Abbott declares May 'Jewish American Heritage Month' in Texas

Texas GOP Gov. Greg Abbott on Thursday declared the month of May "Jewish American Heritage Month" to show solidarity with Israel. 

"Proud to proclaim May as Jewish American Heritage Month in Texas," Abbott wrote on the social media platform, X. "It is imperative now more than ever that we stand in solidarity with Israel & the Jewish community."

Abbott has been outspoken about antisemitism in recent months as anti-Israel protests have broken out across university campuses. 

Last month, he signed an executive order instructing state universities to review and establish policies that will address antisemitism on campus. 

The order instructed schools to "review and update free speech policies to address the sharp rise in antisemitic speech and acts on university campuses and establish appropriate punishments, including expulsion from the institution."

Abbott further said that the state of Texas will always stand in support of Israel and will celebrate the accomplishments of Jewish Americans in the Lone Star State. 

"I encourage all Texans to learn more about the significant role Jewish people have played in our nation and to appreciate their rich heritage," Abbott wrote in his statement.