Bush declares Jewish Heritage Month

President Bush proclaimed May to be Jewish American Heritage Month. “The faith and hard work of Jewish Americans have played an integral role in shaping the cultural fabric of America,” Bush said in the proclamation issued Monday evening. “Throughout our history, Jewish Americans have contributed to the strength of our country and the preservation of our values. The talent and imagination of these citizens have helped our Nation prosper, and their efforts continue to remind us of America’s gift of religious freedom and the blessings of God’s steadfast love. Jewish Americans have worked to promote civil rights and build bridges of mutual understanding among the world’s religions. Their deep commitment to faith and strong ties to family enrich our country and set a positive example for others.” Jeremy Katz, Bush’s liaison to the Jewish community, read the proclamation at a Capitol Hill event sponsored by the United Jewish Communities, among other groups. Also speaking at the event was U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), who initiated the legislation creating the heritage month. The Democratic National Committee also issued a statement marking the month. “For more than 350 years Jewish Americans have been an integral part of helping the United States grow and flourish,” said the statement by DNC chairman Howard Dean and vice-chairwoman Susan Turnbull, who is Jewish.