THE TUCSON J is thrilled to add JPride, a
joint project with the Jewish Federation
of Southern Arizona, to its roster of
innovative, engaging and inclusive
programming.
JPride provides a platform with which
Southern Arizona’s LGBTQ Jews and
their allies can explore issues and ideas
of importance to their community. The
program offers an opportunity to connect
with other LGBTQ Jews; promote Jewish
celebrations; experience dynamic arts and
education programming; and volunteer
with social action projects that benefit greater Tucson.
JPride
JPride, then known as the LGBT Inclusion Project, began in 2005
when the Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona became one of
the first federations in the country to actively reach out to lesbian,
gay, bisexual and transgender members of the Jewish community.
Initially, the project aimed to help synagogues and Jewish communal
organizations create more welcoming spaces for LGBTQ Jews. The
focus has since shifted to creating social events for the LGBT Jewish
community and presenting educational programming that engages
the community at large.
In recent years, JPride has partnered with local agencies to bring
Dr. Joy Ladin, the first openly transgender professor at an Orthodox
institution (Yeshiva University); Masha Gessen, award-winning
journalist; and Michael Kagan, J.D., former director of a refugee
rights clinic at the University of Tel Aviv Law School.
Todd Rockoff, President and CEO of the Tucson J says, “The J is
honored to include JPride in the mosaic of programs and services that
we offer to the community. We look forward to a great relationship.”
Ann Markewitz, Chair of the JPride Steering Committee says, “The
JPride steering committee is excited about working under the wing
of the Tucson Jewish Community Center. Our collaboration will open
new opportunities to serve the LGBTQ community, friends and allies
throughout Southern Arizona.”
Lynn Davis, the J’s director of Arts & Culture, welcomes this new
addition to her department and notes that the timing couldn’t be
better. The JCC Association has recently formalized a nationwide
alliance with Keshet, an organization that works for full LGBTQ
equality and inclusion in Jewish life. Keshet offers inclusion training,
action planning and year-long coaching through their Leadership
Project, as well as leadership development for LGBTQ teens and
allies to implement in JCC teen programs and camps. These efforts
support JCCs across the country in developing programming,
facilities and policies that are more inclusive to LGBTQ families and
individuals.
“JCCs are inclusive environments with broad reach in their
communities,” said Joy Brand-Richardson, JCC Association vice
president and director of training and professional development.
“We can truly model b’tzelem elohim, that we are all created in God’s
image, through the work we do welcoming the LGBTQ community.”
For more information, please contact Lynn Davis at (520) 299-3000,
x106 or at [email protected].
Upcoming events in the
Tucson J Fine Art Gallery
Discoveries Unfinished – Work by
Christine Zabrammy, with Peaceful
Delight – Paintings by Betty Seery
September 9 – October 11
“Whimsical,” “mystical, “mythical,”
“enchanting….” Tucson artists
Christine Zabramny and Betty Seery.
Artist’s reception Sunday,
September 11, 2-4 pm
FREE
A Palette of Fiber Arts
October 14 – November 20
Come view the
eclectic work of the
Tucson Handweavers
and Spinners Guild.
Work on display
include tapestry,
soft sculpture,
wearables and
household items.
Artists’ reception and Fiber Arts Gala
and Fashion Show, October 29. Tickets
are required. visit www.thsg.org
Parts Make the Whole: A Journey
Through the Aleph Bet - Work by
LynnRae Lowe
November 23 – December 27
Mixed media artist
LynnRae Lowe has
embarked on an
exploration of the
aleph bet through the
works of 20th Century
Jewish masters of
abstract expressionism.
Brown Bag Lunch and Artist’s Talk,
Wednesday, November 30, 11:30 – 1 pm
Artist's reception Sunday, December 4, 2-4 pm.
Plus: "Experiencing the Mystical Aleph Bet
Through Art” with Artist Lynn Rae Lowe
Wednesdays, December 7, 14, & 21 from 1-3 pm
FREE
8 October 2016 | J Life Magazine