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Throughout the country, anti-LGBTQ+ politicians are advancing new anti-trans and anti-LGBQ+ policies. The basic rights and dignity of trans and LGBQ+ children, adults, and families are at risk – whether they can safely attend school, access health care, play sports, use a bathroom, and live their daily lives. The federal Equality Act would end all these anti-LGBTQ+ policies – but it’s stuck in the Senate. While the Equality Act sits in the Senate, state legislators are proposing hundreds of anti-LGBTQ+ bills and it is important for us to make our voices heard at every level of government.

As Jews, we know how it feels to be treated as outsiders.

It is imperative that we call on ourselves and our communities to act for a world where we honor what is holy and unique in every person and treat others as they would like to be treated.

Here’s how you can protect trans youth and advance LGBTQ+ equality.

1. Call your federal and state legislators – all of them – and ask them to defend and protect LGBTQ+ people.

You can look up all your local, state, and federal representatives in one place here. Call each office and urge your legislator to get off the sidelines:

“Hello, my name is [First and Last Name] and I am a constituent living in [City].

I am calling to urge [Name of Representative or Senator] to support the entire LGBTQ+ community. I expect my representatives/senators to represent me and take positive action to protect trans youth and advance LGBTQ+ equality in every way your office can.

It’s not enough to just vote the right way. My Jewish tradition teaches me to treat other people as they would like to be treated – with dignity and respect – and not to sit idly by, as if there is nothing I can do, when people who are just living their lives are being attacked and hurt.

I expect your office to take action to protect all LGBTQ+ people in our community. Thank you for your time.”

2. Bring Keshet’s Community Mobilization team to your community!

We will customize an online program for your community about LGBTQ+ rights in your state and how you can make change. Email us at [email protected].

3. Keep learning.

Right-wing politicians exploit many people’s lack of familiarity with the LGBTQ+ community, especially around gender. Read recent press and stay informed. Start with these two pieces by Keshet staff, “It’s a Mitzvah! Take Action for LGBTQ+ Rights” and “Taking Action for LGBTQ+ Rights As A Jewish Teen”.

4. Support Keshet and get involved!

Click here to donate to Keshet, and sign up for our email list.

5. Tell the LGBTQ+ youth in your family and community that you love them and will never stop fighting for them!

Check out this support and resource list for LGBTQ+ teens and allies.