A historic Shabbos dinner marking 250 years since America’s founding was held Friday, July 3, at the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, D.C., bringing together nearly 200 ambassadors, senior U.S. officials and Jewish leaders.

The event, titled America’s 250th Birthday Shabbos Dinner, was hosted by Yehuda Kaploun and Under Secretary for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg, in partnership with the Combat Antisemitism Movement, as part of the Freedom 250 commemorations.

In his remarks, Kaploun spoke of his family’s journey to America, noting that his great-great-grandfather, Shea Ouster, immigrated from Galicia in the 1880s, and his great-grandfather, Shmaya Krinsky, arrived in the United States in 1913.

“They could have never dreamed that their great or great, great grandson would one day be hosting America’s birthday Shabbat dinner,” Kaploun said. “But that is exactly the American dream.”

Kaploun also spoke about the Jewish contribution to American life, saying, “The history of the Jewish people in America is a strong one, a resilient one.”

Among the Jewish Americans he highlighted was the Rebbe, who escaped Nazi persecution and came to America, where he rebuilt Jewish life after the Holocaust and inspired Yidden and non-Jews around the world to add in acts of goodness and kindness.

Kaploun referenced a letter of the Rebbe about America’s foundation in G-d-given truths, saying that remaining loyal to those truths is what allows America’s greatness to continue.

The formal Shabbos setting included yarmulkes and blue Kehos Siddur Tehillat Hashem siddurim with English translation, stamped with a gold State Department 250 seal. A printed message inside was signed by Kaploun and Helberg.

A Foundation Phantom humanoid robot also interacted with guests during the program, pointing to the role of emerging technology in the coming years.

During the event, Arie Lipnick, chair of CAM’s U.S. Advisory Board, announced that CAM will partner with the U.S. Department of State on a new educational initiative to teach young audiences around the world about the contributions of 250 notable Jewish Americans.