As Jewish American Heritage Month comes to a close, I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude on what it means to live as Jews in America, especially as our nation begins commemorating 250 years of independence.

One of the great blessings of Jewish life in this country is the freedom not only to practice our traditions openly, but to contribute fully and proudly to the larger American story. Generation after generation, Jewish Americans have helped build this nation while proudly carrying forward the timeless values of our heritage: learning, justice, compassion, community, and hope.

I think about the courage of earlier generations of Jews who arrived seeking safety, opportunity, and dignity. How they built synagogues, schools, businesses, neighborhoods, and communities. They served in the military, marched for civil rights, taught in classrooms, healed in hospitals, created art and music, led movements for social change, and strengthened the civic fabric of this country in countless ways.

Some particular points of Jewish American pride include:

• Jews fighting in every American war since the Revolutionary War

• Jewish leadership in the Civil Rights Movement

• Contributions to medicine, science, education, government, music, the arts, and of course Hollywood

• The creation of vibrant Jewish communities rooted in tzedakah, learning, and caring for others

• Generations of immigrants helping shape the American dream while preserving Jewish identity and tradition

As we honor this historic American milestone, may we never take for granted the privilege of living Jewishly and freely. And may we continue to add our own chapter, with kindness, purpose, courage, and love to the ongoing story of America and the Jewish people.

Shabbat Shalom, With love, Rabbi Shara