Several area synagogues and Jewish organizations commemorated the Transgender Day of Remembrance Nov. 15 with a liturgy and discussion by Rabbi Becky Silverstein, a transgender rabbi based in Pasadena, California.
The observance, which took place at Temple Judea Mizpah in Skokie, opened with a liturgy led by Rabbi Amy Memis-Foler and Judith Golden, cantorial soloist for Congregation Or Chadash. Audience members came forward and lit 22 memorial candles, each commemorating a transgender individual who had been murdered this year.
In his remarks, Silverstein gave what he called a "Trans History 101," then spoke about his own experiences being an out trans person at his Pasadena synagogue, where he works as a musical director. He likened the great importance the trans community places on names and pronouns to Judaism's traditions of Torah study, where words, or even individual letters, can carry great meaning.
"We are a community that spins text," Silverstein said. "This language is important. I can tell you what it did for me was provide me with a sense of relief…. My gender-journey and my Jewish journey have overlapped."
Silverstein talked about reconciling what he said was a radical identity with a job in a synagogue. "With this pull to the center, I've asked, 'Do I get to claim a radical Jewish identity?' But then I remember that the 'center' can use some radicalization too," he explained.
Silverstein's talk and the observance were organized and sponsored by Temple Judea Mizpah, Congregation Or Chadash and Keshet, among other organizations.