IL SR0258

Declares May 2025 as Jewish American Heritage Month in the State of Illinois

Recognizes over 350 years of Jewish American history dating back to the colonial era, including contributions to American independence and religious freedom

Acknowledges key Jewish American figures in Illinois history, including Governors Henry Horner, Samuel Shapiro, and JB Pritzker, as well as philanthropist Julius Rosenwald

Highlights historical waves of Jewish immigration, including German Jewish immigrants in the mid-1800s and over two million Eastern European Jewish immigrants in the late 1800s and early 1900s fleeing persecution and pogroms

Notes the importance of recognizing Jewish American heritage in light of heightened antisemitism in America and abroad