CJC is welcoming of everyone of all sexual orientations and gender identities and expression (“SOGIE”).
We are a community that includes those who identify as transgender, bisexual, lesbian, gay, queer, questioning, straight, and allies. Each of us and our congregation benefits from embracing our diversity. By honoring each of our unique contributions we are creating a culture of tikkun olam (repairing the world), and a safe, welcoming place to celebrate our joys and support each other in times of need.
CJC is creating a safe, inclusive environment for individuals and families who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender to participate in religious services, Torah study, religious school programs, social action projects, and other community activities. We are inspired by the teaching of Torah, chesed (loving kindness), rachamim (compassion), and tzedik (justice). Learn more about the LGBTQ Safe Zone.
A great local resource, is Coast Pride. “CoastPride offers a safe space online and at community events to gather the diversity of our voices, raise awareness of LGBTQ issues, and address the needs of our LGBTQ youth, families, and adults. We work with existing local civic, governmental, for-profit and nonprofit organizations to enhance services so that they are inclusive of all who play, work, and live on the coastside.”
Welcoming Synagogue Project Committee
CJC is also an active member of the Bay Area Coalition of Welcoming Congregations. We completed a year long Welcoming Synagogue Project Pilot Study in 2013 aimed at exploring how our community could be more openly welcoming to LGBT community members, interfaith families and all types of diversity within CJC. The WSP committee still meets quarterly to continue this initiative.
