The First Salute – Opening April 2026

The Weitzman’s landmark exhibition marking America’s 250th will take you on an adventure through America’s fight for freedom as you’ve never seen it before—where Jewish faith, courage, and persecution collided on the high seas to change the course of history.

Philadelphia, PA — December 18, 2025 — The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History announced plans for a major new exhibition opening in April 2026 in recognition of the United States’ 250th anniversary.

The exhibition will examine the role of Jewish individuals and communities in the era of the American Revolution, highlighting how global trade networks, political pressures, and religious identity intersected during the fight for independence. Drawing on international research and archival materials, the project sheds light on a lesser-known dimension of America’s founding period.

Developed under the curatorial leadership of Dr. Josh Perelman, the exhibition reflects The Weitzman’s continued commitment to presenting rigorous, historically grounded scholarship that expands public understanding of the American Jewish experience.

The exhibition has received support from public and private partners at the local, state, and national levels. It will be on view at The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History beginning April 2026.

The First Salute