President Trump Urges Shabbat Observance for US 250th Anniversary, Hosts White House Gathering
President Trump and his administration hosted a Shabbat gathering at the White House, marking the first time an American president has formally urged the observance of Shabbat. This event was part of the celebrations for the 250th anniversary of American independence. The gathering included notable attendees such as Leo Terrell, senior counsel to the assistant attorney general of the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice, along with members of the Trump administration and Jewish leaders from both Orthodox and secular communities. The event featured traditional Jewish customs, including the circle-step hora dance. President Trump's call for Shabbat observance was issued as part of a proclamation for Jewish American Heritage Month, encouraging Jewish Americans to observe a national Sabbath from sundown on May 15 to nightfall on May 16. The proclamation emphasized the importance of rest, reflection, and gratitude.