Online Lecture Explores the Intersection of Judaism and LGBTQ+ Identity

Project Kesher Israel hosted an online lecture with Hebrew educator, scholar, and LGBTQ+ activist Nadya Aizner, a Ph.D. candidate in Hebrew Literature at Ben-Gurion University, exploring what it means to be both religious and LGBTQ+ in Israel. Bringing together participants from both PKI's women's and LGBTQ+ programs, the event encouraged dialogue across communities while reflecting the organization's commitment to pluralistic Judaism and inclusion.

Drawing on her academic research and personal journey, Aizner shared her experience of growing up in a religious environment, coming out, and embracing both her queer and religious identities. As a member of Bat Kol, Israel's organization for religious LGBTQ+ women, she also highlighted the evolving place of LGBTQ+ people within Israeli religious society over the past three decades.

For many participants, the lecture offered a new perspective on the relationship between Judaism and LGBTQ+ inclusion, challenging common assumptions and broadening their understanding of Israel's diverse religious landscape. The discussion reinforced Project Kesher Israel's vision of a Jewish community where learning across differences fosters empathy, belonging, and respect for human dignity.