View in browser

The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is committed to creating welcoming Jewish spaces where all are accepted. This month’s FedFive is dedicated to the work we do to support organizations, programs and initiatives that support the LGBTQ+ community and diverse Jewish life.

And as we celebrate Pride, we continue to stand with Israel – the only country in the Middle East where it is legal to be gay – and with all faiths and backgrounds who call it home. Although a ceasefire has been declared, the region remains fragile, and we continue to stand against terrorism and threats from the Islamic Republic of Iran. To stay updated on the crisis in Israel, click here.

Supporting Inclusion

“Being a queer woman and growing up not really knowing many queer people, I know how crucial it is for teens nowadays to have that representation and have someone they can trust and talk to about their identities. I want to make sure they see queer adults who are living their lives proudly and joyfully.”

– Gila Axelrod, Moving Traditions’ Rosh Hodesh Group Leader and Past Participant

The Jewish Federation funds organizations to support and provide safe spaces for underrepresented communities. Here’s how some of the organizations that receive funding from the Jewish Federation work toward building a more inclusive Jewish community:

73% of Abramson Center for Jewish Life clientele are Russian-speaking
25% of Tribe 12's community members identify as LGBTQ+
170+ Ethiopian Israeli teens and university students participated in Olim Beyahad's program to promote excellence and leadership among gifted Ethiopian Israeli teens and young adults

To learn more about organizations supported by the Jewish Federation,
click here.

June Pride Mission Takes on Additional Meaning

“During our Pride 2025 mission to Israel, I stood proudly at the intersection of identity, heritage, and hope, celebrating the strength and beauty of LGBTQ voices within our global Jewish family. This journey wasn’t just meaningful, it was transformative. It reminded me that inclusion, dignity, and pride are not abstract ideals, but deep personal values we must embody and champion every day."

– Max Tabak, Greater Philadelphia Community Member

The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) held a Pride Mission to Israel from June 8 - 12. The end of the mission, which brought LGBTQ+ Jewish leaders from across North America together for an immersive experience, was disrupted with the start of Operation Rising Lion. While Tel Aviv’s Pride parade was canceled due to attacks, Greater Philadelphia community member and mission goer Max Tabak explained how the pride felt by the participants could not be stopped. Baruch Hashem, through the support networks of Jewish Federations, Tabak returned safely to the United States and shared what the experience meant to him. You can find more about JFNA’s Pride mission by clicking here.

Finding Your LGBTQ+ Jewish Community

“Building a united community is more essential than ever during these times of division and hate. The Jewish Federation continues to create opportunities that celebrate Jewish pride and identity, while fostering a welcoming community where all people are treated with dignity and respect."

– Lori Rubin, Director of Leadership Development and Governance

Inclusivity has deep roots within Jewish tradition, stemming from the biblical phrase "B'tzelem Elohim," which means all people are made in G-d's likeness and, therefore, should be treated with respect. Upholding this tenant, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia remains dedicated in its commitment to creating welcoming Jewish spaces where all are accepted. The Jewish Federation is proud to work with its partners, grantees, and allies who advance the movement for equality, visibility, and inclusion.

If you are looking for a space that provides friendships, resources and more, click here to discover a few of the local organizations that the Jewish Federation supports which specifically focus on the LGBTQ+ Jewish community.

Focusing on LGBTQ+ Elders

“All elders need our focus, but LGBTQ+ elders have a particularly difficult place. That is why the elder initiative was created. Some folks in this community were initially alienated from their birth families when they came out. They had to create their own chosen families. Now, as they age, they are witnessing the gradual loss of their chosen family and they are left feeling increasingly isolated and alone."

– Michael Byrne, Jewish Family and Children's Service of Greater Philadelphia Therapist

New chapters in life can begin at any age, and each one deserves to be celebrated. Through the Bernard and Etta Weinberg Family Fund, the Jewish Federation is proud to support the pilot of the LGBTQ+ Elder Initiative, led by Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Greater Philadelphia (JFCS), which ensures that as seniors enter a new phase of life, they are not left behind.

Focusing on older adults who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community, the program includes individual and group therapy to foster community therapeutic support and connection. Offerings range from dialectical behavioral therapy and stress tolerance, to creative arts, and mindfulness groups aimed at rebuilding confidence and self-worth. Learn more here.

All at OneTable

“I am deeply grateful to the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia for their generous support of our work at OneTable. Their commitment has empowered us to create and sustain more inclusive, affirming spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals to gather, connect and celebrate Shabbat together."

– Chaim Levin, OneTable Philadelphia Field Manager

Shabbat is more than a meal — it’s a moment to connect, reflect and build community. That’s why the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is proud to support OneTable, an organization that creates inclusive and meaningful Shabbat experiences.

With the help of Jewish Federation funding, OneTable equips volunteers to host peer-led Shabbat dinners using a custom platform that makes gathering easy, accessible and welcoming — especially for LGBTQ+ individuals and others seeking affirming Jewish spaces.

To learn more about how you can join and create a Shabbat dinner where everyone is welcomed at the table, click here.

HERE AS ONE

Show the world that we are Here As One by supporting the Jewish Federation’s mission of Caring for Those in Need, Supporting Israel and Global Jewry, and Securing a Vibrant Jewish Future. Make your gift before year’s end by clicking here.