5/29/24
This Shabbat brings the new month of June, which means it’s time to kick off Pride month. While Pride month is a secular observance, it has everything to do with Jewish values. The past few years, I have shared and taught that Pride month is a very important time on the Jewish calendar–a time to Celebrate, Collaborate, Commemorate, Educate, and Unify. As we do all of this we naturally re-connect with core Jewish values and commit to a relationship of solidarity and allyship with our LGTBQ family.
The very first Pride marches were held on June 28th, 1970– the one year anniversary of the Stonewall uprising in New York. This was a major turning point for the LGBTQ+ community and began raising awareness, securing rights, and celebrating the freedom to be exactly who we are. We understand this freedom in Judaism with a phrase from Torah, B’tzelem Elohim–being made in G-d’s image. We love ourselves exactly as we are, because each of us is made in the image of the Divine. Each of us is unique, beautiful, and holy. This is worthy of celebration!
We give thanks for this sacred time on the calendar. May this Pride month bring festive celebration. May we experience the freedom to express ourselves authentically, without fear or anxiety. May we deepen our resolve to stand in solidarity with all our brothers and sisters who are marginalized and at risk. May we live our Jewish values to their fullest. Amen.
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