Eshel Brooklyn Women's LBTQ+ Meetup
2023-11-21 20:30 - 21:45 (America/New_York)
Women’s New York Area Meetup on Zoom
What: Meet other individuals who identify as female and who are exploring their Orthodox LGBTQ+ identities.
When: Meeting Weekly: Every Tuesday from 8:30 pm – 9:45 pm
Where: For notifications and sign-in information, register below. (You only need to register for this group one time.)

Chanukah Candle Lighting Meet and Greet
2023-12-14 17:00 - 19:00 | JCC in Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave. at 76th St., New York, NY, 10023
Meet us at 5 pm for a community candle lighting and meet and greet. Drop in and enjoy some Hanukkah treats 🍩 and meet some new friends. No need to RSVP. Family friendly and open to allies!
Where? Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan334 Amsterdam Ave at, W 76th St, New York, NY 10023Lobby

Closeted Men's Support Group
2023-12-19 20:00 - 21:00, 2024-01-16 20:00 - 21:00, 2024-04-16 20:00 - 21:00
Connect with other closeted Orthodox men in a welcoming, supportive, and confidential peer support group. This group offers a warm and empathetic environment where you can share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with other LGBTQ+ frum, Jewish men. This is a nonjudgmental space to explore your questions and concerns wherever you are on your journey. We welcome those from all backgrounds, whether you’re Chassidic, Haredi, Yeshivish, modern Orthodox, or not sure where you fit.
Second Tuesday of the month
8:00 pm ET / 7:00 pm CT / 6:00 pm MT / 5:00 pm PT

Israel Parent Meetup
2023-12-20 12:00 - 14:00
Join Eshel’s local chapter in Israel for parents of LGBTQ+ children.
This group will provide support and build community in an intimate, confidential setting in English. This group meets in person most months, with a Zoom meeting once per quarter.
Wednesday, December 20 at 7:00 pm Israel Time in Beit Shemesh
Register below for monthly reminders, links, and location details.

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Closeted in Crown Heights
2024-01-03 20:15 - 21:45
In our community, there are many women who feel vulnerable and that they have much to lose if they come out: a job, housing, children, or family. This group is here to provide mutual support and unconditional love no matter where your journey is leading you. This support group is a non-judgmental space – there is no pressure to change your situation unless you want to.
This group might be for you if you:

Are a woman in the closet
Are married or divorced
Have children
Are afraid of what you might lose if you come out

This is a confidential group. Respect for each others’ desire to remain confidential or anonymous is of the utmost importance.
This group will meet in person in Crown Heights, but participants living in other locations are welcome.

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LGBTQ+ Support Group
2024-01-08 20:00 - 21:00
A confidential space for LGBTQ+ adults who are Orthodox, formerly Orthodox, or Orthodox-adjacent to access peer support, share their experiences, and connect and gain insights from others.

Second Monday of the month
8:00 pm ET, 7:00 pm CT, 6:00 pm MT, 5:00 pm PT
Register below for Zoom link and to receive notifications each month.

Israel Parent Meetup with Sunnie Epstein
2024-01-10 12:30 - 14:00
Join Eshel’s Israel chapter for Orthodox parents of LGBTQ+ children! We’re excited to welcome Dr. Sunnie Sterling Epstein to join our group and facilitate a discussion on how we can all navigate the new twists and turns in our lives. Join us Wednesday, January 10 at 7:30 pm at the home of an Eshel parent in Arnona.
Register for location.

Eshel National Retreat 2024
2024-01-12 - 2024-01-14
Friday January 12 – Sunday January 14
Isabella Freedman
Falls Village, CT

Register Now

Top Hats, Tichels, and Tiaras: The Many Hats We Wear
Join us in celebrating the beauty and diversity of our Eshel community. We all wear different hats in different areas of our lives. We are large – we contain multitudes. We are children, parents, grandparents, siblings, partners, friends. We are students, professionals, retirees, creatives, entrepreneurs, explorers. We come from communities that are modern Orthodox, Haredi, Chassidic, traditional, Ashkenazi, Sephardi. Our genders and sexual identities span every inch of the rainbow. In many aspects of our lives, we promote or downplay certain aspects of who we are. This weekend, we will explore and embrace the many different sides of ourselves.

Eshel is like coming home, only better. Meeting new and old friends, in a natural setting, with interesting programming – its something I look forward to all year long.
Sheindy

I came to appreciate that there are so many in our Jewish community who want to feel accepted and valued – and that our Jewish community institutions and organizations sometimes don’t provide that … Eshel, and a retreat like this, plays an important role in addressing an issue that often flies under the radar.
Keith Krivitzky

This was my first ever LGBT event and I felt washed over with love and tenderness. I felt really seen.
Anonymous

Is this retreat for me?What happens at the retreat?What does the Isabella Freedman Retreat Center offer?How do I get there?Is there financial aid available?

