Lindenhurst Mayor Michael Lavorata and the Village Board of Trustees are honored to join the nation in celebrating May as Jewish American Heritage Month.
“During May, we take the time to celebrate and honor the contributions of Jewish Americans in our history. Riddled with a legacy and collective memory of violent persecution across the globe, Jews have long found hope in America’s promise of freedom, justice, opportunity, and religious liberty. The heritage, culture, and contributions of the Jewish community adds to the diverseness and greatness of America!” said Mayor Lavorata.
The first American Jews arrived in 1654 when a group of 23 men, women, and children fled Brazil due to persecution. For more than 370 years, Jewish Americans have been loyal and patriotic citizens, contributing to our nation in countless ways. American Jews have served in government and the military, won Nobel prizes, headed universities and corporations, advanced medical and healthcare, created and performed enduring works of art, written great American novels, become emblems of justice as members of the Supreme Court, and more.
“It was also brought to my attention that the first Hebrew Congregation on Long Island was founded in the City of Breslau in 1875 (see photo). Although, it was moved to the Setauket community several years later, a new Congregation was then formed in the Village of Lindenhurst in the early 1900s where it remained until it’s closing in 2005,” added Mayor Lavorata.
May was first proclaimed Jewish American Heritage Month in April 2006 by President George W. Bush.
“As we honor the legacies and achievements of generations of Jews in America, we also must dedicate ourselves to learning about ongoing struggles with antisemitism in our society, and commit to eliminating this hate,” said Mayor Lavorata.
