JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH

"When we use the flame of our own candle to light another candle, the first is not diminished. There is now, simply more light."
—Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z”l (of blessed memory)

About Jewish American Heritage Month

This month, we proudly celebrate Jewish Heritage Month at San Diego State University. Jewish Heritage Month offers an opportunity to honor the rich history, culture and contributions of Jewish communities locally, nationally and globally. Together, we recognize the generations of Jewish individuals whose achievements have helped shape our society and continue to inspire progress today.

This year’s theme for Jewish Heritage Month is Kehillah: Strength in Jewish Diversity. In Jewish tradition, kehillah (קהילה) is a Hebrew word that translates to “community” or “congregation.” It represents more than a gathering; it is a sacred structure built on mutual responsibility, shared values and spiritual connection.

As we celebrate the kehillah we have built at SDSU, we are reminded that our community is defined by strong bonds and a shared commitment to one another. Kehillah emphasizes caring for one another, respecting differences and participating in a collective destiny in which responsibility and blessings are shared.

As Rabbi Jonathan Sacks observed: “The beauty of a kehillah, however, is that when it is driven by constructive purpose, it gathers together the distinct and separate contributions of many individuals, so that each can say, ‘I helped to make this.’”

We invite all members of the SDSU community to engage in Jewish Heritage Month by attending planned campus events, which are listed below, participating in learning opportunities, and joining in meaningful conversations that deepen understanding, foster connection and strengthen our shared community.

The Strength of our Kehillah at SDSU and Beyond

Jewish American Heritage Month was formally established in 2006, building on decades of national recognition honoring the cultural, civic and intellectual contributions of Jewish Americans.

Although nationally Jewish Heritage Month is recognized in May, at SDSU Jewish Heritage Month is observed each March, offering opportunities for learning, reflection and dialogue before the academic year concludes. Jewish faculty, scholars, alumni and leaders have long contributed to SDSU’s academic excellence, research mission and commitment to public service. This commitment is central to the university’s Principles of Community and its broader diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.

Beyond the university, the Jewish community has played a significant role in shaping San Diego since its earliest years. Jewish residents were among the city’s early business owners, educators, and civic leaders, contributing to its economic growth, cultural life and public institutions.

Today, San Diego’s Jewish community is diverse and dynamic, encompassing individuals and families from across the globe, including Sephardic, Mizrahi, Ashkenazi and Latin American Jewish traditions. Weaving together a vibrant Kehillah that continues to have an impact across sectors such as public services, education, philanthropy and the arts. Organizations such as Jewish Family Services of San Diego carry forward a longstanding tradition of community care, providing critical support to immigrants, students and families. Through partnerships like the Higher Education Legal Services (HELS) initiative, SDSU and JFS work together to advance access, equity and student success.

As we observe Jewish Heritage Month, SDSU honors the enduring legacy and ongoing contributions of Jewish Kehillah to both the university and the greater San Diego region.

Standing Against Antisemitism

Antisemitism has risen nationwide in recent years, appearing in forms such as harassment, vandalism, threats against Jewish institutions, the spread of hateful rhetoric, and even deadly violence. These realities have caused fear and concern for many Jewish individuals, including members of the SDSU community.

SDSU unequivocally condemns antisemitism, discrimination and hate in all forms. Creating and sustaining a safe, inclusive and respectful campus environment for all students, faculty and staff remains a core priority.

We call on our community to speak up and take action. Anyone who experiences or witnesses antisemitic behavior or harassment is encouraged to report it through the Inclusive SDSU online reporting form or anonymously via the SDSU Safe app. In cases of immediate danger or threatening behavior, please call or text 911.

Through continued education, accountability, and the work of the Presidential Task Force on Antisemitism, SDSU remains committed to confronting antisemitism and fostering a campus climate rooted in dignity, belonging and mutual respect.

Join Us in Celebration and Learning

Throughout this month, our community will have the opportunity to engage with Jewish traditions, learn about historical and contemporary contributions of Jewish individuals, and participate in a series of events celebrating Jewish heritage at SDSU.

We invite all students, faculty and staff to take part in these Jewish Heritage Month events, fostering dialogue, education and kehillah. RSVP to events online to attend and be part of these meaningful celebrations.

All students, regardless of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin, who are interested in celebrating and participating in Jewish History Month events are welcome. Learn more by reading SDSU's Affirming Equal Opportunity statement.