HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda 05-05-2026; 8-f - Jewish American Heritage Month Proclamation 1
ORANGE COUNTY
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT
Meeting Date: May 5, 2026
Action Agenda
Item No. 8-f
SUBJECT: Jewish American Heritage Month Proclamation
DEPARTMENT: Office of Civil Rights and Civic
Life
ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT:
Proclamation Paul Slack, 919-245-2317
PURPOSE: To approve a proclamation designating May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage
Month in Orange County.
BACKGROUND: Jewish American Heritage Month has its roots in the long-standing efforts to
recognize and celebrate the contributions of Jewish Americans to the fabric of United States
history, culture, and civic life. In April 2006, President George W. Bush issued the first
proclamation designating May as Jewish American Heritage Month, following bipartisan efforts in
Congress led by Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Senator Arlen Specter. Their
initiative built on earlier educational campaigns aimed at increasing awareness of Jewish
American experiences and achievements across generations.
The month of May was chosen to commemorate the arrival of the first Jewish settlers to what
would become the United States in 1654, when a group of 23 Jewish refugees fled persecution
in Brazil and arrived in New Amsterdam (present-day New York City). Since then, Jewish
Americans have played vital roles in shaping the nation — contributing to science, the arts,
government, business, social justice movements, and more — while also preserving rich cultural
and religious traditions.
Each year, Jewish American Heritage Month serves as an opportunity to honor these enduring
contributions and to reflect on themes of resilience, identity, and belonging.
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with consideration of the
proclamation.
ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports:
• GOAL 5: PUBLIC EDUCATION/LEARNING COMMUNITY
OBJECTIVE 1. Foster collaborative relationships with formal and informal educational
organizations and agencies to provide opportunities for community members to meet,
connect, and learn together.
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• GOAL 6: DIVERSE AND VIBRANT ECONOMY
OBJECTIVE 1. Provide family-oriented and inclusive programming or other cultural events
for residents and visitors.
RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve the proclamation
and authorize the Chair to sign the proclamation.
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ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Jewish American Heritage Month is celebrated annually in May to honor the
generations of Jewish Americans who have contributed to the history and culture of our nation,
from its very origin 250 years ago; and
WHEREAS, Jewish Americans have made significant contributions to North Carolina's economic
development entrepreneurship, business leadership and innovation, playing a key role in
building a thriving local economy; and
WHEREAS, the Jewish community has played a lead role in North Carolina's arts and culture,
supporting institutions, artists and events that celebrate creativity and foster cross-cultural
appreciation; and
WHEREAS, Jewish Americans have shaped both K-12 and higher education in North Carolina
by advocating for high-quality education for all, establishing schools and scholarships, serving
as educators and mentors who inspire the next generation; and
WHEREAS, Jewish Americans have honorably served in the United States military,
demonstrating courage, patriotism and a commitment to protecting the constitutional rights and
freedoms we hold dear, and in government dedicating themselves to helping others; and
WHEREAS, Jewish physicians, researchers, and health care professionals have made critical
contributions to medicine, health care, and science in North Carolina, while improving lives and
advancing the well-being of the entire community; and
WHEREAS, the Jewish community in North Carolina has established cultural institutions,
synagogues, and organizations that have enriched the state's religious, social and cultural fabric
while educating and serving the public, fostering dialogue and mutual understanding among
groups and promoting a welcoming and inclusive community for all residents; and
WHEREAS, recognizing and celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month reaffirms our state's
commitment to combatting prejudice, standing strong against antisemitism and promoting unity
among all North Carolina's residents;
NOW, THEREFORE, we, the Board of County Commissioners of Orange County, North
Carolina, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2026, as JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE
MONTH and encourage our residents, community organizations, schools, and institutions to
participate in programs and activities that honor Jewish American contributions to our history
and present, celebrate their achievements, and inspire future generations of Jewish Americans.
THIS THE 5t" DAY OF MAY, 2026.
Jean Hamilton, Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners