In the News

Lezbitzen, Queeruv, and Gaymara: Queer Jewish Language with Miryam Kabakov and Eden Moyal

Miryam Kabakov, executive director of Eshel, and Eden Moyal, a sociolinguist, discuss the intersection of queer identity, Jewish languages, and Orthodox spaces. Eden details the sociolinguistic mechanics of identity, explaining how queer Jews use playful portmanteaus like lezbtzn and Gaymara. She describes their linguistic expressions as deeply infused with reclaimed Yiddish words like umtsveyik and transminik to express their dual identities. Through Eshel’s advocacy, Miryam builds communal empathy and supports queer Orthodox Jews, best expressed by the slogan, “We’re here, we’re queer, we’re machmir.” They conclude by discussing how shifting language over time reflects changing attitudes and helps Orthodox families navigate identity, grief, and religious faith.

faithgriefinterviewpodcast

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Participants, including a man wearing a kippah, listen to a woman speaking.

Join Our Community

Looking for ways to connect with Eshel?

Find out about our latest events and initiatives through our newsletter. Get updates geared towards LGBTQ+ people, parents, allies, or all of the above.