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Jewish organizations, such as synagogues, Hebrew schools, camps, and day schools, are private religious institutions. For better or for worse, there are limits to the extent that the government can regulate your programs and policies.

Your Jewish organization might be one of the few places where LGBTQ+ people in your community – especially youth – can exist in an affirming way. Many anti-LGBTQ+ laws that apply to public schools and public spaces do not apply to our Jewish spaces.

Anti-LGBTQ+ legislation can open the door for people to claim that they have a right to express homophobia or transphobia in your Jewish space, or to push back against inclusive programming. The key to combating this pushback is to understand the specifics of laws, and not overcorrecting in the name of adhering to them.

Jewish institutions can:

• Continue to be a supportive and safe space for trans youth
• Know that, in general, as a Jewish institution, most anti-LGBTQ+ state laws do not apply to whatever happens in your building
• Prepare with thorough understandings of the laws in your state so that you can confidently and accurately combat any pushback

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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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