Alienated Jews: What about Outreach to Jewish Lesbians?

Publication Date: June 1999

Publisher: Jewish Communal Service Association of North America

Author(s): Danita Mushkat

Research Area: Culture and religion

Keywords: Jewish Identification; Sexual Orientation; Tolerance

Type: Report

Coverage: United States Canada

Abstract:

The terms "Jewish continuity" and "out-reach" appear extensively in Jewish communal policies and debates over the health of North American Jewry. However, the meanings of these terms and their translation into practice are not clear. In particular, there is debate concerning (I) what constitutes Jewish continuity, (2) are Jewish identities eroding or transforming, (3) what are effective outreach strategies, and (4) which "alienated Jews" should be given priority in terms of resources. This article explores the lives of nine such Toronto-based alienated Jews, documenting the unique challenges lesbians face as Jews.

In Journal of Jewish Communal Service, v.75 no.4, Summer 1999.