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Read, Learn, Celebrate: Jewish American Heritage Month
Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) is an annual celebration of Jewish history, people and culture that takes place every May. JAHM began as a weeklong celebration in 1980 when Congress passed a resolution that authorized the President to proclaim the week of April 21-28, 1980 as Jewish Heritage Week. In 2006, President George W. Bush proclaimed May as Jewish American Heritage Month. According to the American Jewish Committee, “Since 2007, Presidents Bush, Obama, Trump, and Biden have all issued proclamations for Jewish American Heritage Month, which celebrate Jewish Americans and encourage all Americans to learn more about Jewish heritage and contributions to the U.S.” In this lesson, students will learn about Jewish American Heritage Month and its historical context, read and discuss books about Jewish history, culture and achievements, and will consider ideas for celebrating JAHM in May and throughout the year.
Exploring Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPIHM), also sometimes referred to as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. AAPIHM is a month-long commemoration of the history, culture, contributions and achievements of people who are Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander. This month was first acknowledged in 1979 when President Jimmy Carter declared a celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Week. In 1990 under President George H.W. Bush, Congress passed a law that made the commemoration the full month of May. This lesson provides an opportunity for students to learn about the origins of AAPIHM, explore demographics about the AAPI community, and consider ways that AAPIHM should be commemorated in schools and communities.
Parading with Pepe: A Peek into Hispanic Pride
This lesson uses the picture book Pepe and the Parade to help young learners explore Hispanic Heritage Month. Through read-aloud, discussion, and creative expression, students will discover traditions, reflect on identity, and celebrate culture.