JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

April 30, 2026April 3, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 4 Comments

Jewish American Heritage Month in May reflects on the contributions of the Jewish people to a young and growing Nation over its almost 250-year history. Like many in the United States, their culture and history go far beyond the founding date of the country. The Jewish people began establishing families, businesses, synagogues and contributing to their communities long before 1776.

In every sector of the Nation, Jews have made vital contributions to the culture and molding of the country. Each generation made contributions that shaped who we are today. From the early progress of colonies deciding to raise arms against the British (Hyam Solomon) to our courts (Louis Brandeis and Elena Kagan), they continue to build upon the civilization their forefathers sought. Others brought their scientific knowledge (Albert Einstein and Jonas Salk) while a community of business leaders created foundations (Al Fleishman and Monroe Green). They also filled the world of arts with immense talent entertaining us (Woody Allen, Barbara Streisand, J.J. Abrams), creating classic compositions (Irving Berlin, Leonard Bernstein), or writing timeless works (Norman Mailer, Ayn Rand).

Jewish American Heritage Month also looks at the history of injustice the Jewish people have had to overcome for centuries, not just in America but around the world. It’s a time to reflect on the tragic conditions they suffered and at times continue to face. The observance also offers the opportunity to end anti-Semitism and learn the history behind it.

JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

Following resolutions passed by the House and Senate, in 2006, President George W. Bush proclaimed May to be Jewish American Heritage Month. His proclamation was the result of efforts by the Jewish Museum of Florida and South Florida Jewish community leaders.

Each year since then, the sitting president proclaims Jewish American Heritage Month in May.

More to explore…

Scottish-American Heritage
Caribbean American Heritage
Asain American and Pacific Islander Heritage
Gathering of Nations
Black History Month
African World Heritage
Juneteenth
Black Business Month
Black Poetry
Hispanic Heritage Month
German American Heritage
Native American Heritage
Irish American Heritage
Italian-American Heritage
Native American Heritage Day
Jewish American Heritage Month

HOW TO OBSERVE #JewishAmericanHeritageMonth

During Jewish American Heritage Month attend local events hosted by heritage centers, libraries, schools, and synagogs. These organizations host seminars, webinars and other events sharing the heritage, history, and culture of Jewish Americans. You can also take time to read books, memoirs or documentaries on the subject. Share your Jewish heritage and family history or speak at a local event.

Use #JewishAmericanHeritageMonth to share on social media.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH

March 31, 2026March 5, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 4 Comments

April recognizes all those who give there time and energy during National Volunteer Month. In the United States, volunteerism is instilled at a young age. In many parts of the country, it is the cornerstone of summer vacation or woven into after school programs. Most organizations in small towns, rural counties and the largest cities would not function without volunteers. In some families, the baton of volunteerism is handed down generation after generation.

Rural fire and ambulance departments remain staffed due to the efforts of volunteers. The underprivileged receive much needed medical care thanks to volunteers. Long overdue repairs and upgrades are made to a senior women’s home thanks to an organization’s annual call for donations and skilled workers. A woman answers a call on a suicide hotline because she cared enough to give up a few hours to train and listen to someone desperate and alone. A team sets up tables at a soup kitchen every week. Another group delivers meals to men and women who can no longer cook for themselves. Boys and girls sell ice cream sandwiches during a fair to raise money for a homeless shelter.

Volunteers come in all shapes and sizes. They pick a cause and make a difference in someone’s life. Sometimes the difference a drop in the bucket. Other times it creates a tidal wave of change. From the anonymous volunteers who donate their resources to those whose efforts are part of larger national organizations like 4-H, Boy and Girl Scouts of America, or American Red Cross or a local grassroots group, their missions provide valuable support to communities in times of need.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH HISTORY

President George H.W. Bush launch the 1000 Points of Light campaign in 1991 and established April as National Volunteer Month.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalVolunteerMonth

Thank a volunteer.
Volunteer! Many volunteers will tell you it is a rewarding experience.
You don’t have to have a ton of time.
Do you have a special talent or skill that may benefit a charity or organization? Offer your services or ask how you can be of help.
Use #NationalVolunteerMonth to share on social media.

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GOOD FRIDAY

March 28, 2024March 28, 2024Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

The Friday before Easter commemorates the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ in the Christian Faith and is called Good Friday.

Christians around the world recall the biblical story of Jesus’s crucifixion on this day. The day goes by other names as well, such as Holy Friday, Black Friday, and Great Friday. Though sources conflict, the phrase “Good Friday” may have been derived from “God’s Friday,” though sources conflict.

The observance is central to the Christian holy season that leads up to Easter when Jesus Christ was resurrected. While Easter has become a traditional celebration in the secular world, Good Friday has remained a holy and spiritual observance.

GOOD FRIDAY HISTORY

The celebration of Good Friday has been observed for centuries, some say since at least the 4th century.

Since Easter is based on the lunar calendar, Good Friday can happen anytime between March 20th and April 23rd depending upon when the first full moon occurs after the spring equinox.
Different cultures around the globe celebrate Good Friday with varying traditions.

El Salvador – Artists create alfombra de asserin (sawdust rugs) using colored sawdust. The artwork depicts a variety of scenes or patterns in honor of Good Friday.
London – Reenacts the crucifixion as a passion play. The performance is free to the public.
Ireland – Eggs are marked with a holy cross and are then eaten on Easter Sunday.
Israel – Christians walk in Jesus’s footsteps in Jerusalem where he was crucified.

HOW TO OBSERVE GOOD FRIDAY

Churches across the country hold services.
Depending on the denomination, their services and traditions may vary.
Many spend the day in meditative reflection.
Some churches will fast, selected hymns are chosen for services and a black cloth is draped over the altar and cross.
Other churches will include specific prayers such as the Stations of the Cross.
Similar to making Easter bread, some make hot cross buns for the observance. Learn more about the biblical story of the crucifixion.
Use #GoodFriday to share on social media.