In a few weeks we will be celebrating Trans Visibility and Awareness Shabbat with a special Rabbi-in-residence for Shabbat, Rabbi Rona Matlow. November 17th, Friday night, and 18th,Shabbat Morning, everyone is welcome.
Why Trans issues? Of all the many social issues that we could address as a community why did I choose to highlight those of Trans people?
1. I have always valued people who I witness struggle with their own identities and then do the hard work of becoming who they were meant to be in this world. I just want to get to know these people and learn from them. When I see the courage, strength and persistence of people within the Trans community to become their true selves, I am inspired. And I hope you will be inspired too. Infinite possibility at work!
2. It is hard to be a minority. Especially if you challenge gender norms. Our country is an unfriendly place for Trans people, with our current executive branch of government committed to further marginalization and oppression. To live proudly in this climate is an act of resistance. It should be honored. And it is our obligation as Jews to advocate for and uplift those in our society who are being marginalized and targeted.
3. Our community has not been as welcoming towards Trans people in the past as I would have hoped. During my three years at Kol Ami I have witnessed several incidents of Transphobia. Real people have been hurt by the attitudes of people (mostly no longer members) who are not comfortable with Trans people. Some people have left the community specifically because of our efforts to be inclusive. We have work to do as a community and we also need to do TIKKUN, repair work. This Shabbat dedicated to Trans Visibility and Awareness is an effort to start the healing now. To mend the breach. And to make it fully known to all of our LGBTQ brothers, sisters and those who do not identify as either: we got you. We stand with you.
I hope you will join me in celebrating this special Shabbat and in welcoming Rabbi Matlow to our community.
Why Trans issues? Of all the many social issues that we could address as a community why did I choose to highlight those of Trans people?
1. I have always valued people who I witness struggle with their own identities and then do the hard work of becoming who they were meant to be in this world. I just want to get to know these people and learn from them. When I see the courage, strength and persistence of people within the Trans community to become their true selves, I am inspired. And I hope you will be inspired too. Infinite possibility at work!
2. It is hard to be a minority. Especially if you challenge gender norms. Our country is an unfriendly place for Trans people, with our current executive branch of government committed to further marginalization and oppression. To live proudly in this climate is an act of resistance. It should be honored. And it is our obligation as Jews to advocate for and uplift those in our society who are being marginalized and targeted.
3. Our community has not been as welcoming towards Trans people in the past as I would have hoped. During my three years at Kol Ami I have witnessed several incidents of Transphobia. Real people have been hurt by the attitudes of people (mostly no longer members) who are not comfortable with Trans people. Some people have left the community specifically because of our efforts to be inclusive. We have work to do as a community and we also need to do TIKKUN, repair work. This Shabbat dedicated to Trans Visibility and Awareness is an effort to start the healing now. To mend the breach. And to make it fully known to all of our LGBTQ brothers, sisters and those who do not identify as either: we got you. We stand with you.
I hope you will join me in celebrating this special Shabbat and in welcoming Rabbi Matlow to our community.
Many blessings,
Rabbi Yohanna Kinberg
