When I began working for Eshel in June one year ago, one of my first questions was “why are there no rainbows in our logo? Aren’t we proud?” I learned quickly that Eshel’s theory of change is not about just declaring our queer identity – it is about being part of our Jewish community, not as outsiders who need to be included, but as integral members. We are not trying to stand out with colorful flags all the time; rather, we are interwoven into the fabric of the Jewish community.
Coming to work at Eshel helped me find my way back to the Orthodox community. When I was younger, I distanced myself after experiencing homophobia, rejection, and isolation. But after spending time in queer spaces, away from the Jewish community, I was still missing the meaning and connection to my Yiddishkeit that the Orthodox community had provided. But through Eshel, through building queer frum connections, I have found my way home. Today, I feel more whole, and more complete than I did one year ago, by being part of traditional and Orthodox communities instead of isolating myself because I felt different.
This is why at Eshel, Pride means belonging. Belonging to a marching contingent of over 24 Jewish community organizations and institutions. Belonging to our LGBTQ+ spaces and belonging in our Jewish and Orthodox spaces.
The original rainbow stripes of Gilbert Baker’s rainbow flag, created in 1978, include representations of life, healing, sunlight, nature, art, serenity, and spirit. Baker grew up in a religious home, and these values, especially spirit, neshama, are quite aligned with religious values. While the rainbows of Pride are often viewed as a religious affront, sometimes read as spitting in the face of Hashem’s rainbow, perhaps that very interpretation can be looked at differently. In showing us the rainbow, Hashem promises that there will be no more floods no matter what we do, as a recognition that we all belong in Hashem’s world. Instead of being destructive out of anger, Hashem recognizes the flaws of humanity and displays this covenant to remind us we belong here.
LGBTQ+ Jews are grateful for Hashem’s rainbow, promise of a world of belonging, and proud to belong to our communities. I will celebrate Pride this year with a yarmulke on my head and a rainbow on my back as I have almost always done, only now it won’t be to prove that I am different. This year, it will be because I am embracing both of my identities fully. This year, thanks to Eshel, I know I belong.
Join Eshel’s Belonging Campaign
Ely Winkler
Director of Advancement