Pride Day in Philadelphia isn’t until June 12, but some advance events for the Jewish LGBTQ community are scheduled in the days ahead.
For example, Temple Beth Zion–Beth Israel has planned its first-ever Marom Kabbalat Pride Shabbat from 6 to 9 p.m. on May 20 at the synagogue at 300 S. 18th St. in Philadelphia. Sponsors include Spectrum Philly, Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Greater Philadelphia and J.Proud.
The event starts with a concert by Philadelphia Gay Men’s Chorus, followed by the Marom Kabbalat service, and concludes with an oneg featuring hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.
Cantor Sharon Grainer said the synagogue is working to make itself more inclusive to all of the Jewish community. The “where you belong” slogan it adopted is not just lip service, she said.
“We don’t want it to be just words,” she explained. “We want it to be a philosophy we put into action.”
Even though the synagogue doesn’t have too many LGBTQ members, it has taken several steps to make itself more inclusive, Grainer said, with Phoenix Schneider of JFCS serving as a local coach to help review policies and procedures and to train synagogue staffers.
Meanwhile, J.Proud is sponsoring Philly Pride Shabbat at the National Museum of American Jewish History, 101 S. Independence Mall E. in Philadelphia, from 6 to 9 p.m. on June 3. Mark Segal, founder and publisher of the Philadelphia Gay News, will be the speaker.
In addition, J.Proud will sponsor a Philly Trans-Health Conference Shabbat Dinner from 5:45 to 8 p.m. on June 10 at the John C. Anderson Apartment Community at 251 S. 13th St. in Philadelphia.
And J.Proud will march in the Pride Parade, which begins at 11:30 a.m. on June 12 at 13th and Locust streets.
Contact: agotlieb@jewishexponent.com; 215-832-0797