Wherever you are on your journey, whether you are questioning, closeted, or looking for community: this is the place for you. We strive to make this a judgement-free space for learning and personal growth. We only ask that each attendee agree to respect other participants’ feelings and attitudes. Each person is on their own journey, which includes many detours, twists, and turns. Come with an open mind and remember that everyone’s path is unique.
Queer or LGBTQ+ adults and families are welcome. Children’s programming will be provided throughout many parts of the retreat.
We all have our own unique Jewish journeys. This is a space for those who are committed to or see themselves in communities of traditional Jewish observance. We welcome participants of all backgrounds, including Modern Orthodox, Yeshivish, Chassidic, Sephardi, traditional, formerly Orthodox, and Ortho-curious.
We take confidentiality very seriously. All participants must agree and sign Eshel’s confidentiality policy. Retreat attendees may not disclose the identity of anyone else without explicit permission. Participants can only share what they hear at the retreat with an individual’s permission.

At our national retreat, the largest annual gathering of LGBTQ+ Orthodox Jews, we spend Shabbat getting to know each other, davening, learning, singing, shmoozing, and relaxing. On Saturday night, we let loose and have fun together! Sunday provides more opportunities to learn together, including some unique activities. Past offerings have included text studies such as “Leviticus through the Looking Glass,” “Gender Transformations in Rabbininc Literature,” as well as safrut, rainbow candle making, and “Sensuality and the Sacred in 1900 Queer Jewish Writing.” Throughout the retreat, you’ll be part of a small chaburah group to discuss and process each step of the journey.
We welcome proposals for sessions from participants. Contact info@eshelonline.org for more information.

Beautiful indoor and outdoor gathering spaces
Delicious, sustainable, and glatt kosher food under supervision of the Hartford Kashrut Commission
Shomer Shabbat environment in beautiful surroundings
A commitment to sustainability through energy efficiency, food justice, animal welfare, and supporting healthy ecosystems
Conveniently located within 2.5 hours of New York and Boston
A shuttle service from the nearest Metro North station
Learn more about the facilities

Participants are responsible for transportation to and from the retreat. Isabella Freedman retreat center is located about a 2.5 hour drive from New York, a 3.5 hour drive from Boston, or just over an hour from Hartford. We offer a shuttle service from the Wassaic Metro North station to and from Isabella Freedman for $35 each way.

We are able to provide flexible payment plans to all retreat attendees – email sara@eshelonline.org to request a weekly or monthly payment plan.
For some, attending the National Retreat may require some sacrifice – choosing to cut back on other discretionary spending such as going out to dinner, buying coffee, or paying for entertainment. We believe the transformative experience of the national retreat is worthwhile. For others, attending the cost of attending the National Retreat may present a hardship if it would make it difficult to put food on the table, pay rent, or pay for transportation to work. If attending the national retreat would present a hardship for you, you may be eligible to receive financial aid.
If you are interested in financial aid to attend the retreat, please fill out our application form to help us better understand your needs. The deadline to apply for financial aid is December 4. You will receive a confirmation email once your application has been received – please reach out to us if you don’t get a confirmation email. Financial aid decisions will be emailed out on a rolling basis.

Registration for the National Retreat is now closed. Please contact sara@eshelonline.org for information about joining the waitlist.

Israel Parent Meetup
2024-01-17 12:30 - 13:00, 2024-03-26 13:30 - 14:30
Join Eshel’s local chapter in Israel for parents of LGBTQ+ children.
This group will provide support and build community in an intimate, confidential setting in English. This group meets in person most months, with a Zoom meeting once per quarter.
Register below for monthly reminders, links, and location details.

Sign up for our other newsletters

LA Queer Kabbalat Shabbat
2024-02-02 18:00 - 20:00
Friday, February 2
6:00 – 8:00 pm Pacific Time
Join Eshel’s own Joshua Avishur for a spirited Queer Kabbalat Shabbat in the valley! Bring your own siddur and ideally a dairy dish to share.
Registration required – address will be sent out at the end of the week.

