Obama marks Jewish American Heritage Month, celebrates Passover

"Jewish Americans, having shared in the struggle for freedom, have been instrumental in ensuring our Nation stays true to the principles enshrined in our founding documents."

By MICHAEL WILNER
Updated: MAY 1, 2016 00:41
US President Barack Obama delivers a statement (photo credit: REUTERS)
US President Barack Obama delivers a statement
(photo credit: REUTERS)
BELGRADE – US President Barack Obama proclaimed May as Jewish American Heritage Month, hailing the American Jewish community’s role in US history.
“At America’s birth, our founders fought off tyranny and declared a set of ideals – including life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness – that would forever guide our country’s course,” the president wrote on Thursday.
“For generations since, Jewish Americans, having shared in the struggle for freedom, have been instrumental in ensuring our nation stays true to the principles enshrined in our founding documents.
“They have helped bring about enduring progress in every aspect of our society, shaping our country’s character and embodying the values we hold dear,” he added.
In his message, the president highlighted his administration’s efforts to fight anti-Semitism at home and worldwide, noting the US convened the first UN General Assembly meeting on combating anti-Jewish sentiment in the body’s history last year.
He characterized his administration’s commitment to Israel’s security as “unprecedented.”
Obama hosted a belated Passover Seder for senior White House staff on Thursday night, celebrating late as he was abroad when the holiday began last Friday.
Obama has held Seders every year as president up through this year – his last before departing office.