Proclaiming May 2024 to be Jewish American Heritage Month.

Proclamation Whereas: Jewish American Heritage Month was established in 2006 recognizing more than 350-year history of Jewish contributions to the United States; and Whereas: During Jewish American Heritage Month, we celebrate the immeasurable impact of Jewish values, contributions, and culture on the U.S. and Somerville's character; and Whereas: Jewish American suffragists, activists, and leaders marched for civil rights, women’s rights, voting rights, racial equality and LGBTQ+ rights; and Whereas: Jewish Americans are an integral part of our Commonwealth and our city. They make up an indispensable part of our city’s workforce, business owners, teachers, policy makers, coaches and medical workers; and Whereas: we must acknowledge the disturbing rise in antisemitism across the U.S. and the globe, which has seen an increase in violence and dangerous rhetoric directed against the Jewish community; and Whereas: The City of Somerville stands against all forms of hate including antisemitism and is committed to standing with Jewish American residents of Somerville and the Commonwealth and; Now therefore be it known to all those present that the Mayor of the City of Somerville respectfully proclaims May 2024 to be Jewish American Heritage Month, honors the contributions of Jewish Americans, and is committed to standing up with our Jewish residents to denounce all forms of antisemitism and hate. Proclaimed on this 23rd day of May, 2024 by Katjana Ballantyne Mayor