    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8513--APR. 30, 2010

    Proclamation 8513 of April 30, 2010
    Jewish American Heritage Month, 2010
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    In 1883, the Jewish American poet Emma Lazarus composed a sonnet,
    entitled ``The New Colossus,'' to help raise funds for erecting the
    Statue of Liberty. Twenty years later, a plaque was affixed to the
    completed statue, inscribed with her words: ``Give me your tired, your
    poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free....'' These poignant
    words still speak to us today, reminding us of our Nation's promise as a
    beacon to all who are denied freedom and opportunity in their native
    lands.
    Our Nation has always been both a haven and a home for Jewish Americans.
    Countless Jewish immigrants have come to our shores seeking better lives
    and opportunities, from those who arrived in New Amsterdam long before
    America's birth, to those of the past century who sought refuge from the
    horrors of pogroms and the Holocaust. As they have immeasurably enriched
    our national culture, Jewish Americans have also maintained their own
    unique identity. During Jewish American Heritage Month we celebrate this
    proud history and honor the invaluable contributions Jewish Americans
    have made to our Nation.
    The Jewish American story is an essential chapter of the American
    narrative. It is one of refuge from persecution; of commitment to
    service, faith, democracy, and peace; and of tireless work to achieve
    success. As leaders in every facet of American life--from athletics,
    entertain-

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    ment, and the arts to academia, business, government, and our Armed
    Forces--Jewish Americans have shaped our Nation and helped steer the
    course of our history. We are a stronger and more hopeful country
    because so many Jews from around the world have made America their home.
    Today, Jewish Americans carry on their culture's tradition of ``tikkun
    olam''--or ``to repair the world''--through good deeds and service. As
    they honor and maintain their ancient heritage, they set a positive
    example for all Americans and continue to strengthen our Nation.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2010 as Jewish
    American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to observe this month
    with appropriate programs, activities, and ceremonies to celebrate the
    heritage and contributions of Jewish Americans.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
    April, in the year two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the
    United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
    BARACK OBAMA