SACRAMENTO, California (Press Release) — San Diego Reform Rabbi Devorah Marcus was among a group honored by the California Jewish Legislative Caucus at the Capitol on Monday, May 18.
Marcus, spiritual leader of Temple Emanu-El, was cited for combining “spiritual leadership with advocacy for inclusive education, LGBTQ+ affirmation, and service to Jewish members of the armed forces.”
Marcus was among 14 notable Jewish Californians so honored as part of the caucus celebration of May as Jewish American Heritage Month.
“Jewish American Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary contributions Jewish Americans have made to our state and nation, while also reflecting on the values that have sustained our community across generations – our commitment to justice, learning, service, and repairing the world,” said Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino), Chair of the California Legislative Jewish Caucus.
“At a time when antisemitism and hate continue to rise, it is more important than ever to proudly celebrate Jewish identity, joy, and resilience, and to welcome others to learn more about our history as we work together to build a more just, inclusive, and compassionate California.”
Among the honorees recognized this year by the Jewish Caucus were San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie, Emmy-Award Winning CNN Anchor Elex Michaelson, Hollywood producer and justice advocate Scott Budnick, former Jewish Federations of North America Chair Julie Platt, and philanthropist Carol Saal.
The Jewish Caucus also provided all Members of the Legislature with a personalized Tzedakah Box and an explanation of the importance of Tzedakah in Jewish tradition.
Besides Rabbi Marcis, the 2026 Jewish American Heritage Month honorees included:
Jonah Platt — An accomplished entertainer and one of America’s most trusted voices on modern Jewish identity, culture, and current events, Jonah hosts Being Jewish with Jonah Platt, the world’s leading Jewish podcast, and was honored with California’s inaugural Community Excellence Award for Combating Antisemitism.
Lauren Bandari — As Executive Director of Hillel of San Luis Obispo, Lauren has strengthened Jewish student life and helped launch transformative community initiatives, including cultural programming, youth engagement opportunities, and expanded family services.
Galya Blachman — In response to rising antisemitism, Galya co-founded the Noe Valley Chavurah, building a vibrant grassroots Jewish community in San Francisco rooted in connection, belonging, and resilience.
Scott Budnick — An acclaimed film producer and founder of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, Scott has transformed the lives of countless young people impacted by the criminal justice system through advocacy, mentorship, and systems reform.
Mandana Dayani — An Iranian American business leader, philanthropist, and civic organizer, Mandana has built nationally recognized organizations advancing voter engagement, Jewish identity, and civic participation, and currently serves on the United States Holocaust Memorial Council Board of Trustees.
Dorene Kastelman — Through decades of leadership in Jewish communal organizations and public service supporting vulnerable patients, foster youth, and marginalized communities, Dorene has embodied a lifelong commitment to justice and service.
Mayor Daniel Lurie — Before his election as Mayor of San Francisco, Daniel founded Tipping Point Community, mobilizing more than $500 million to combat poverty and expand opportunity across the Bay Area.
Elex Michaelson — An Emmy Award-winning journalist, Elex has elevated national conversations on antisemitism, democracy, and civic life through impactful reporting and interviews with leading public figures.
Jodi Muirhead — For more than three decades, Jodi has championed public education in Santa Clara County through school board leadership, nonprofit service, and deep engagement in Jewish communal life.
Julie Platt — An internationally respected Jewish leader and former chair of the Jewish Federations of North America, Julie was awarded Israel’s highest civilian honor in 2025 for her extraordinary service to Jewish communities worldwide.
Carol Saal — Carol has helped build some of the most impactful Jewish institutions in California and Israel, dedicating decades to philanthropy, volunteerism, and expanding services for vulnerable communities.
Karl Thurmond — A champion of Jewish education and civic engagement, Karl has led numerous educational and communal organizations while advancing affordable housing and access to justice across California.
Manny Yekutiel — As founder of Manny’s, Manny has created one of California’s most dynamic civic spaces, strengthening Jewish life while building bridges across communities through dialogue and public engagement.
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Preceding provided by the California Legislative Jewish Caucus