Congregation Beth Simchat Torah (CBST) has informally welcomed transgender members of the community since its founding in 1973. As the transgender community became larger and more visible, CBST acknowledged this important part of our congregation by expanding our mission to explicitly welcome transgender Jews. Transgender members participate in all aspects of synagogue life, and have sung in the chorus, celebrated their adult b'nei-mitzvah and other private and public occasions, taught classes and served on various committees.

 

In 2004, CBST welcomed the first openly transgender rabbinical student, Reuben Zellman, as our Children's Educator.  In 2005, he became one of the synagogue's Cooperberg-Rittmaster Rabbinical Interns.

 

CBST has been increasing our programming focused on transgender issues. A very successful panel discussion and exhibit titled God created them male and female [and every combination in between]: Gender Identity, Intersexuality, and Transsexuality was held in April 2005. Building on the success of that event, in 2006 CBST sponsored several courses and programs. A class was held on Gender, Transgender and Intersex People: What Jewish Texts Have to Say, and the Gender of Gay: Transgender Inclusion in US Gay Identity and Politics. There was more opportunity to discuss transgender issues at CBST's schmooze on the movie "Transamerica," an informal gathering after services to talk about the movie and the issues it raises. A CBST member who was one of the actors from that movie joined us to share his impressions.

 

The synagogue continues to develop as a place where people of all sexual orientations and gender identities can explore and celebrate their Judaism. One of the first changes in 2005 was the adoption of a gender-neutral bathroom policy so that we have a gender-neutral bathroom at all CBST events. We annually mark the Transgender Day of Remembrance at a service in late November, and continue to develop trans-specific and inclusive ritual and liturgy. In addition, CBST is currently reviewing the synagogue's publications and website to make sure gender-inclusive language is used in all our literature.

Return to Transgender Community Life at CBST