Trump proclaims Jewish American Heritage Month, calls for National Sabbath to mark America’s 250th

President Donald J. Trump proclaimed May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month on Monday, honoring the contributions of Jewish Americans to the United States and calling for a “national Sabbath” as part of the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

In the proclamation, Trump praised Jewish Americans for their role in shaping the nation’s history, values, and civic life, citing faith, family, and freedom as central themes of the observance. He also invoked President George Washington’s 1790 letter to the Hebrew Congregation in Newport, Rhode Island, in which Washington wrote that the United States “gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance.”

The proclamation highlighted Hayim Salomon, a Jewish supporter of the American Revolution, as an example of Jewish Americans’ early contributions to the cause of independence. Trump also used the proclamation to condemn antisemitism, pledging that his administration would combat violence against Jewish Americans and address antisemitism in American institutions, particularly on college campuses.

As part of the nation’s anniversary, Trump encouraged Jewish Americans to observe a national Sabbath from sundown on May 15 to nightfall on May 16. The observance, referred to by supporters as “Shabbos 250” or “Shabbat 250,” is intended as a time for rest, reflection, and gratitude.

Agudath Israel of America, an Orthodox Jewish advocacy organization that represents Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) communities and focuses on public policy, education, and religious rights, welcomed the initiative. The group said it offers an opportunity to reflect on America’s role as a haven of religious freedom. “Shabbos 250 is an opportunity to celebrate the religious liberty we enjoy in this great country and to reflect on the gratitude owed to the United States by each and every one of us,” said Rabbi AD Motzen, the organization’s national director of government affairs.

Chabad-Lubavitch, a global Hasidic Jewish movement known for its outreach, education, and community-building efforts among Jews of all backgrounds, also expressed support for the initiative. Its leaders emphasized the central role of Shabbat in Jewish life and spirituality.

Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff of Chabad-Lubavitch of Houston called Shabbat 250 “a beautiful idea” and said it offers Jews an opportunity to “unplug and connect with G-d, your family, and your community.”

Trump’s proclamation calls on Americans to celebrate Jewish American heritage throughout May with appropriate programs, activities, and ceremonies, while also marking the broader anniversary of American independence through faith and freedom.