Temple Emanu-El honors Pride Month

Temple Emanu-El will be hosting its eighth annual Pride Shabbat on June 28 at 7:30 p.m., celebrating inclusivity and solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.

“Various denominations of different religions have been very antagonistic to the LGBTQ+ community. Our synagogue firmly believes that our understanding of Judaism is meant to be inclusive of all people regardless of sexual orientation,” Rabbi Jack Zanerhaft said. “This year’s theme, ‘We Pray with Pride,’ aims to send a powerful message of support amid what feels like renewed attacks on the LGBTQ+ community.

By holding a worship service that incorporated this theme, Temple Emanu-El demonstrated that within their sacred space in Long Beach, “no matter who you love, you are welcomed, you are wanted and respected,” Zanerhaft said. “The synagogue emphasized that each person is “created in God’s image” and embodies a spark of divinity.

“Every individual ought to have a place where he, she, them, or they could assemble, come to a program, event, class, or a service and feel comfortable and secure,” Zanerhaft continued. “Temple Emanu-El’s doors and hearts are open to everyone, whether it’s for a holiday, a special occasion, or a place to be consoled.”

Each year, the temple acknowledges Pride Month with a service and a guest speaker. Previous keynote guests have included the Executive Director of the LGBTQ Network of Long Island, a gay pastor who was once a Catholic priest, a Broadway choreographer, and a federal prosecutor in charge of discrimination cases.

Previous keynote guests have included a diverse group of members of the LGBT community. Among them is the Executive Director of the LGBTQ Network of Long Island, who has been a strong advocate for LGBTQ rights.

Another guest was a gay pastor who previously served as a Catholic priest, offering unique insights into faith and sexuality.

A renowned Broadway choreographer shared their creative journey and the importance of representation in the arts.

Additionally, a federal prosecutor specializing in discrimination cases provided an expert perspective on legal protections and challenges faced by the LGBTQ community. These speakers, along with others, have enriched the Pride Shabbat with their varied experiences and profound contributions to the cause of equality and acceptance.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Annmarie Bernagozzi, an NYPD Detective assigned to the Hate Crimes Unit, who lives with her wife in Long Beach.

The event concludes with a dessert reception, where attendees gathered to celebrate and reflect on the importance of inclusivity and acceptance within the community.