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

Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

Topic

Jewish American Heritage

Summary

Taking place each May, Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) is a national month of recognition of nearly four centuries of American Jewish experience. Recognized by Presidential proclamation since 2006, 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.

This toolkit contains the following downloadable resources to raise awareness of JAHM, including:

Resource Guide

JAHM Logos

Posters

Social Posts and Graphics:

Kick-Off

Anytime

Did You Know? (JAHM Facts)

Read, Watch, Listen, Make

More For Jewish American Heritage Month

A tablet lies on a blue fabric surface displaying the words “Jewish American Heritage” arranged in bold wooden letterpress blocks. Nearby are a yellow mug filled with coffee, a wooden pen, and a white charging cable, creating a casual desk or tabletop setting that suggests reflection, learning, or celebration of Jewish American heritage.

Educator Guide

Jewish American Heritage Month Resource Guide

Learn about ways to recognize Jewish American History Month (JAHM) and celebrate the contributions and experiences of Jewish Americans who have shaped and been shaped by the cultural, social, and economic fabric of the United States.

Grades:

K - 12

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

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