The Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center (Levis JCC) and Keshet, a national Jewish organization dedicated to promoting the full equality of LGBTQ+ Jews and their families, bring back the South Palm Beach County Community Pride Shabbat for its second consecutive year this March 1 at 5:30 p.m. at the Levis JCC.
Open for people of all ages, the event invites everyone to join in an uplifting, pluralistic Shabbat service led by the clergy of Congregation B’nai Israel of Boca Raton, accompanied by music, readings, light refreshments and the chance to mingle in celebration of the local Jewish community’s diversity.
“Pride Shabbat is an opportunity for the entire community to come together and support the LGBTQ+ community,” says Levis JCC Chief Programming Officer Nancy Carroll. “The Levis JCC is committed to being the widest open for our community. We prioritize inclusivity and take great pride in being warm and welcoming for everyone.”
Although most participants are adults, this year’s program, which expects an attendance of 225 people, includes a unique opportunity for teens to gather and connect in a supportive and fun environment from 5-5:30 p.m., prior to the start of the evening service.
“As mentioned, inclusivity is a crucial part of the Levis JCC’s overall mission. This event brings the community together as one in support of the LGBTQ+ community. It is also a way for Jews who identify as LGBTQ+ to feel connected to our Jewish community in a meaningful and spiritual way,” says Carroll, 55.
Carroll highlights the collaborative effort with Keshet in planning the event, which involved providing Levis JCC with adequate training and resources to create inclusive programs for the community. According to its website, Keshet’s mission is to equip Jewish organizations nationwide with the skills and knowledge needed to make all LGBTQ+ Jews welcome, as well as create spaces in which all queer Jewish youth feel seen and valued.
“As a Jewish community, now more than ever, it is essential that we work collaboratively to continue to be an open door, a place that is inviting and welcoming to all,” says Carroll. That is the role of our Levis JCC, and it is also our responsibility as a caring Jewish community. We are honored to play a part in making this a reality.”
The Levis JCC is located at 21050 95th Ave. S., Boca Raton.
For more information, visit levisjcc.org.