During Jewish American Heritage Month in May, Jewish Community Relations Bureau | American Jewish Committee (JCRB|AJC) partnered with local governments across the Kansas City region to celebrate the history, culture and contributions of Jewish Americans.
Throughout the month, JCRB|AJC representatives presented before the cities of Leawood, Lenexa, Mission, Mission Hills, Overland Park, Prairie Village, Roeland Park, and Shawnee, Kansas, as well as the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas; Jackson County, Missouri; and Johnson County, Kansas. These presentations highlighted the many ways Jewish Americans have helped shape the civic, cultural, educational and economic life of both the Kansas City community and the nation.
“Jewish American Heritage Month is a chance not only to celebrate the contributions of Jewish Americans, but also to reflect on the stories, values and experiences that have shaped our community,” said Neta Meltzer, JCRB|AJC executive director. “We are deeply grateful to our local government partners for recognizing this important month and for engaging in meaningful conversations about Jewish identity, history and belonging. These moments of connection help strengthen the relationships that make our region a more welcoming and vibrant place for everyone.”
JCRB|AJC board member Paul Greenwood (left) accepts a Jewish American Heritage Month proclamation from Leawood, Kansas, Mayor Marc Elkins.
In addition to recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month through official proclamations and public acknowledgments, the initiative provided opportunities to build relationships with local leaders and engage in meaningful conversations about Jewish identity, history and community life.
JCRB|AJC staff extended gratitude to each municipality and county for its partnership in helping ensure that Jewish stories, experiences and contributions are recognized, celebrated and shared throughout the Heartland.