Jewish American Heritage Month is observed every May to honor the rich traditions of the Jewish community. Since Judaism is an ethnoreligion this is a time to celebrate all aspects of Jewish culture , through the exploration of art, music, food, and more. It’s also important to acknowledge that there are many sects of Judaism with their own unique practices. While the contributions, accomplishments, and culture of the community should be acknowledged and celebrated all everyday, this month provides a time to renew your focus on learning more about the Jewish community. We’ve compiled a list of ways to help get you started celebrating this Jewish American Heritage Month.
Explore Jewish American Heritage
- Visit The Zekelman Holocaust Center located just a mile from MSP on Orchard Lake Road (student discounts available!)
- Stories That Shaped A Nation: Jewish Lives in America livestream from 4:30-5:30 PM
- Antisemitism, USA a informational livestream at 7 PM on May 23rd
- Visit the In The Neighborhood: Everyday Life on Hastings Street exhibit from the Detroit Historical Society
- Checkout The Digital Weitzman from Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History
Engage with Jewish American Culture
- Bake and braid your own Challah
- Visit one of Metro Detroit’s Jewish delis
- Eat at a Kosher restaurant
- Read books by Jewish authors
Learn Jewish American History
- Resources from the National Archives
- American Jewish Historical Society website
- Timeline in American Jewish History
- Gallery of Michigan’s Jewish History
Local Organizations to Support
- Jewish Historical Society of Michigan
- Jewish Family Service of Metro Detroit
- The Zekelman Holocaust Center
Most importantly keep learning and reflecting and remember that the challenges Jewish communities face are ongoing, not just history. Incorporate challenging antisemitism into everyday action, not just during Jewish American Heritage Month.
