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HR 8556

HOUSE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING MAY 2026 AS "JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mia Ackerman and 9 co-sponsors

Rhode Island designates May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize contributions and promote awareness while encouraging anti-hate learning and activities.

05/14/2026 House read and passed
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Bill Summary · HR 8556

Overview

  • Bill: HR 8556
  • Session: 2026
  • Jurisdiction: Rhode Island
  • Title: HOUSE RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING MAY 2026 AS "JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH" IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
  • Introduction date: May 14, 2026
  • Status: Read and passed by the Rhode Island House of Representatives
  • Sponsors: Reps. Knight, Ackerman, Kislak, Finkelman, Boylan, Blazejewski, Kazarian, Chippendale, Potter, Ajello; with Co-sponsors Mike Chippendale, Alex Finkelman, Jennifer Boylan, Brandon Potter, Mia Ackerman, Chris Blazejewski, Katie Kazarian, Jason Knight, Rebecca Kislak, Edith Ajello

Purpose and intent

  • The bill designates the month of May 2026 as "Jewish American Heritage Month" in Rhode Island.
  • It acknowledges and celebrates the contributions of Jewish Americans to the history, culture, economy, arts, education, public service, medicine, and religious life of Rhode Island and the United States.
  • It also emphasizes combating prejudice, antisemitism, and all forms of hate, and promotes unity among Rhode Island residents.

Key provisions

  • Proclamation: The Rhode Island House of Representatives proclaims May 2026 as Jewish American Heritage Month within the state.
  • Observance encouragement: The resolution urges Rhode Island residents to observe the month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and educational programs.
  • Transmission: The Secretary of State is authorized and directed to transmit certified copies of the resolution to relevant community organizations and leaders in recognition of the observance.

Who/what is affected

  • The primary effect is symbolic and ceremonial, naming a period of observance across the state.
  • Community organizations, schools, cultural institutions, and residents are encouraged to participate in activities that recognize Jewish American heritage.
  • No new mandates, funding appropriations, or regulatory changes are introduced by the resolution.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Introduction and consideration occurred in May 2026 during the Rhode Island House session.
  • The resolution was read and passed by the House on May 14, 2026.
  • As a symbolic resolution, it typically would not require Senate action to take effect unless analogous action is needed for joint resolutions; however, this document only notes House passage.
  • The Secretary of State’s office is responsible for distributing copies to relevant organizations and leaders to formalize observance.

Potential impact

  • Raises awareness of the historical and ongoing contributions of Jewish Americans in Rhode Island.
  • Encourages educational programming and community engagement during May 2026.
  • Signals Rhode Island’s stance against antisemitism and all forms of hate, contributing to broader diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
  • No fiscal impact or statutory changes are attached to the resolution.

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

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