Reconnect with Color: Nosh & Paint Reunion - Don't Miss the Retreat Vibes!
2024-02-05 19:00 - 22:00
Rediscover the joy of togetherness at our Nosh & Paint Retreat Reunion! Immerse yourself in a colorful evening where art meets our Eshel spirit. Reconnect with old and new friends, enjoy tasty nosh, and create beautiful memories with fellow attendees. If you missed the retreat, here’s your chance to experience the warmth and camaraderie. Join us for an evening of creativity, laughter, and the unique bond that only an Eshel gathering can provide. Let’s paint, nosh, and relive the magic together!
Where: Manhattan JCC 334 Amsterdam Ave at, W 76th St, New York, NY 10023 (Room sent out to registered attendees closer to the event)
When: February 5, 2024 7:00-10:00 pm

Ensuring LGBTQ+ Mental Wellbeing: Thriving in Our Communities
2024-02-07 19:00 - 21:00
Join us for a discussion of this parsha’s overriding theme of society building and its relevance to the LGBTQ+ community and those who care for them.

Navigating Wartime Conversations
2024-02-11 12:30 - 14:00
For parents of teenage and adult LGBTQ+ children:
What do you do when you and your child are not seeing eye to eye on the war in Israel? How do you relate to and communicate with your children who are expressing views that are foreign to you? You are not alone – connect with other parents of LGBTQ+ children trying to navigate disagreement and difficult conversations. Come learn from one of the experts! Featuring Abi Dauber Sterne, co-director of “For the Sake of Argument“.
Abi Dauber Sterne has worked in the United States and in Israel as an educator and organizational leader for more than 20 years. Throughout her career, her focus has been on deepening people’s Jewish experiences, while also promoting a deep pluralism amongst those who live in community together. Through her roles in senior management at two international organizations Hillel International and The Jewish Agency for Israel’s Makom: Israel Education Lab she has relationships that span the globe. She has worked with rabbis, students, educators, and organizational leaders around the world. Abi is a Senior Schusterman Fellow and currently a rabbinical student at the Shalom Hartman Institute/HaMidrasha at Oranim.

This event is free for all. A donation of $18 per person or $36 per couple is encouraged to help support this and other Eshel programs.

Info Session for 2024 Parent Retreat
2024-02-19 20:30 - 21:30
Do you have questions about Eshel’s Parent Retreat? Wondering if its right for you?
Join us for an information session on Monday, February 19 at 8:30 pm ET / 7:30 pm CT to get answers to all your questions! Hear from veteran parents and members of our planning committee about what to expect, learn more about our speakers and sessions, and meet some other parents of LGBTQ+ children.
Sign up below for the details.

Closeted Women's Support Group
2024-02-21 20:00 - 21:30
Third Wednesday Monthly
8:00 pm ET / 7:00 pm CT / 5:00 pm PT
In our community, there are many women who feel vulnerable and that they have much to lose if they come out: a job, housing, children, or family. This group is here to provide mutual support and unconditional love no matter where your journey is leading you. This support group is a non-judgmental space – there is no pressure to change your situation unless you want to.
This group might be for you if you:

Are a woman in the closet
Are married or divorced
Have children
Are afraid of what you might lose if you come out

This is a confidential group. Respect for each others’ desire to remain confidential or anonymous is of the utmost importance.

Sign up for our weekly newsletter

Israel Parent Meetup
2024-02-22 12:30 - 14:00
Thursday, February 22 at 7:30 pm
Join Eshel’s local chapter in Israel for parents of LGBTQ+ children. Miryam Kabakov joins us this month!
This group will provide support and build community in an intimate, confidential setting in English. Register below for monthly reminders, links, and location details.

Sign up for our other newsletters

New York City Meetup
2024-03-04 19:30 - 21:30
Join Eshel for a New York City meetup every month! Connect in person with other Orthodox LGBTQ+ people, make new friends, and try something new. Check back for specific details and to RSVP for upcoming events.
Join us this month for an evening of celebration and delicious food at our Eshel Trivia Night! Get ready to put your knowledge to the test as we delve into all things Purim, Jewish and queer! Plus, enjoy pizza and snacks to fuel your brainpower as you compete! Whether you’re a trivia pro, an enthusiast, or just looking to have a blast with friends, this event is for you! Bring your team, brush up on your trivia, and prepare for a night filled with laughter, friendly competition, and maybe even a few surprises along the way. Don’t miss out on the fun – reserve your spot now and let the festivities begin!

Baltimore/DC Hamantaschen Baking
2024-03-06 19:00 - 21:00
Get together with our Baltimore/DC Eshel family to bake hamantashen in advance of Purim! Join us in this intimate, confidential setting to meet other frum LGBTQ+ people and parents.
WHEN: Wednesday, March 6 at 7:00 pm
WHERE: For notifications and sign-in information, please register below, if you haven’t already. (You only need to register for this group one time.)

