IAC360 | IAC | Jewish American Heritage Month

Jewish American Heritage Month is observed every year in May across the United States.
In 2006, President George W. Bush officially proclaimed May as Jewish American Heritage Month, recognizing and honoring the rich history, culture, leadership, and significant contributions of Jewish Americans to American society, public life, science, education, the arts, civil rights, innovation, and civic leadership.

The IAC community from coast to coast has an important role to play in raising awareness and encouraging the creation of events, exhibitions, and public recognition of this month. Attached are educational materials that you can use to enrich your own understanding and share with schools or other educational institutions.

Overview of the early Jewish presence in colonial America Examination of Jewish contributions to colonial society Key figures and events in the early Jewish American experience
The push-and-pull factors of Jewish immigration to America Watch Here

Exploration of the development of Jewish communities in urban centers Overview of Jewish cultural, religious, and communal life in the 19th century The evolution of immigration: Boston’s Jewish Quarter, NY’s Lower East Side The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire Watch Here

Examination of the tension and racism between assimilation and cultural preservation
Antisemitism 1898–1941
Refugee challenges on the brink of war in America and in Europe
Analysis of the rise of Jewish religious movements and denominations Watch Here

The evolution of the Jewish American identity Overview of Jewish contributions to American culture, arts, and sciences Antisemitism and the tragedies of the 21st century: Charlottesville, Tree of Life, Blaze Bernstein
Post October 7th-challenges with universities and social media Watch Here

Help Recognize Jewish American Heritage Month in Schools & Public Libraries!

The IAC is calling on community members across the country to take simple action: reach out to your child’s school, a local school, or your public library and encourage them to recognize this important month through book displays, classroom activities, educational resources, reading lists, and community programs.

📚 For Public Libraries:
👉 Open the attached letter
👉 Add your name, city, and local library name
👉 Send it to your local public library

🏫 For Schools:
👉 Open the email template and add a school contact in your child’s school or local area
👉 Attach the PDF resource sheet
👉 Send it to the school
A simple email can create real visibility and lasting recognition💙