Email from a reader: “Dear Rabbi Joshua, I’ve read about President George H.W. Bush signing something related to the Noahide Laws. Could you provide some clarity on when and what exactly was signed? Thank you, Alex Friedman”
Dear Alex,
Your question pertains to a significant moment in the recognition of the Noahide Laws within the context of United States law and history. Let’s delve into the details.
Proclamation 5956 – Education Day, U.S.A., 1991:
President George H.W. Bush signed a proclamation on March 20, 1991, designating April 7, 1991, as “Education Day, U.S.A.”. This proclamation, known as Proclamation 5956, is often referenced in relation to the Noahide Laws.
Context of the Proclamation:
The proclamation was made in honor of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who was a prominent Jewish leader known for his contributions to education and the promotion of the Noahide Laws. The proclamation itself acknowledges the Rebbe’s efforts in “fostering education among all people” and his role in “emphasizing the importance of education to the future of our country.”
Mention of the Noahide Laws:
While the proclamation does not explicitly enact the Noahide Laws as part of U.S. law, it does reference them. It states, “The Lubavitch movement has fostered and promoted these ethical values and principles throughout the world… in tribute to this great spiritual leader, ‘the rebbe,’ this, his ninetieth year will be seen as one of ‘education and giving,’ focusing on the importance of education and charity for all.” This is seen as an acknowledgment of the values embodied in the Noahide Laws.
Significance:
The signing of this proclamation is significant as it represents a moment when the President of the United States recognized the contributions of a Jewish leader and, by extension, the values encapsulated in the Noahide Laws. However, it’s crucial to understand that this was a symbolic gesture of respect and recognition rather than a legal enactment of these laws into U.S. legislation.
Alex, I hope this clarifies the context and content of President George H.W. Bush’s 1991 proclamation in relation to the Noahide Laws. It stands as a testament to the values of education, ethics, and spiritual leadership in the public sphere.
Warm regards,
Rabbi Joshua
