Dear TEE community,
This weekend marks the observance of LGBTQ+ Pride in Rochester. In addition to our Pride Shabbat service on Friday night, we will be marching in the parade on Saturday. I use the word “observance” rather than “celebration” because this is a time of great anxiety and uncertainty in the American LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly transgender people, face unprecedented legislative attacks and violence.
This should be of concern to all American Jews as we know that, historically, both communities have been targeted by the same extremist ideologies. Our shared experience of systematic persecution creates a unique bond and mutual understanding of what it means to be vulnerable to hate.
Many Jewish Americans are themselves LGBTQ+, making this solidarity deeply personal within Jewish communities. Supporting Pride means supporting Jewish family members, friends, and community members who live at the intersection of these identities.
Furthermore, the fight for LGBTQ+ rights represents a broader struggle for pluralism and acceptance in American society — values that have historically protected Jewish communities as well. When minority rights are threatened anywhere, they’re threatened everywhere.
When Jewish communities advocate for LGBTQ+ equality, we are living out core religious principles about human dignity and social responsibility. We also strengthen the diverse coalitions that make America safer and more inclusive for all marginalized groups. This support reflects both moral obligation and practical wisdom about building a society where difference is celebrated rather than feared.
With all of this in mind, I encourage you to show up for Pride this weekend in whatever ways you can. The Jewish concept of hineini — “here I am” — calls us to show up fully in moments that matter. This weekend is one of those moments. Whether you join us in the parade, attend our Pride Shabbat service, or simply engage in conversations about LGBTQ+ equality and acceptance in your daily life, you are contributing to the vital work of building a more just society. Our participation in Pride is not just about supporting others — it is about protecting the fabric of a pluralistic democracy that allows all of our communities to thrive.
This weekend, let us stand firmly with our LGBTQ+ members and neighbors. Let our larger community know that our Jewish values compel us to speak out against hatred and stand up for justice, demonstrating that the Jewish community can be a beacon of light and hope.
Thank you for being part of this important work.
With pride,
Rabbi Drorah Setel