New transgender policy from nation’s largest Jewish denomination “truly historic”

WASHINGTON, DC, November 6, 2015 — Yesterday, the Union for Reform Judaism voted overwhelmingly to embrace transgender people and to campaign against LGBTQ discrimination.

“The decision by the Union for Reform Judaism — the nation’s largest Jewish denomination — to embrace, welcome and affirm transgender people is truly historic as is their commitment to fight LGBTQ discrimination. This is strong leadership by example showing so vividly that we can shift the phony narrative that people of faith aren’t supportive of LGBTQ people and that LGTBQ people aren’t people of faith. The decision not only says the right words but lays out concrete steps to be taken by synagogues and congregations to ensure that there is education, training and facilities that respond to the needs and aspirations of transgender Jews. What makes this action all the more important is its emphasis on taking that welcome outside of the synagogue walls to campaign against LGBTQ discrimination in the public arena. This is truly faith in action and it is so needed at this time,” said Rev. Rodney McKenzie, Jr., Director of the Academy for Leadership and Action.

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