Affirmation of Support for the LGBTQIA+ Community

The Federation of Jewish Men’s Clubs (FJMC) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to standing with the LGBTQIA+ community and, in particular, our trans siblings, even in the face of efforts to legally enforce a narrow and binary understanding of gender.

We recognize that such policies contradict the Jewish value of seeing every human as created b’tzelem Elohim—in the image of the Divine—and deny the rich diversity of human experience. Our tradition teaches us to pursue justice (tzedek tzedek tirdof), to love our neighbors as ourselves (v’ahavta l’reiacha kamocha), and to protect the vulnerable among us.

Regardless of the legal or political landscape, we are resolute in ensuring that all people, regardless of their gender identity or expression, are fully embraced, respected, and celebrated in our spaces.

To that end, FJMC pledges to:

1. Boldly Defend Human Dignity:

Lo ta’amod al dam rei’echa – Do not stand idly by the blood of your neighbor.

Publicly and unequivocally oppose any policy or law that denies the rights or humanity of trans and nonbinary individuals.

2. Educate and Empower:

Lilmod u’lelamed – To learn and to teach.

Expand training programs for our members, leaders, and clergy to understand the complexities of gender and the harmful effects of policies that erase trans identities.

3. Adapt Rituals and Practices:

Hiddur mitzvah – Beautifying practices

Maintain and continue developing gender-affirming rituals, language, and practices to ensure inclusivity for all who wish to participate.

4. Safe and Affirming Spaces:

Hachnasat orchim – Welcoming guests

Create and uphold spaces where LGBTQIA+ and trans people feel fully welcomed and safe, regardless of external pressures or laws.

5. Advocate for Justice:

Rodef shalom – Pursuing peace

Partner with Jewish and secular organizations to advocate for policies that protect the rights of trans and nonbinary individuals, amplifying the voices of those most affected.

6. Lift Up the Marginalized:

Kol Yisrael arevim zeh ba-zeh – All of Israel is responsible for one another.

Intentionally include LGBTQIA+ and trans leaders in our decision-making, programming, and leadership to ensure their voices shape the future of our community and movement.

We stand firm in our belief that all individuals deserve to live authentically and with dignity. FJMC will remain a beacon of support and love for trans and LGBTQIA+ individuals, demonstrating through our actions that our Jewish values compel us to stand on the side of justice and inclusion. As such, from this moment on, FJMC will host the Pride and Trans flags on our website (see below).

May we continue to build a world that reflects the fullness of the Divine’s creation, honoring the diversity and sanctity of all lives.