Jewish American Heritage Month Resource Guide | The Center for Jewish-Inclusive Learning Portal

Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

Topic

Jewish American Heritage

Summary

Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) is a national month each May that recognizes nearly four centuries of American Jewish experience. Starting in 2006 by Presidential proclamation, JAHM provides an opportunity for people to learn about and appreciate Jewish heritage and reflect on the specific history and experiences of the American Jewish community, serving as a tool to counter antisemitism.

JAHM celebrates the contributions and experiences of Jewish Americans and highlights how America’s Jewish communities have shaped and have been shaped by the cultural, social, and economic fabric of the United States.

This resource guide will help you learn about JAHM and provide ways to celebrate, engage, and raise awareness in your own organization and community. Easy-to-use resources and social media posts are provided. You are encouraged to share information on social media, newsletters, employee education, and create programming about it. In addition, feel free to develop educational materials, create cultural events and experiences, and join community activities to promote further engagement.

The guide also includes ways to advocate for JAHM such as encouraging public recognition from elected local and state officials and advocating for media coverage to highlight Jewish life and culture.

Finally, the resource guide includes an FAQ section, JAHM talking points, general history and heritage month talking points, and a calendar of US history and heritage months.

More For Jewish American Heritage Month

A graphic banner reading “Jewish American Heritage Month — May,” centered on a white background. The text is surrounded by colorful blue, yellow, and teal geometric patterns, including circles, stripes, and a Star of David motif along the top and bottom borders.

Educator Guide

Visual

JAHM Poster Series

Recognize Jewish American Heritage Month with this poster series and accompanying resources.

Grades:

K - 12

Visual

Jewish American Heritage Month Toolkit

Raise awareness of Jewish American Heritage Month with this helpful toolkit containing downloadable resources.

Grades:

K - 12

Video

Lesson

Reel History: The Jewish American Story on Film

Discover the dynamic story of Jewish Americans in this brief video lesson. Explore Jewish American identity including the community’s history, culture, challenges, triumphs, and contributions to American society.

Grades:

6 - 8

A worn scroll with faces of the ancient Jewish family tree

Video

Educator Guide

Lesson

Who Are the Jewish People?

Take your students on a journey of the Jewish people, examining a story rich in history, shared experiences, love for Israel, and persistence against hatred.

Grades:

6 - 12

Friends put hand in hand the concept of a friend connection that make Star of David hands

Lesson

Who are Your People? Defining Jewish Peoplehood

While reflecting on their own sense of belonging, students will learn about the diversity of the Jewish people and their strong sense of shared community.

Grades:

6 - 12

Composition of israel and middle eastern food: ritual goblet of wine, challah, pita bread, hummus, falafel, shakshuka, pomegranate and lemons on a rustic table

Lesson

We Belong At the Table: Centering Jewish Diversity

Jews represent a wide range of cultures, languages, ethnicities, races, and religious practices. As Jews have moved around the globe, they have adapted, blended, and preserved traditions, and found new ways to express their culture. This lesson will show your students how different cultures express their Judaism through the foods they eat and the traditions they observe.

Grades:

6 - 12

Educator Backgrounder

Jewish American Diversity Fact Sheet

Provide students essential context for understanding Jewish American diversity using this fact sheet on peoplehood, culture, and belonging.

Grades:

K - 12

Lesson

Educator Guide

Hidden Voices: Jewish Americans in United States History Volume 1

Discover the stories of Jewish Americans who helped shape the nation’s history from its earliest days to the present.

Grades:

K - 12

NPS