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Temple Beth El
After school / Supplemental Hebrew School; Social Group; Synagogue or Prayer Group; Youth Group; Not Listed
Reform
253-564-7101
5975 S 12th Street
Tacoma, Washington 98465

About

Our synagogue is led by clergy, staff, and lay leaders who either identify as LGBTQ+ or are allies. LGBTQ+ inclusion is expected as a basic norm. While we have an affinity group for the LGBTQ+ community, we have only had a handful of events because members are busy with leadership and involvement in other aspects of congregational life.

Located in Tacoma, Washington, Temple Beth El serves as the hub of Jewish life in Pierce County, home to over 900,000 people. Our offerings include engaging educational programs, inspiring worship services, exciting social events, and impactful opportunities for tikkun olam—repairing the world. At Temple Beth El, Shabbat and holiday worship come alive with meaning and connection. We blend tradition and innovation, weaving music, participation, and learning into every service. Whether you’re a lifelong member or joining us for the first time, you’ll find a place that feels like home. Our vibrant community is more than a congregation—it’s a family. We’re proud to host a dynamic religious school and one of Tacoma’s most respected early learning centers, nurturing Jewish identity and values from the very start. We celebrate the rich diversity of our members and warmly welcome everyone, including individuals, families, interfaith families, Jews-by-choice, Jews of color, those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and all those seeking a connection to Jewish life. No matter where you’re from or what your background is, your story adds to the beautiful tapestry of our community. Join us at Temple Beth El—where tradition meets innovation, and everyone has a place to belong.

Listing Details

Organizational Policies

  • Benefits such as health insurance, parental leave, etc. are gender-neutral and LGBTQ+ inclusive
  • Has written nondiscrimination and anti-harassment policy that mentions gender identity and expression
  • Participation in gender-specific programs is based on gender identity
  • Has written nondiscrimination and anti-harassment policy that mentions sexual orientation
  • All registration forms have been updated for LGBTQ+ belonging (i.e. adult 1 / 2 , parents or guardians, expansive gender options, pronouns, etc)

Programming

  • Offers LGBTQ+ affinity spaces
  • Engages with LGBTQ+ civil rights in a way that is consistent with our engagement with civil rights for any core constituency
  • Curriculum and educational materials reflect LGBTQ+ people and identities
  • Has regular programming on LGBTQ+ themes
  • Observes LGBTQ+ days of significance (such as Pride, National Coming Out Day, Transgender Day of Visibility, etc)
  • Speakers/presenters/scholars in residence include LGBTQ+ people

Ritual

  • Offers and frequently uses gender-expansive ritual language
  • Celebrates LGBTQ+ life cycle events

Spaces

  • Has all-gender restroom/s and locker/changing rooms (if applicable) available

Staff & Leadership

  • LGBTQ+ people are represented in our senior leadership
  • LGBTQ+ people are represented on our board