It is incumbent upon us to ensure we live by the Jewish value of inclusion and openness Jewish tradition asserts is one of our central values. The midrash teaches us that Abraham and Sarah’s tent was open on all four sides, so they could greet anyone passing by and welcome them into their home (Bereshit Rabbah 48:9). This includes the needs and concerns of holy LQBTQIA+ members of our community.
How can we explore the practice of rituals in new and exciting ways and learn about inspiring ways members of our community have enriched our tradition with inclusive additions?
What exactly does it mean to be an ally? Is saying you are an ally enough? Are you required to take a more active role in order to be considered someone who supports a particular community? How do Jewish Mental Health Values teach us about being an ally?
Inclusion requires us to intentionally recognize the strengths these members bring to our communities and to honor and respond to the unique stressors these individuals may face. Inclusive practices help us welcome and support the beautiful tapestry that is our Jewish community.
Being a parent, guardian or loved one of a teenager isn’t always easy. So much in this world is constantly changing, and it can be hard to keep up. We all want to do right by our youth, but we don't always know how.
Rates of mental health challenges are uniquely high in the LGBTQ+ community, which truly does make affirmation practice life-saving work. LGBTQ+ youth who have at least one accepting adult in their life were 40% less likely to attempt suicide.