Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) is a time to celebrate the contributions of Jewish Americans to American culture, history, military, science, government, and more since they first arrived in New Amsterdam in 1654. The Library of Congress exhibition From Haven to Home: 350 Years of Jewish Life in America is an excellent starting point for delving into this history.

Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History provides valuable resources for observing JAHM. Additional Jewish History & Heritage primary source materials are available from Primary Source Nexus.

JAHM had its origins in 1980 when Congress passed Pub. L. 96-237, authorizing the President to issue a proclamation designating a week in April or May as Jewish Heritage Week.  Subsequently, Presidents George W. Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden have issued proclamations for Jewish American Heritage Month.

In light of recent difficult and troubling times faced by American Jews, the observance of JAHM in 2024 is especially important.  The resources contained in this album will hopefully prove engaging for learners and challenge them to further explore the rich cultural heritage of the American Jewish community.

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