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Support Our LGBTQ+ Community Members

It is a scary and uncertain time for many folks in our Jewish community. While the rights and safety of our LGBTQ+ members are being threatened at a national level, our LJCC community is uniquely positioned to provide a safe-haven for those experiencing discrimination, bullying, and oppression. We all contribute to the culture of the LJCC and each of us can take part in making our community more welcoming. 

In a recent training through Keshet’s Shivyon (Equality) Project, they shared this diagram and invited us to consider where our congregation currently exists. Where do you think the LJCC lands on the spectrum? 

As a lay-led congregation, it can be particularly challenging to get everyone on the same page. Like so much at the LJCC, this is a community effort: we all play a part in creating a welcoming environment! Each of us can contribute to creating a culture that fosters a sense of belonging, visibility, and affirmation for LGBTQ individuals, families, and communities. 

Let’s take a moment to show support for our LGBTQ+ community members at the LJCC by engaging in this important issue. On Saturday, May 3 the LJCC will host Havdalah and Conversation starting at 7 p.m. All are welcome! Register here. 

Looking for ways to show your support and help foster a sense of belonging for our LGBTQ+ members? Consider the following: 

• Commit to using gender inclusive language (see “When Greeting Others” graphic) 
• Learn the terms: LGBTQ+ Terminology - Keshet
• Be present and let folks know that you are there for them.
• Provide emotional support through listening and validating experiences (even when you might not understand them). 
• Don’t try to solve problems unless you are invited. 
• Offer to provide extra support in planning & facilitation for events that center queer voices. 
• Reach out to an ally to ask questions and continue to learn and grow. 
• Read the 2024 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People
• Follow Keshet on Instagram or Facebook Keshet

Here are a few things happening behind the scenes/progress in the works:

• Some board members attended a virtual training with Keshet last fall 
• We are engaged in Shivyon, a year-long, cohort-based project of training, consultation, and learning. Keshet is working with our group to build and support an LGBTQ+ equality working group. The group is currently drafting an action plan, which will recommend strategies for programming, policy and culture. Here are a few examples of what that might look like: 

• Programming

  • The regular slate of presenters, speakers, authors, teachers, and thinkers includes LGBTQ individuals, who teach and present on their individual areas of expertise (which may or may not include specifically LGBTQ content).

  • Policy

    • Gender inclusive language in our policies and bylaws. 

    • Creating non-discrimination, anti-harassment, and anti-bullying policies. 

  • Cultural

    • Increasing representation: LGBTQ people have opportunities across various levels of leadership and participation. Participation of LGBTQ people is not limited to "LGBTQ issues," but reflects the diverse interests and talents of LGBTQ members.

Look forward to more updates from the Keshet Shivyon Cohort and the Board. Thank you for taking time to consider how you can help make the LJCC a safe haven for our LGBTQ community members.