Related Blog Posts on LGBTQ+ Jewish Life and Secular Holidays

a soldier standing next to an air field with planes behind him while holding a shofar
Secular Holidays

No, Thank *You* For Your Service

Rabbi Lawrence Freedman
It wasn't because of 9/11. It wasn't because I had a tradition of military service in my family. And while the pay and benefits are nice, it wasn't for those reasons, either. That wasn't why I joined the U.S. Air Force Reserves in 2003 and later switched to the Air National Guard. I joined for the same reason I became a rabbi: I have a desire to serve others and be part of something larger than myself.
female and male symbol combined and written with chalk
Racial Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

Affirming and Loving Transgender, Non-Binary, and Gender Expansive Grandchildren

The Union for Reform Judaism, Jewish Grandparents Network, and Keshet are collaborating on a series of conversations to support grandparents and other loving adults who are interested in providing affirming spaces for gender expansive, non-binary, and transgender young people. These sessions provide grandparents with foundational knowledge, shared language, and inclusive practices.
Waning crescent moon on black background
Secular Holidays

4 Spooky Mystical Jewish Figures

Crystal Hill
Even though Halloween began as a pagan holiday, it now brings spooky fun to children and adults of all backgrounds, including many Jews who view it more as a traditional holiday than a religious holiday.
LGBTQ+ Equality

Affirming Trans & Non-Binary Youth in Our Jewish Communities

This Pride Month, NFTY North American Board members Daniella Abbott and Cameron Samuels joined HUC rabbinical student Kelly Whitehead to discuss how their trans and non-binary identities have influenced their attitude toward systems of oppressions in the wake of new legislation aimed at attacking queer identities.
new years day fireworks
Secular Holidays

A Jewish Take on New Year’s Resolutions

Dasee Berkowitz
New Year's Day and the traditional resolutions that accompany it invite us to take stock of our lives. Are we living our lives to the fullest? Can we imagine a future in which the commitments we make for ourselves (e.g., healthier habits around eating and exercise) actually come true? What will it take this year to really change?
Aron's family
Secular Holidays

My Father Was a Quiet Man

Aron Hirt-Manheimer

My father was a quiet man. He was not one to engage in philosophical or political discussions. He did not tell people what to think or how to live.

Had Pop left me and my sister an ethical will, it would have emphasized love of mishpucha (family).