[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