The Trump White House has issued a statement calling for Jews to recognize a “national Sabbath” from sundown, Friday, May 15th until sundown, Saturday, May 16th. The White House statement includes this paragraph:
Throughout this historic year, we rejoice in the triumph of the American spirit and rededicate ourselves to the cause of liberty and justice for all. In special honor of 250 glorious years of American independence and on the weekend of Rededicate 250 — a national jubilee of prayer, praise, and thanksgiving — Jewish Americans are encouraged to observe a national Sabbath. From sundown on May 15 to nightfall on May 16, friends, families, and communities of all backgrounds may come together in gratitude for our great Nation. This day will recognize the sacred Jewish tradition of setting aside time for rest, reflection, and gratitude to the Almighty.”
Trump’s call to observe a national Sabbath is part of a larger statement honoring Jewish Americans, and declaring the month of May “Jewish American Heritage Month.” He lauds his own administration for “fighting the violence against Jewish Americans,” and “working to end the scourge of anti-semitism”:
Under my leadership, we are aggressively fighting the violence against Jewish Americans that increased under my predecessor, prosecuting hateful criminals to the fullest extent of the law, and working to end the scourge of anti-Semitism throughout our institutions, especially on college campuses.
In one sentence, Trump seems to be urging all Americans, not just Jews, to celebrate what he terms, “Shabbat” throughout this 250th year of our independence:
I further call on all Americans to celebrate their faith and freedom throughout this year, during this month, and especially on Shabbat to celebrate our 250th year.
Does this portend a national Sabbath law?