecution; of commitment to service, faith,
democracy, and peace; and of tireless work to achieve
success. As leaders in every facet of American life--
from athletics, entertainment, and the arts to
academia, business, government, and our Armed Forces--
Jewish Americans have shaped our Nation and helped
steer the course of our history. We are a stronger and
more hopeful country because so many Jews from around
the world have made America their home.

Today, Jewish Americans carry on their culture's
tradition of ``tikkun olam''--or ``to repair the
world''--through good deeds and service. As they honor
and maintain their ancient heritage, they set a
positive example for all Americans and continue to
strengthen our Nation.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim May 2010 as Jewish
American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to
observe this month with appropriate programs,
activities, and ceremonies to celebrate the heritage
and contributions of Jewish Americans.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
thirtieth day of April, in the year two thousand ten,
and of the Independence of the United States of America
the two hundred and thirty-fourth.