MJF LGBT task force expands its projects

   Several decades ago, Jewish congregations and organization began a concerted effort to give women a more active role. Some years ago, an endeavor began to actively include intermarried couples in these congregations and organization.

   Now, an effort to reach out to and involve Wisconsin’s Jewish lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender population is underway.

   Last summer, the Milwaukee Jewish Federation created a task force to reach out to the Jewish and general LGBT communities, facilitated by Rabbi Hannah Greenstein, the MJF vice president of outreach and leadership.

   Their first effort was to create and staff a booth at the 2013 Pridefest. Pamphlets and other such materials from many local organizations and congregations were available. One of the most popular pieces was a pamphlet describing the positive LGBT situation in Israel and encouraging LGBT tourism to Israel.

   This year, the task force’s projects have expanded. A research project looking into the hiring and insurance policies of local Jewish organizations has begun.

   A publicity campaign was instituted, with articles like this going to local publications such as The Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle and The Wisconsin Gazette, a newspaper serving the LGBT community.

   In 2014, the biggest project will be an expanded presence at Pridefest, June 6-8 at the Henry Maier Festival Park, 200 N. Harbor Dr.

   In addition to the informational booth in the “Health & Wellness Area,” there will be a family-friendly Kabbalat Shabbat service Friday night, June 6, 6:30-7:30 p.m.; a day-long educational Shabbaton Saturday and marching in the LGBT Pride Parade Sunday afternoon.

   The task force is comprised of LGBT people and others working to create a more sensitive, inclusive and caring society; to promote equality for all people; and to develop programming by and for both the Jewish and larger LGBT community. Members include clergy, educators and community lay leaders.

   Several congregations have undertaken projects in support of these efforts. Congregation Sinai recently held a screening of “Trembling Before God,” a documentary about LGBT people in the Orthodox Jewish community.

   Congregation Shalom is working on a “Human Rights Weekend.” Other congregations are also contemplating related programming.

   Anyone interested in volunteering for Pridefest activities, or looking for more information, should contact the MJF office.

   Susie Rosengarten and Neil Hootkin are volunteers for the Milwaukee Jewish Federation’s LGBT/Allies outreach effort.