Newsom Honors Jewish Heritage Month, Highlights California’s Fight Against Antisemitism

Governor Gavin Newsom has proclaimed May 2026 as Jewish Heritage Month, recognizing the history, diversity, and contributions of Jewish communities while reaffirming California’s commitment to fighting antisemitism.

In a proclamation on May 31, Governor Newsom underscored the longstanding presence of Jewish communities in the state and their role in shaping California’s cultural, political, and social landscape.

He noted that generations of Jewish immigrants arrived in the U.S. seeking freedom and opportunity after fleeing persecution, eventually establishing thriving communities throughout California.

California is home to the second-largest Jewish population in the country, according to the proclamation. Describing the state’s Jewish community as diverse, Governor Newsom said the community includes Ashkenazi, Sephardic, Mizrahi, Persian, Israeli, Ethiopian, and Latin American populations.

He said that these populations have greatly contributed to the state’s development since the early days of California’s formation.

Praising the Jewish community’s contributions to culture, politics, civil society, and other areas of public life, Governor Newsom said California is the “global force” thanks to the community.

“California is not the state, nor is it the global force it is today, without the many contributions of Jewish people,” he said in the proclamation.

Out of the total 7,692,105 Jewish people living in the U.S. in 2024, California is home to 1,259,325 Jewish people, according to the Jewish Virtual Library.

Several California cities have significant centers of Jewish life in the country. The Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metropolitan area has the country’s second-highest Jewish population.

Addressing the Issue of Antisemitism

Governor Newsom also addressed the ongoing issue of antisemitism in the proclamation.

While celebrating Jewish heritage and achievements, he acknowledged the discrimination, violence, and bigotry that the community has experienced throughout history and “shamefully persist to this day.”

“Amid brazen displays of antisemitic hate, California is taking action to protect our communities and ensure that future generations never forget the lessons of the past,” the proclamation stated.

Governor Newsom pointed to several efforts aimed at addressing antisemitism, including the state’s first statewide plan to counter antisemitism, investments in security for houses of worship and cultural centers, and financing for anti-hate programs that support victims and fight intolerance.

He also referenced a recent report issued by the Council on Holocaust and Genocide Education, which examined genocide education in California and offered suggestions to boost efforts against antisemitism and bigotry.

He concluded the proclamation with a call for all Californians to recognize the many contributions of Jewish communities and to continue promoting pluralism, religious freedom, and cultural diversity.

“California will continue to lead the fight to confront all forms of racial, ethnic, and religious hate across our society with education and empathy,” Newsom said.