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Baltimore: Rosh Chodesh/Women's Day Celebration
2024-03-10 10:00 - 12:00
WHEN: Sunday, March 10 at 10:00 am
WHERE: Register for location info
WHAT: Celebrate International Women’s Day and Rosh Chodesh Adar II with Eshel Baltimore/DC! Join us for some Torah, light dessert, and help us pack gift bags that we will donate to tzedaka. Open to women only. Register below for location details!
Thank you to JPride for sponsoring the event!

Meet and Greet with Nili Maderer of Jerusalem Open House
2024-03-27 19:00
Join Eshel for a Meet and Greet with the new Executive Director of Jerusalem Open House, Nili Maderer! Jerusalem Open House, founded in 1997, is the only LGBTQ+ community center in Jerusalem. Jerusalem Open House provides community programs, health services, and counseling to the Jerusalem LGBTQ+ community, as well as education and advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion in Israel. Hosted by Eshel board member Shlomo Ashkinazy and Michael Gomillion.

2024 Eshel Parent Retreat
2024-03-28 - 2024-03-31
Learn More and Register

Pre-Pesach Whiskey and Beer Tasting
2024-04-01 19:30 - 21:00
Join Eshel for a pre-Pesach whiskey and beer tasting at the JCC on April 1st! Explore a selection of whiskeys and craft beers while enjoying light refreshments. The cost is just $10 per person, which includes drinks and nosh. Don’t miss this opportunity to unwind and socialize with friends before the pre-Pesach rush begins. Reserve your spot today!

20s and 30s Game Night
2024-04-15 19:00 - 21:00
DATE: Monday, April 15
TIME: 7:00 – 9:00 pm
LOCATION: Times Square; Register for address
Join us for an evening of fun and games at Eshel and JQY’s 20’s and 30’s Queer Boardgame Night! Grab your friends and come enjoy a relaxed atmosphere filled with laughter and friendly competition. Whether you’re a seasoned boardgame enthusiast or just looking for a casual night out, all are welcome to join in the fun. Connect with fellow LGBTQ+ individuals in a welcoming and inclusive environment while bonding over your favorite boardgames. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make new friends and create lasting memories with Eshel and JQY!

Sign Up!

South Florida LGBTQ+ & Parents Meetup
2024-04-15 20:00 - 21:30
What: Meet other LGBTQ+ individuals in the area of Miami, Florida! Family members and relatives of LGBTQ+ folks are also welcome to join! Our coordinators speak Spanish and French.
When: The third Monday of each month from 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm.
Where: For notifications and sign-in information, please register below. (You only need to register for this group one time.)
For more information or questions, please contact us at southflorida@eshelonline.org.

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Israel Parent Meetup
2024-04-17 12:30 - 13:00
Wednesday, April 177:30 – 8:30 pm Israel TimeZoom
Join Eshel’s local chapter in Israel for parents of LGBTQ+ children.
This group will provide support and build community in an intimate, confidential setting in English. This group meets in person most months, with a Zoom meeting once per quarter.
Register below for monthly reminders, links, and location details.

Sign up for our other newsletters

Orthodox+* People of Trans Experience Support Group
2024-04-18 21:00 - 22:30
Welcome to Eshel’s Meetup!
What: This virtual support group will be a space for people who identify as transgender, non-binary, and gender questioning. All shades of Orthodox including Chareidi, Modern Orthodox, Ex-Orthodox, are welcome to come and share in a safe and confidential virtual group.
When: Meetings will be held on the third Thursday of every month at 9 pm EST – 6 pm PST.
Where: For notifications and sign-in information, please register below. (You only need to register for this group one time.)
This group is confidential: all attendees are required to adhere to the privacy of its members.
About the Group Coordinator
This Eshel Meetup is led by Joshua Avishur, a transgender Orthodox Jew who enjoys connecting with people and embracing the beauty in all individuals. Joshua is a Masters-in-Social-Work student with experience in mentoring LGBTQ+ folk and developing and leading therapy groups for children and individual counseling with at-risk youth. Joshua is also a transgender panel moderator and panelist.

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Parents of Trans & Gender Nonconforming Children Support Group
2024-04-22 21:00 - 22:00
What: This group is for traditional Jewish parents who may be struggling with their child’s gender identity and/or wish to connect with other parents like themselves.

When: Fourth Monday of each month, 9:00 PM EST – 8:00 PM CST – 6:00 PM PST
Where: For notifications and sign-in information, please register below. (You only need to register for this group one time.)
Questions? Email info@eshelonline.org

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