ATLANTA – State Representative Sheila Jones (D-Atlanta) encourages citizens in House District 60 to join with her in recognizing Jewish Heritage Month this May.
“Every May, we commemorate Jewish American Heritage Month to celebrate and honor the contributions of Jewish Americans in our history,” said Rep. Jones. “Imbued with a legacy and collective memory of violent persecution across the globe, Jews have long found hope in America’s promise of freedom, justice, opportunity and religious liberty. The heritage, culture and contributions of the Jewish community add to the diverse tapestry of American society. As we honor the legacies and achievements of generations of Jews in America, we also must dedicate ourselves to learning about ongoing struggles with antisemitism in our society and commit to mitigating this pernicious hate.”
According to the American Jewish Committee, the first American Jews arrived in 1654 when a group of 23 men, women and children fled Brazil due to persecution. For 369 years, Jewish Americans have worked to contribute to the U.S., including serving in government and the military. Jewish Americans have won Nobel prizes, headed universities and corporations, advanced the medical and health care fields, created and performed enduring works of art, written notable American novels, become emblems of justice as members of the U.S. Supreme Court and more.
May was first proclaimed Jewish American Heritage Month by President George W. Bush in April 2006.
For more information on Jewish Heritage Month, please click here.
Representative Sheila Jones represents the citizens of District 60, which includes portions of Fulton County (the City of Atlanta and the City of South Fulton). She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2004 and currently serves on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Higher Education. She also serves on the Health, Juvenile Justice and Transportation committees.
###