Celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month 2026
Each May, people and organizations across the country join together to discover, explore, and celebrate the vibrant and varied American Jewish experience, past and present. See the list below for ways to learn more and get involved this month.
A Story Celebrated: Historical Installation
Last week, Leni met with residents at The Selfhelp Home for a fireside chat, and a tour of plans for a new historical installation. The installation will be a place for the community to visit — telling the story of Selfhelp and its significance within Chicago's Jewish refugee history. A central feature is Points of Light: 540 individual points installed in remembrance of the refugees and survivors who have lived at Selfhelp. You can read more and support the project here.
Selfhelp Home 18 Over 80 Honorees
Last month, Selfhelp celebrated their inaugural class of 18 Over 80 honorees, a new recognition celebrating extraordinary residents, friends, leaders, and community members whose lives and contributions reflect the heart of Selfhelp. A big congratulations to Rennie Shapiro, z”l; Donald Davidson; Fela Dogadko; George Huppert; Esther Katz; Marie Leaner; Sally Nusinson; Charlotte Schwartz; Phyllis Toback; Reynold Weil; Stanley Pollock; Hedy Ciocci; Ralph Juss; Stephen Nechtow; Fern Shaffer; Craig Tuber; Phil Friedmann; and Donna Mayer.
The Selfhelp Home is a Jewish senior living community at 908 W. Argyle. Founded in 1938 as a volunteer mutual aid society for Holocaust refugees and survivors, Selfhelp is an enduring chapter of Chicago's Jewish refugee story—a place where European Jews fleeing Nazi Europe rebuilt their lives with dignity, and a legacy that continues to thrive today right here in the 48th Ward.
Share Shabbat Tradition at Emanuel Congregation
When: Friday, June 12 at 6pm
Where: Emanuel Congregation (5959 N Sheridan)
Learn more online.
Each month, the wider Emanuel Congregation community gathers on the second Friday evening to celebrate Share Shabbat, a beloved tradition that brings people together through the joy of food, prayer, music, and connection. Whether you're joining for the first time or are a longtime regular, you’ll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere where everyone has a seat at the table.
Celebrate with the Chicago Public Library
The Chicago Public Library is excited to share a variety of programs in celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month. Check out their website here for a schedule of events, recommended reading lists, and more!
