President Donald Trump visits the Western Wall in Jerusalem, May 22, 2017. Photo: Matty Stern / US Embassy in Tel Aviv.

US President Donald Trump issued a proclamation on Monday to kick off Jewish American Heritage Month.

Trump — whose oldest daughter Ivanka converted to Judaism in 2009 — said, “Jewish Americans have helped guide the moral character of our Nation.  They have maintained a strong commitment to engage deeply in American society while also preserving their historic values and traditions.  Their passion for social justice and showing kindness to strangers is rooted in the beliefs that God created all people in his image and that we all deserve dignity and peace.

These beliefs have inspired Jewish Americans to build mutual-support societies, hospitals, and educational institutions that have enabled them and their fellow Americans to advance American society.  Jewish Americans marched for civil rights in Selma and fought for the freedom of their brethren behind the Iron Curtain. Through their actions, they have made the world a better place.”

He continued: “The contributions of the Jewish people to American society are innumerable, strengthening our Nation and making it more prosperous.  American Jews have proudly served our country in all branches of government, from local to Federal, and they have defended our freedom while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The indelible marks that American Jews have left on literature, music, cinema, and the arts have enriched the American soul.

In their enduring tradition of generosity, Jewish Americans have established some of the largest philanthropic and volunteer networks in the Nation, providing humanitarian aid and social services to those in need at home and abroad, acting as a ‘light unto the nations.’  Universities and other institutions around the country proudly display Nobel prizes won by Jewish Americans in the fields of medicine, chemistry, physics, and economics.”

“The American Jewish community is a shining example of how enshrining freedom of religion and protecting the rights of minorities can strengthen a nation,” Trump declared. “Through their rich culture and heritage, the Jewish people have triumphed over adversity and enhanced our country. For this and many other reasons, the American Jewish community is deserving of our respect, recognition, and gratitude.”