[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.

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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