04 May 2003
Bush Proclaims May 4-11 Jewish Heritage Week
(Proclamation cites contributions of Jewish Americans) (490)

President Bush has designated May 4-11, 2003, as Jewish Heritage Week.

Following is the text of the proclamation, as released by the White
House:

(begin text)

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
May 4, 2003

Proclamation by the President:
Jewish Heritage Week, 2003

JEWISH HERITAGE WEEK, 2003

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

The extraordinary heritage of Jewish Americans reflects the strength
and spirit of our Nation. Their deep family and community ties and
strong religious traditions exemplify America's cultural diversity.
Jewish Heritage Week provides an opportunity to recognize the
contributions of Jewish Americans to our country and to celebrate
their commitment to faith, family, and freedom.

The Jewish people began their search for freedom more than 3,000 years
ago. From the struggle of the Exodus, to the miracle of the Maccabees,
to the horrors of the Holocaust, to the creation of the democratic
State of Israel, Jews have faced and survived many challenges. Jews
draw on their faith to provide hope for the future.

For centuries, Jews have immigrated to the United States to realize
their dreams and enjoy the blessings of religious tolerance and
individual liberty. Today, Jewish Americans play an important role in
the success and growth of our country. Their accomplishments in
education, industry, science, art, literature, and dozens of other
fields have strengthened our Nation and enriched our culture.

Throughout their history, Jewish Americans have demonstrated that
goodness can overcome evil. Guided by moral principles, they bring to
our Nation a rich heritage that recognizes the dignity of every
citizen and the possibilities of every life. Countless Jewish
charitable organizations are helping serve the men, women, and
children across our country who are in need. Their works of kindness
and mercy help to build a more generous and compassionate Nation.

During this week, we also recognize the many Jewish Americans serving
in our Armed Forces who are working to rid the world of terror and
bring freedom and justice to the oppressed. Every generation of
Americans must rise to meet its own challenges, and this generation of
Jewish Americans is standing strong to defend our freedoms and help
make America a land of opportunity for all.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 4 through May
11, 2003, as Jewish Heritage Week. I urge all Americans to learn more
about the rich history of Jewish Americans and to celebrate their
contribution to our cultural diversity.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-seventh.

GEORGE W. BUSH

(end text)

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