[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 19 (Monday, May 12, 2003)]
[Page 531]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7673--Jewish Heritage Week, 2003

May 2, 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.
    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

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 6, 2003]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on May 7. 
This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate 
issue.