Sens. Rick Scott and Jacky Rosen Lead Colleagues in Introducing Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month

May 10, 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Rick Scott joined Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Tim Scott (R-SC) and Ben Cardin (D-MD) to introduce a bipartisan resolution recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month, which celebrates the many contributions of Jewish Americans to the United States. The resolution also calls on elected officials, faith leaders, and civil society leaders to condemn and combat any and all acts of antisemitism. Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-12), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1), Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY-8), and David Kustoff (R-TN-8) introduced a companion resolution in the House.

 

Senator Rick Scott said, “I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month and honoring the wonderful contributions of Jewish Americans to our great nation. While it is important to set aside this time to honor the Jewish people, we must also commit to standing resolutely with them every day while shining a light on and condemning anti-Semitism of any kind. In Florida, we are blessed to be home to many vibrant Jewish communities and I will continue my work with leaders at the local, state and federal level to support them and their right to live safely and pursue their American Dream.”

 

Senator Jacky Rosen said, “Jewish Americans have made countless contributions to our nation’s history, culture, and heritage that should be celebrated. At a time of rising antisemitism, this resolution calls upon all Americans to learn more about the contributions of Jewish Americans, from medicine and science to sports, public and military service, entertainment, and more. Together, we can ensure the United States remains a nation where Jewish Americans can proudly and safely express their faith and identity.”

 

Senator Tim Scott said, “Jewish Americans are a vibrant part of our nation’s history, and their extraordinary accomplishments have pushed America forward as a beacon of hope, faith, and freedom. I am proud to stand with the Jewish community, especially as despicable, antisemitic hate is on the rise. We must reaffirm our commitment to not only calling out this hate, but crushing it wherever it rears its ugly head.”

 

Senator Ben Cardin said, “Jewish values, like Tikkun Olam or repairing the world, are an inherent part of what it means to be a Jew today. This month is an opportunity to learn more about how Jewish Americans have been an important part of American society and celebrate the men and women who continue to contribute to our great nation. We also take time to examine the immense challenges facing modern Jewish Americans, and band with allies to eliminate hate and antisemitism wherever they appear.”

 

Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, said, “At a time when antisemitic attitudes and stereotypes continue to be normalized and amplified, Jewish American Heritage Month reminds us of the Jewish American story, fueled by faith, resilience, and hope. Thank you Senators Jacky Rosen, Ben Cardin, Tim Scott, and Rick Scott, and Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Hakeem Jeffries, David Kustoff, and Brian Fitzpatrick for introducing this bipartisan and bicameral resolution that celebrates the accomplishments of the American Jewish community, helps us build understanding and allyship, and pushes back on the dangerous rise of antisemitism.”

 

Julie Fishman Rayman, Senior Director of Policy and Political Affairs, American Jewish Committee, said, “May is Jewish American Heritage Month, a time to recognize the many contributions that American Jews have made to our nation. The U.S. has many heritage months that celebrate the various communities that form the mosaic of our country; and by celebrating heritage months, we learn about one another, honor the richness of our diverse nation, and strengthen the fabric of American society. At a time of rising antisemitism and when an increasing number of American Jews feel unsafe, we applaud Senators Jacky Rosen, Tim Scott, Ben Cardin, and Rick Scott for leading this important resolution celebrating Jewish Americans and calling on us to work together to combat antisemitism.”

 

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