Resource Category: LGBTQIA+

Jewish tradition asserts that inclusion and openness are central values, first presented by Abraham and Sarah, whose tent was always open to everyone (Bereshit Rabbah 48:9). This includes the needs and concerns of holy LQBTQIA+ members of our community.

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. The LGBTQ+ experience reflects the Jewish values from our stories beautifully — a celebration of resistance, advocacy, liberation, radical joy and hope in the face of challenges.
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 and contribute to mental health and wellness for us all.
By Shoshana Nerenberg | June, which often houses Shavuot, is the national month of Pride, but our inclusion of the LGBTQIA+ Jews into our broader communities shouldn’t end there! There are lots of ways to incorporate inclusion into the day to day, and a lot of important information that you should constantly be aware of. If you’re feeling a bit lost on some little (and not so little) ways to be more queer inclusive this year, this is the resource for you.
At the Blue Dove foundation, we recognize that 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. Adults also need support when it comes to connecting with a trans teen.
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? If so, what are you meant to do? How do Jewish Mental Health Values teach us about being an Ally?
Much progress has been made in the push for equal rights and inclusion in the LGBTQIA+ community; however, a great deal of work remains to be done. Nearly 75 percent of LGBTQIA+ youth surveyed in a recent study reported having faced discrimination based on their sexual orientation, and 42 percent reported seriously considering suicide in the past year (The Trevor Project)...