The Jewish Federations of North America are appalled by the ILGA (International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association) World’s decision on Wednesday to suspend the membership of The Aguda, The Association for LGBTQ+ Equality in Israel. At a time when LGBTQ+ Jews are feeling more isolated than ever, these actions send the message that LGBTQ+ Jews are unwelcome in mainstream LGBTQ+ organizations, and in particular, that the Israeli LGBTQ+ community does not matter.  

We stand fervently in support of The Aguda, which has worked tirelessly to foster LGBTQ+ inclusion in Israeli society since its founding in 1975, championing legislative change, providing assistance to refugees, and serving as a leading voice for LGBTQ+ rights in the Middle East. We support the numerous LGBTQ+ organizations that are continuing to work to support all LGBTQ+ people living in Israel, even as LGBTQ+ organizations on the global stage have turned their backs or remained silent in the face of the horrific attacks on October 7th, 2023, and the avalanche of antisemitism that has ensued on a global scale.  

The Jewish Federations strongly encourage the ILGA to retract their decision to suspend the Aguda. It should model dialogue across difference instead of cancelling without question. Suspending The Aguda’s membership only serves to strengthen political polarization and harms us all, regardless of our sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, or nationality.