[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 74 (Tuesday, May 6, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E827]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            IN RECOGNITION OF JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

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                           HON. RAHM EMANUEL

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                          Tuesday, May 6, 2008

  Mr. EMANUEL. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Jewish 
American Heritage Month.
  In 2006, Congress unanimously passed H. Con. Res. 315, a resolution 
urging the President to issue a proclamation for the observance of an 
American Jewish History Month. I was an original co-sponsor of that 
important legislation, and following our action, President Bush 
proclaimed May as Jewish American Heritage Month as a means of 
celebrating the Jewish community's history in America in addition to 
their contributions to American culture. On April 29, 2008, President 
Bush reaffirmed his commitment of celebrating Jewish American heritage 
by making May 2008 Jewish American Heritage Month.
  Since 1654, the American Jews have contributed to American life and 
society in all walks of life. The achievements of American Jews span 
all fields including medicine, law, entertainment, public service, 
technology, and literature. I take this time to celebrate those who 
have served our nation and propelled it successfully into the 21st 
century.
  Throughout more than 350 years, American Jewish culture has become 
intertwined with American culture. The Jewish faith and spirit in 
combination with Jewish history and culture serve as an integral part 
of what this nation is today.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud to commemorate Jewish American Heritage 
Month and hope that my colleagues will join me in celebrating the 
American Jewish community and its commitment to enriching American 
society and culture.

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