Celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month

Press Release

Celebrating Jewish American Heritage Month

Below are remarks from House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn on the celebration of Jewish American Heritage month during the month of May.

"I'm proud to join my friends and colleagues this May in celebrating the second annual celebration of Jewish American Heritage month, a well-deserved honor and tribute to the U.S. Jewish community.

"Since arriving in the United States in the 17th Century, America's Jews have played a vital role in our society, contributing to the nation's rich culture in many ways. The community has served as a voice of conscience in this country, speaking out against injustice here and abroad and partnering with other leaders in the human and civil rights movements to bring equal rights to all people.

"The Jewish Community has a special history in my home state of South Carolina, dating back to 1750. Until the mid-1800's, South Carolina was home to more Jewish people than any other part of the county, and South Carolina was the first place in the western world to elect a Jew to public office. The community has established a lasting tradition of philanthropy and social service with the creation of the first Jewish social welfare organization in 1784 and the first American Jewish orphan care society in 1801. Charleston's Jews also made history in 1841 by founding Beth Elohim, the first permanent Reform Jewish synagogue in the United States. The rich history of the Jewish community in South Carolina is a source of pride for our state and I look forward to continuing my work with the community."

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