Rabbi Kelly Whitehead

Rabbi Kelly Whitehead (she/they) is the Assistant Director of Engagement and Learning at the Union for Reform Judaism. She was ordained from HUC-JIR in New York ('24), where she received her MA in Hebrew Literature and her M.A. in Jewish Nonprofit Management. Rabbi Whitehead is the creator of NFTY's Teen Jews of Color Fellowship. She serves on the board of T'ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights and was selected as one of The NY Jewish Week's 36 under 36 for 2021.

Photo of a person blowing the shofar

Five Things to Consider this Yom Kippur

Rabbi Kelly Whitehead
Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish year, does not offer simple answers. As we enter this sacred time, here are five questions to help elevate the day with deeper meaning.
Photo of a shofar, kiddish cup and old prayer book

Two Pockets, Two Lessons, One New Year

Rabbi Kelly Whitehead, Rabbi Julie Zupan
As the shofar’s call approaches and we step into the sacred space of a new year, we are invited to hold two truths at once: that our lives matter beyond measure, and that we are but a small part of a vast and unfolding universe.
Photo of a man blowing the shofar

Elul is Calling

Rabbi Kelly Whitehead
During the month of Elul, we are invited to listen deeply. Each weekday morning, we are invited to hear the cry of the shofar, marking the beginning of our spiritual journey toward the High Holy Days.
Progressive Pride Flag

Reflecting on Transgender Awareness Week in 2021

Hannah Bender, Eliana Rubin, Rabbi Kelly Whitehead, Rachel Klein
Transgender Awareness Week is a chance to educate the public. It is important for people who are not part of the trans community to understand the oppression transgender and gender-expansive people face every day. While it is always important to affirm trans identities, Transgender Awareness Week provides an opportunity to center the voices of trans and gender-expansive people.

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