PROCLAMATION
Recognizing May 2023 as Jewish American Heritage Month in The City of Hercules WHEREAS, from our Nation's earliest days, Jewish Americans have been an essential part of the American story, greatly contributing to the religious, cultural, political, economic, and intellectual advancement of all people even while in the face of discrimination and adversity, working tirelessly to realize their piece of the American dream with relentless spirit, and these remarkable achievements have enriched our country, stirred our conscience, and challenged us to extend the miracles of freedom and security; and WHEREAS, as we celebrate the rich heritage of the Jewish American community, in the City of Hercules and the nation, we recognize that American Jews have worked tirelessly to strengthen the promise of religious freedom and civil rights in the United States by joining together with all faiths to reject ignorance and intolerance, teach empathy and compassion, and root out hatred wherever it exists, and through our understanding and study of the Holocaust, we know the human devastation that can come from systemic prejudice, and are compelled to “never forget”; and WHEREAS, we are reminded that the vibrant culture and life of the Jewish people has experienced prejudice and discrimination and that Jewish communities continue to confront hostility and bigotry, including in America, and the City of Hercules shares the obligation to condemn and combat anti-Semitism and hatred wherever it exists; and WHEREAS, May 2023 is recognized as Jewish American Heritage Month by Presidential Proclamation stating that The Jewish American experience is a story of faith, fortitude, and progress. It is a quintessential American experience — one that is connected to key tenets of American identity, including our Nation’s commitment to freedom of religion and conscience. This month, we honor Jewish Americans — past and present — who have inextricably woven their experience and their accomplishments into the fabric of our national identity; and WHEREAS, during Jewish American Heritage Month, the City of Hercules celebrates the hard-fought progress won through the struggle and sacrifice of Jewish Americans, and we rededicate ourselves to building a world where diversity is cherished, and faith is protected.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT PROCLAMINED, that I, Alex Walker-Griffin, Mayor of the City of Hercules, on behalf of the entire City Council, do hereby recognize May 2023 as Jewish American Heritage Month in the City of Hercules and call upon all residents to celebrate Jewish Americans who contributed immeasurably to the fabric American history, culture, science, education and social justice, and to many aspects of our local Hercules Community, to visit www.jewishheritagemonth.gov to learn more about the heritage and contributions of Jewish Americans, and to observe this month with solemn remembrance.
In witness whereof, I hereunto set my hand and cause the seal of the City of Hercules to be affixed this 9th day of May 2023. ________________________________
Alex Walker-Griffin, Mayor