On Monday, May 20th, Amanda Blaurock of the Village Exchange Center accepted on behalf of JEWISHcolorado and the JCRC a Jewish Heritage Month Proclamation as read by Aurora City Council Member Danielle Jurinksy and Mayor Mike Coffman. Amanda’s comments are below.
Good evening, esteemed members of the Aurora City Council,
As we mark Jewish American Heritage Month, I stand before you today with a profound sense of duty and pride as both a business and nonprofit leader in Aurora, but also as a representative of JEWISHcolorado –. This is a time dedicated to celebrating the myriad contributions of Jewish Americans to our nation’s tapestry, a rich and complex history woven with perseverance, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to justice. As the co-founder of the Village Exchange Center, a nonprofit with the mission of celebrating religious and cultural diversity and serving over 20,000 people from 42 countries of origin, I am truly honored to be here tonight.
It is no secret that our Jewish community has faced significant challenges throughout history—discrimination, persecution, and hardship have tested us repeatedly. Yet, it is within these trials that the resilience of the Jewish spirit has shone brightest. From the early Jewish immigrants who helped build our cities, to the scientists, artists, business leaders, and social activists who have left indelible marks on our society, Jewish Americans have consistently demonstrated the values of hard work, education, and community service.
This month is not just about looking back with pride; it is about recognizing the ongoing contributions of Jewish Americans in every field imaginable. Whether it is in medicine, law, arts, or technology, Jewish Americans have
played pivotal roles in driving progress and fostering a more inclusive, equitable society.
However, I would be remiss not to acknowledge the rising—even skyrocketing—incidents of antisemitism. This animosity not only harms Jewish individuals but also undermines the very fabric of our diverse and pluralistic society.
To those who may harbor such hostility, JEWISHcolorado’s Jewish Community Relations Council extends an invitation: Let us engage in dialogue. Let us build bridges of understanding rather than walls of division. The strength of our community lies in our diversity, and we all stand to benefit from a culture of mutual respect and cooperation.
Jewish American Heritage Month is an opportunity for us to learn from one another, to appreciate the rich cultural mosaic that defines our nation, and to commit to standing together against hatred and intolerance in all its forms.
In conclusion, it is with deep gratitude to the Aurora City Council for marking this special time and for honoring Jewish Americans by fostering an environment where every individual—regardless of their background—can thrive and contribute to the common good. Let us recognize that our differences, far from being a source of division, are a source of strength and unity.
Thank you.