NEW YORK — Rep. Jamaal Bowman released the following statement in recognition of Jewish American Heritage Month:

“First and foremost, I'd like to acknowledge the tragedy in Israel resulting in 45 souls lost. Our office is thinking of them and their families, as well as the entire community at this time.

“Jewish American Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the rich traditions and modern experiences of the diverse American Jewish community. I am proud to represent New York's 16th Congressional District, which is home to a large, historic, and vibrant Jewish community.

“The story of the American Jewish community is one of resilience and transformation. While often facing antisemitism and discrimination, the Jewish community fought to build better lives for themselves while making this nation a better place for all. Their historic partnership alongside Black Americans for racial and religious justice is a shining example of how partnerships across boundaries inspire our democracy to live up to its true potential and its highest ideals.

“As we consider the recent antisemitic attacks on synagogues in our district, we are reminded that much work remains ahead of us in order to achieve a society where, in the words of the prophet Micah (4:4), ‘Everyone will sit under their own vine and fig tree, and no one shall make them afraid.’

“May this Jewish American Heritage Month afford us a chance to embody the Jewish value of heavenly debate as we listen to one another and learn in a constructive manner as the Jewish people have done for centuries. I look forward to continuing to build meaningful relationships with the Jewish communities of the 16th Congressional District and beyond so that we may emerge from this pandemic more united as a people and stronger as a nation.”

###