LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Unified Board of Education unanimously approved a resolution to recognize May as Jewish American Heritage Month across the District, and encourages schools, students, families, and community members to participate in appropriate educational and cultural activities that honor the history and contributions of Jewish Americans.
“At a time of rising antisemitism, we must be clear: there is no place for hate in our schools,” said Melvoin. “I am proud to bring this resolution, which both affirms our commitment to the safety and belonging of Jewish students, staff, and families, and recognizes Jewish American Heritage Month as an opportunity to celebrate contributions and deepen understanding through education.”
The resolution was co-sponsored by Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill and Board President Scott Schmerelson.
"The remembrance of Jewish American Heritage Month in LAUSD is important to acknowledge and celebrate," said LAUSD Board President Scott M. Schmerelson. "Los Angeles is home to one of the largest Jewish populations in the entire world and the second largest concentration of Jewish-Americans in the United States. LA Unified celebrates the diversity of its student body and the cultures and heritages that contribute to our lives. I am also proud to co-sponsor this resolution that reiterates the district's commitment to combating hate in all its forms, including antisemitism."
“Jewish American Heritage Month reminds us of the vast impact Jewish Americans have had on our nation and our local community here in Los Angeles. LA Unified stands firmly against antisemitism and is committed to ensuring our schools are safe, inclusive spaces for all students,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill.
“We are committed to confronting antisemitism and building understanding through education, empathy, and inclusion,” said Acting Superintendent Andrés E. Chait. “Jewish American Heritage Month is an opportunity for our school communities to recognize the profound contributions of Jewish Americans and to reaffirm our responsibility to ensure every student feels safe, seen, and respected.”
"Commemorating May as Jewish American Heritage Month is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to diversity and to ensure every student feels safe, seen, and respected," said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas.
"This May we honor and uplift the contributions of Jewish Americans who have advanced civil liberties, championed human rights, social and racial justice, and have fought tirelessly to uphold dignity for all,” said Board Member Karla Griego.
“This May we celebrate the rich heritage of our Jewish American students, families, and staff. In a time of continued antisemitism and fear of hateful violence, it’s especially important for our school district to ensure a welcoming environment for our Jewish families and staff, to celebrate their contributions to our history, and to recognize the value of the diversity of our district,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez.
“Our district is diverse and it is important that we celebrate Jewish American students, affirming their culture, their story and heritage in our classrooms,” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin. “This resolution will continue to add to our student’s depth of understanding and care for their classmates.”
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