    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 117, 108th Congress, 1st Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    Proclamation 7673 of May 2, 2003

    Jewish Heritage Week, 2003

    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    The extraordinary heritage of Jewish Americans reflects the strength and
    spirit of our Nation. Their deep family and community ties and strong
    religious traditions exemplify America's cultural diversity. Jewish
    Heritage Week provides an opportunity to recognize the contributions of
    Jewish Americans to our country and to celebrate their commitment to
    faith, family, and freedom.
    The Jewish people began their search for freedom more than 3,000 years
    ago. From the struggle of the Exodus, to the miracle of the Maccabees,
    to the horrors of the Holocaust, to the creation of the democratic State
    of Israel, Jews have faced and survived many challenges. Jews draw on
    their faith to provide hope for the future.

    [[Page 3039]]
    117 STAT. 3039

    For centuries, Jews have immigrated to the United States to realize
    their dreams and enjoy the blessings of religious tolerance and
    individual liberty. Today, Jewish Americans play an important role in
    the success and growth of our country. Their accomplishments in
    education, industry, science, art, literature, and dozens of other
    fields have strengthened our Nation and enriched our culture.
    Throughout their history, Jewish Americans have demonstrated that
    goodness can overcome evil. Guided by moral principles, they bring to
    our Nation a rich heritage that recognizes the dignity of every citizen
    and the possibilities of every life. Countless Jewish charitable
    organizations are helping serve the men, women, and children across our
    country who are in need. Their works of kindness and mercy help to build
    a more generous and compassionate Nation.
    During this week, we also recognize the many Jewish Americans serving in
    our Armed Forces who are working to rid the world of terror and bring
    freedom and justice to the oppressed. Every generation of Americans must
    rise to meet its own challenges, and this generation of Jewish Americans
    is standing strong to defend our freedoms and help make America a land
    of opportunity for all.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 4 through May 11,
    2003, as Jewish Heritage Week. I urge all Americans to learn more about
    the rich history of Jewish Americans and to celebrate their contribution
    to our cultural diversity.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of May,
    in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the Independence of
    the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh.
    GEORGE W. BUSH