6 | MAY 16 • 2024 J N proclamation Jewish American Heritage Month, May 2024 F or centuries, the per- severance, hope and unshakeable faith of the Jewish people have inspired people around the world. During Jewish American Heritage Month, we celebrate the immeasurable impact of Jewish values, contribu- tions and culture on our nation’s character and recommit to real- izing the promise of America for all Jewish Americans. In 1654, a small band of 23 Jewish refugees fled persecu- tion abroad and sailed into the port of modern-day New York City. They fought for reli- gious freedom, helping define one of the bedrock principles upon which our nation was built. Jewish American culture has been inextricably woven into the fabric of our country. Jewish American suffragists, activists and leaders marched for civil rights, women’s rights and voting rights. Jewish American scientists, doctors and engineers have made scientific breakthroughs that define America as a land of possibilities. They have served our nation in uniform, on the nation’s highest courts and at the highest levels of my admin- istration. As public servants, artists, entertainers, journalists and poets, they have helped write the story of America, making it — as Emma Lazarus’ poem on the Statue of Liberty states — a home for the “huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” As we celebrate the Jewish American community’s con- tributions this month, we also honor their resilience in the face of a long and painful his- tory of persecution. Hamas’ brutal terrorist attack on Oct. 7 against Israel marked the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust, resurfacing, includ- ing here in the United States, painful scars from millennia of antisemitism and genocide of Jewish people. Jews across the country and around the world are still cop- ing with the trauma and horror of that day and the months since. Our hearts are with all the victims, survivors, fami- lies and friends whose loved ones were killed, wounded, displaced or taken hostage — including women and girls whom Hamas has subjected to President Joe Biden Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff met with Jewish White House staff in celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month. THE WHITE HOUSE PURELY COMMENTARY continued on page XX 1942 - 2024 Covering and Connecting Jewish Detroit Every Week To make a donation to the DETROIT JEWISH NEWS FOUNDATION go to the website www.thejewishnews.com The Detroit Jewish News (USPS 275-520) is published every Thursday at 32255 Northwestern Highway, #205, Farmington Hills, Michigan. Periodical postage paid at Southfield, Michigan, and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: send changes to: Detroit Jewish News, 32255 Northwestern Highway, #205, Farmington Hills, Michigan 48334 MISSION STATEMENT The Detroit Jewish News will be of service to the Jewish community. 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