Background:

The Torah teaches that each human is created B’tzelem Elohim (Bereishit 1:26), in the divine image. This is a simple yet profound idea that should guide our interactions with all people. True belonging, inclusion, and justice are built on this foundation. It is through our values that we know Jewish action for LGBTQ+ rights is imperative. LGBTQ+ people, and especially trans youth, are facing escalating political attacks that cause real harm regardless of whether they ultimately become law. Every bill, policy proposal, and public conversation sends a message about whose lives and dignity are up for debate in the public forum. It is our responsibility to take bold action in the public forum to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to LGBTQ+ equality.

Key points for legislative interactions: 

• • Jewish communities have an opportunity to live our values and demonstrate that our faith will advocate loudly for LGBTQ+ rights. 
  • As Jews, we know the danger of silence when minorities are targeted and that when one community can be targeted, no one is safe. 
  • The LGBTQ+ community deserves the same access to safety and opportunities as everyone else, as we are all created B’tselem Elohim, in the divine image.

Today’s challenge:

Candidates and lawmakers are using LGBTQ+ rights as political bargaining chips, including through policies that target gender-affirming care, school inclusion, sports participation, bathroom access, and access to accurate governmental identification.

Why it matters:

Everyone, regardless of their identity, deserves to be fully safe, valued and protected.

What elected officials should do:

Ensure your LGBTQ+ community members know that those elected to represent them have their best interest at heart. Oppose legislation that targets LGBTQ+ people, protect access to gender-affirming care and nondiscrimination protections, ensure safe and inclusive schools and public spaces, counter harmful rhetoric and misinformation, and partner with LGBTQ+, Jewish, faith, and civil rights organizations.

Questions to ask your elected officials:

• LGBTQ+ equality: What specific actions will you take to protect and advance LGBTQ+ equality this legislative session?
• Trans youth: Will you use your platform and position to reject harmful rhetoric that scapegoats trans youth, and oppose legislation that targets trans youth including restrictions on gender-affirming care, sports participation, bathrooms, or access to accurate governmental identification?
• Nondiscrimination: What will you do to ensure that LGBTQ+ people can access healthcare, education, housing, and other essential services without discrimination?
• Coalition work: How will you work with LGBTQ+, Jewish, faith, and other community organizations to ensure that affected voices are reflected in your work?

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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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