An American Shabbat Picture of Jonathan Feldstein JONATHAN FELDSTEIN OPINION MAY 12, 2026 Israel365

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An American Shabbat

JONATHAN FELDSTEIN

OPINION

MAY 12, 2026

5 MIN READ

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Source: Jonathan Feldstein

ISRAEL JEWISH-CHRISTIAN RELATIONSOPINION SHABBAT UNITED STATES (AMERICA)

Like many American Jews, I was pleased to see President Trump’s recent declaration in conjunction with the rededication of the United States on May 17, to encourage that the preceding Shabbat, May 15-16, should be observed across America as well.  Acknowledging Jewish Heritage Month, the final sentences of his proclamation were, “I call upon Americans to celebrate the heritage and contributions of Jewish Americans and to observe this month with appropriate programs, activities, and ceremonies.  I further call on all Americans to celebrate their faith and freedom throughout this year, during this month, and especially on Shabbat to celebrate our 250th year.”

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Other than feeling good and seen, especially in light of the growing permissiveness of antisemitism throughout America, many Jews like me looked for additional meaning and significance in this proclamation, and what it means specifically this week.