Trump proclaims 'national Sabbath' to honor Jewish American Heritage Month

U.S. President Donald Trump issued a presidential proclamation designating a “National Sabbath” as part of Jewish American Heritage Month on Tuesday, framing the move as both a celebration of Jewish contributions to American life and a reaffirmation of religious freedom in the United States.

The declaration comes amid ongoing scrutiny of antisemitic rhetoric within segments of American political discourse and serves as a symbolic gesture highlighting Jewish tradition at the national level.

Trump’s proclamation states that from Friday evening, May 15, until Saturday evening, May 16, Americans are invited to observe the Sabbath in recognition of Jewish customs. This would “recognize the sacred Jewish tradition of setting aside time for rest, reflection, and gratitude to the Almighty… From sundown on May 15 to nightfall on May 16, friends, families, and communities of all backgrounds may come together in gratitude for our great Nation."

The initiative is also tied to broader commemorations marking 250 years since the United States Declaration of Independence. In that context, Trump cited a letter from George Washington to the leadership of the Touro Synagogue—the oldest active synagogue in the United States – which played a role in shaping early American principles of religious liberty later enshrined in the First Amendment.

The proclamation also highlighted the legacy of Haym Salomon, a Jewish financier who supported the Continental Congress during the American Revolution. Trump said Salomon “gave everything to the success of the American Revolution. Like so many Jewish Americans who follow in his footsteps, Salomon’s legacy stands as a testament to the unshakable belief in the American promise.”

Expanding on the theme, Trump added: “This month, we celebrate the contributions that Jewish Americans have made to our way of life, we honor their role in shaping the story of our Nation, and we remember that religious devotion, learning, and service to others are enduring pillars of a thriving culture. Through every trial and triumph, the contributions of Jewish Americans have shaped our past, have strengthened our communities, and will continue to inspire American greatness for generations to come.”

The proclamation was welcomed by several Orthodox Jewish organizations, including Agudath Israel of America, which said the initiative underscores longstanding American values.

In a statement, the group said the move reflects not only recognition of Jewish contributions but also broader national ideals. It said that “the basic obligation of hakaras hatov (gratitude), recognizing and appreciating the incredible good of our host nation, is a fundamental principle worthy of national public acknowledgment. We thank President Trump for recognizing the important role of the Jewish people and Shabbos in the history of the United States.”

The United States is home to the largest Jewish population outside of Israel, estimated at between 6.3 and 7.5 million people, or roughly 2% of the population. Major population centers include New York, Miami, and Los Angeles, with additional communities in Houston, Minneapolis, Washington, D.C., and Boston. While most American Jews identify with the Reform movement, a growing number describe themselves as non-denominational or traditional.

Despite representing a relatively small share of the population, Jewish Americans have played an outsized role in fields ranging from the arts and finance to science and academia, a theme echoed throughout the president’s proclamation.