JFEDLA believes that the antidote to hate in all its forms is to live our best Jewish lives. In that spirit, Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) — held each May — is an exciting opportunity for JFEDLA and the community to come together and celebrate the many ways Jews have positively impacted American society, specifically in Los Angeles.
Established in 2006, JAHM commemorates more than 350 years of Jewish history in America. Jewish contributions to Los Angeles have played significant roles in shaping the city’s cultural, economic, and social landscape.
From the early 20th century onwards, Jewish Angelenos have made substantial contributions to the entertainment industry, establishing Hollywood as a global powerhouse for film and television. Jewish individuals and organizations have also been instrumental in the development of philanthropy, education, and community activism, adding to the vibrant and diverse fabric of Los Angeles. Their impact is felt in the city’s institutions, arts scene, and the promotion of intercultural understanding.
Jewish L.A. – A Legacy of Service
This year, JFEDLA will honor JAHM with a month-long commemoration honoring the Jewish value of commitment to service by telling the stories, promoting the accomplishments, and elevating the voices of Jewish service organizations and individuals that make meaningful and vital change for all of Los Angeles.
Join us in celebrating JAHM 2024. Please see below for our upcoming events and resources aimed at helping you honor JAHM in your workplace and beyond.
Share JFEDLA’s video honoring Jewish Los Angeles service organizations
JAHM L.A. Events
Join us on Wednesday, May 8th at 10:00 AM at Los Angeles City Hall Council Chambers, as we commemorate the Jewish value of commitment to service.
May 30th – In honor of both JAHM and Asian American and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month, JFEDLA will showcase The Braid’s “What Do I Do with All This Heritage?” The play is a whimsical and thought-provoking journey into the lives of Asian Jews as they reveal their true stories of holding two age-old traditions in their hearts.
JAHM Resources
Fact Sheet: Download and share JFEDLA’s JAHM Fact Sheet
Social Media Resources:
- Download and share JAHM graphics from Jewish Federations North America.
- Share the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History’s JAHM commercial video on your social media channels.
- Find social media content, provided by the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History, to post during the month of May.
Additional Information:
Learn more about Jewish contributions to Los Angeles
Explore the digital and physical holdings related to Jewish American heritage available from the Library of Congress and other agencies.
See the National Archives’ videos, records, and articles on Jewish American Heritage Month
Check out these educational resources to teach students about the significant contributions of American Jewry
Honor the legacy of American Jewish women throughout the month of May
