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Bill

HR 302

A resolution to declare May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month in the state of Michigan.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Noah Arbit and 32 co-sponsors

Designates May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month in Michigan to formally recognize and celebrate Jewish Americans’ history, contributions, and culture.

adopted
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 302

Summary of Bill HR 302 (Michigan, 2025-2026)

Title

A resolution to declare May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month in the state of Michigan.

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill designates May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month in Michigan.
  • It aims to recognize and celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of Jewish Americans to Michigan and the United States.
  • The resolution acknowledges the long-standing presence and impact of Jewish communities in Michigan and highlights notable areas and individuals associated with Jewish life and contributions.

Key Provisions

  • Official designation: May 2026 is proclaimed as Jewish American Heritage Month by the Michigan House of Representatives.
  • Commendation and recognition: The resolution expresses appreciation for Jewish Americans’ roles in civic life, economic development, education, philanthropy, social justice, arts, sciences, technology, medicine, and culture.
  • Illustrative history and contributions:
    • Notes Jewish settlement in Michigan dating back to 1761 (Ezekiel Solomon at Fort Michilimackinac).
    • Cites Michigan’s sizable Jewish community (described as 100,000 strong) and its presence in many communities, particularly in Metro Detroit (e.g., West Bloomfield, Farmington Hills, Oak Park, Huntington Woods, Southfield, Franklin, Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Commerce, Ann Arbor, and others).
    • Mentions contributions in various sectors: business, philanthropy, civil rights, politics, arts and entertainment, science and technology, medicine, fashion, and innovation.
    • References well-known individuals linked to Jewish heritage and Michigan/US contributions (e.g., Gloria Steinem, Harvey Milk, Samuel Gompers, Bella Abzug, Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel; business and cultural figures like David Hermelin, Max Fisher, William Davidson, Gary Torgow; artists and scientists such as Gilda Radner, Hank Greenberg, Barbra Streisand, Steven Spielberg, Albert Einstein, Ruth Handler, etc.).

Who/What Is Affected

  • Government/Issuance: The Michigan House of Representatives (and through the nature of a resolution, state acknowledgment) would formally designate May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month.
  • Public observance: The declaration may influence state government calendars, public communications, and potential commemorative events or educational activities during May 2026.
  • Communities touched: Jewish residents and institutions across Michigan, including those in Metro Detroit and other regions highlighted in the resolution.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Status: Introduced and adopted on April 30, 2026.
  • Sponsorship: Primary sponsor Rep. Noah Arbit, with a broad list of 30+ co-sponsors (members from multiple districts).
  • Type of measure: A symbolic/ceremonial resolution rather than a statute or budget measure. It does not create new programs, funding, or regulatory requirements; it expresses official acknowledgment and celebration.

Potential Impact

  • Symbolic significance: Elevates awareness of Jewish American heritage and its impact on Michigan and the nation.
  • Educational and cultural outreach: May encourage schools, cultural organizations, and communities to highlight Jewish history and contributions during May 2026.
  • Public discourse: Provides a formal platform to recognize diversity, civil rights, philanthropy, and innovation associated with Jewish Americans.

Notes

  • The resolution emphasizes historical roots and notable figures but does not include fiscal implications, budget items, or enforcement mechanisms.
  • As a resolution, its effects are largely ceremonial and commemorative, aimed at state-level acknowledgment and public education.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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