LGBT Jews show ‘diverse and inclusive’ community at Pride

More than 150 Jewish LGBT+ community members turned out for the Pride in London 2018 parade at the weekend.

KeshetUK, a Jewish LGBT advocacy group, led the delegation, which also included youth movements and was organised in partnership with West London Synagogue, Jewish LGBT+ Group (formerly JGLG), Gay Jews In London, Beit Klal Yisrael, Imahot v’Avot and Parents of Jewish Gays and Lesbians. 

Dalia Fleming, Keshet’s executive director, said: “Singing Kol Ha’Olam Kulo through the streets of London was a message for all.

“This Hebrew song emphasises how we must not live in fear.

“The Jewish contingency in the parade showed the diverse and inclusive nature of our community and how together we can create a world free from fear of having to choose between one’s LGBT+ and Jewish identity.”

Over the weekend, hundreds also turned out for celebratory Friday night services at Kingston Liberal Synagogue and West London Synagogue.

The latter also held a ‘walk and talk’ Pride study session for those taking part in the parade.

Reflecting on the weekend, Rabbi Charley Baginsky, Liberal Judaism’s director of strategy and partnerships, said: “Liberal Judaism fully stands behind Keshet, as the voice of the Jewish LGBTQI+ Community, and hope Pride organisers meet with them soon.

“Liberal Judaism continues to provide a trans-friendly space in the community and encourage others to do the same.”

Rabbi Laura Janner-Klausner, senior rabbi to Reform Judaism, added: “There is nothing more fitting nor more Jewish than the proud representation of our community at this weekend’s massive pride march in London.”