One-sentence reflections from Jewish Detroiters.
May is Jewish American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich history, values and contributions of Jewish Americans. In that spirit, we asked Jewish Detroiters what makes them proud to be Jewish Americans.
“I’m proud to be a Jewish American because being Jewish represents the spirit of social justice as well as equality and solidarity despite attempts to keep us down.” Julie Smith
“I am proud to be a Jewish American when I welcome Shabbat by lighting candles on our porch, sharing a calm evening with Jews around the world, and when I volunteer to host Israeli campers, learning about them and their families while offering a joyful weekend on the lake.” Marcy Spitz
“Being a proud American Jew means feeling a deep connection to our Jewish community, history and traditions while embracing American culture, opportunities and liberties!” Marlo Scott
“I am proud to be Jewish because I’m proud to be part of a community that is rooted in tradition, loves and accepts endlessly, gives generously and perseveres.” Carly Sheridan
“I am proud to be a Jewish American because our heritage instills an unshakable communal responsibility to uplift a vibrant Jewish future, a value I strive to live out every day.” Tessa Hewitson
“What makes me most proud to be a Jewish American is that I have the freedom to travel to Israel and see firsthand the true resilience, kindness, passion for living life to its fullest and compassion for all people that define our communities both in Metro Detroit and throughout the world.” Joe Cooper
“I am proud to be a Jewish American because our community here is incredible. We show up for our people here and around the world.” Alice M.
“I’m proud to be part of a Jewish community that supports each other.” Rhonda Linovitz
“Living in a retirement community that is predominantly non-Jewish, I feel especially grateful, as a fellow American, to have the opportunity and privilege of educating others and sharing the deeply felt values and traditions of Judaism.” Barbara Gash
“I am proud of our people everywhere in the world, and as American Jews, we care about family, our community and other communities. We show up for those who need support, from the Civil Rights Movement to marginalized groups today.” Laurie G.
These voices are one way our community is honoring Jewish American Heritage Month. This year, our Community Relations Department also helped secure proclamations recognizing the month from Governor Whitmer, Huntington Woods, Southfield and Madison Heights.
Thanks to your support of our Annual Campaign, Federation and our agency partners create meaningful ways to explore heritage, deepen Jewish identity and bring our community together—all year long.
