Contact: Brendan Daly/Nadeam Elshami/Drew Hammill, 202-226-7616
Washington, D.C. – Speaker Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in recognition of Jewish American Heritage Month, which is celebrated throughout the month of May:
"The story of Jewish Americans is a story of growth and opportunity. Out of the flames of persecution, they came to our shores seeking a better life, a safe haven, and a place to practice their faith and pursue their dreams. Out of the shadow of discrimination around the world, they built a thriving, passionate, active, and committed community in the heart of our nation. Out of a history too often defined by fear, they found a bastion of hope, diversity, and religious freedom – and came to play a central role in our nation’s history and heritage.
"Jewish American Heritage Month is a chance to honor the contributions of the Jewish people to the strength and success of the United States. In law and literature, science and medicine, athletics and academia, they have enriched our country and our culture. In public service, they have promoted the values central to both Jewish and American history: perfecting the world, pursuing justice, extending a helping hand to those in need, securing peace, and ensuring the welfare of our fellow human beings.
"Over more than three centuries, Jewish Americans have made our nation and our people stronger. May this Jewish American Heritage Month afford us each the opportunity to celebrate this community, rejoice in its success, and recommit ourselves to the ideals of religious liberty for all Americans."