Too often, religion is used as an argument against LGBTQ+ rights and protections. That’s why it is so important for us, as Jews, to speak up: not despite our religion, but because of it. Judaism teaches that all people are created B’tzelem Elohim, in the divine image, and that we have an ethical mandate to fight for justice and equality. Our faith calls us to act, to repair the world (tikkun olam), to ensure that every person can live with dignity and safety.

Advocacy can feel intimidating, but you’re not alone, and your voice matters. Use this discussion guide and adaptable scripts to prepare for calls, emails, or written outreach to your legislators. Each section includes Jewish framing and sample language to help you confidently speak up for LGBTQ+ rights rooted in our shared Jewish values.

Reflection Guide

Before reaching out, take a moment to reflect and prepare what you plan to share::

• What is one piece of legislation you saw last session in your state concerning LGBTQ+ rights? Was it positive or negative?
• What ended up happening with it — did it become law or was it defeated?
• Why is this kind of legislation important to you personally?
• What Jewish values inform your commitment to LGBTQ+ rights?

How would you like to see the next legislative session differ from the last in terms of LGBTQ+ rights?

You can check what anti-trans legislation was proposed in your state at: translegislation.com

Now You’re Ready! It’s Time to Find and Contact Your Representatives

You can find your state, local, and national representatives along with their contact information here. Use this link to be directed through a streamlined process to contact your elected officials.

Sample Advocacy Scripts

Phone Call Script

Hello, my name is [First and Last Name], and I’m a constituent from [City].
I’m calling to urge you to [support/oppose] [Bill Title or Number]. This legislation will [briefly describe what the bill does].

This issue is important to me because [personal reason].

As a member of the Jewish community, I believe all people are created B’tzelem Elohim, in the divine image — including LGBTQ+ members of my community.

I hope you will [support/oppose] [Bill Title/Number] and stand up for equality and dignity for all.

Thank you for your time.

Email Script

Subject: Re: [Bill Title/Number]

Dear [Representative’s Name],

My name is [First and Last Name], and I am a constituent who lives in [City]. I am writing to urge you to [support/oppose] [Bill Title/Number], which seeks to [describe purpose of the bill].

My Jewish tradition teaches that all people are created B’tzelem Elohim, in the divine image. I believe that my friends, neighbors, and family members in the LGBTQ+ community deserve the same rights and opportunities as anyone else.

As a Jew, I feel called upon to fight injustice and take action to repair the world (tikkun olam).

I urge you to join me in [supporting/opposing] [Bill Title/Number].

Thank you for your leadership and your commitment to our shared values.

Sincerely,
[First and Last Name]
[City, State, ZIP]

Social Media Post / Tweet

[@RepresentativeHandle], please [support/oppose] [Bill Title/Number] to protect LGBTQ+ rights.

My Jewish values teach that all people are created in the divine image. We must ensure dignity and equality for everyone.

@KeshetGLBTJews #Equality #TransRights #JewishValues

Postcard or Letter

Personal stories are the most powerful. Here are some examples to inspire your message:

My name is [First and Last Name], and I am a constituent who lives in [City] and the parent of a trans child. I hope that you will vote in favor of [Bill Title/Number] to show that our state values fairness and inclusion for all families.

My name is [First and Last Name], and I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community living in [City]. Please oppose [Bill Title/Number] to demonstrate your commitment to equality and safety for people like me.

My name is [First and Last Name], and I am an ally to the queer community in [City]. My Jewish tradition teaches that all people — including LGBTQ+ people — are created in the image of God. I urge you to pass [Bill Title/Number] to affirm that every person deserves dignity and equal opportunity.

Comprehensive Call Example

Hi, my name is [your name], and I’m a constituent from [City].

I want to know that I can count on [Legislator] to support LGBTQ+ rights in the upcoming legislative session. Last session, we saw [this bill/this type of bill] [proposed/go into effect], and I wanted to express my [concern/support] for similar bills this year.

Legislation like this matters to me because _______________________.

As a member of the Jewish community, I support trans rights because _______________________.

As we move into an important election year, it’s critical to stand up for LGBTQ+ rights. I hope to see [Legislator] [cosponsor/oppose] legislation like [Bill Name] in 2025.

Thank you for your time.

Final Reminders

• Personalize your message: your story and values make the biggest impact.
• Keep it short, clear, and respectful.
• Follow up! Building relationships with legislators helps ensure your voice is heard.

 Our Jewish values call on us to stand firmly for equality, inclusion, and dignity for LGBTQ+ people everywhere. Know that when you make one call, you are a part of a whole community doing the same. Together, our voices are louder! 

Ready to Take Action?

📞 Call your legislator: Click here to be connected
🌈 Learn more and stay involved: Keshetonline.org

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Keshet envisions a world in which all LGBTQ+ Jews and our families can live with full equality, justice, and dignity.  Stay connected by joining our email list and following us on social media.

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