The Aguda The Association for LGBTQ Equality Annual Report 2024

Annual Report 2024 lgbt.org.il | aguda@ lgbt.org.il

K

%

Studio OMG

1

Message from the Chairperson

As we close one of the most challenging years in our history, we reflect on a year marked by war, pain, and crises that shook our lives and the foundations on which we stand. For the LGBTQ+ community, these challenges were threefold—navigating life as Israelis in a precarious security situation, as Jews facing a surge in global antisemitism, and as LGBTQ+ individuals fighting for equality, safety, and dignity within a society torn by internal divisions. In the face of these adversities, we did not waver. Guided by our unwavering commitment to the values of equality, human dignity, freedom, and solidarity, we continued to act with purpose and resolve. These values are the cornerstone of our work, providing a compass to guide our decisions, even in the most trying times. They have enabled us to hold firm to our principles, avoid compromise, and consistently choose the path of integrity. Amid the fog of war, we did not lose sight of the ongoing threat posed by the “judicial reform” initiatives from the past year, which persist in the form of troubling legislative proposals. We remain vigilant and prepared to defend our home while continuing to build and enhance it. As always, we will keep fighting for our rights and working tirelessly to safeguard the social and democratic resilience of all of us. To our dedicated team, incredible volunteers, and generous donors: I extend my deepest gratitude. Your unwavering support has turned challenges into opportunities and pain into hope. Together, we have created a stable anchor, a welcoming space, and a vision that continues to guide us forward. As we enter the new year, we do so with a renewed commitment to drive meaningful change. With deep belief in our collective strength, we will face the challenges ahead and work toward a better reality—one where no one is left behind and all can live with dignity, security, and equality. Thank you for your trust, support, and partnership on this journey. Together, we will continue to bring our vision to life—a vision of a more just and equitable society. Yours, Hila Peer Chairperson, Board of Directors

Hila Peer Chairperson, Board of Directors

2

Message from the CEO

2024 was a challenging year for Israeli society and the LGBTQ+ community in particular. Since taking on my role as CEO of The Aguda last April, I’ve felt privileged and deeply committed to leading the organization through this complex time. From the outset, my focus has been on fortifying the foundations of The Aguda’s diverse and expanding activities. Among our key initiatives is a significant reform in individual services, highlighted by the appointment of a salaried legal department manager for the first time. We’ve also rolled out an advanced information system and made substantial investments to enhance data security, ensuring the privacy of our community members. In the coming months, we will move to a new home—one that will support our growth and make our services even more accessible. Meanwhile, we strengthened collaborations within the LGBTQ+ organizational coalition by working on drafting a new charter regulating its activities and solidifying The Aguda as a leading infrastructure organization within the community. As we enter The Aguda’s 50th anniversary, we proudly reflect on five decades of advocacy for equal rights and social justice. The story of Israel’s LGBTQ+ community is one of courage, perseverance, and triumph, built on a foundation of unity and mutual support. From the intimate gatherings of the early days to the vibrant activism of today, The Aguda has remained a safe space for self-expression, community building, and solidarity. This milestone year, we will launch the Israeli LGBTQ+ archive in partnership with Tel Aviv University to document, preserve, and celebrate the community’s groundbreaking struggles, serving as a living testament to our shared history and an inspiration for future generations. Despite our achievements, our work is far from over. This past year highlighted the urgent need for our resilience as we face rising violence against LGBTQ+ individuals and escalating incitement from public figures, Knesset members, and organizations spreading systematic hate. Looking ahead to the new year, I remain hopeful and determined. The Aguda will continue to be a warm, safe, and inclusive home for all members of the LGBTQ+ community while relentlessly advocating for a more equal, just, and respectful society. Sincerely, Yael Sinai Biblash CEO, The Aguda

Yael Sinai Biblash CEO, The Aguda

3

Progress Through Structural Change

In 2024, The Aguda refined the coordination of its core fields by adopting a new operational model emphasizing collaboration. This transition from separate departments to an integrated structure improved efficiency, enabling better service to Israel’s LGBTQ+ community. The Aguda’s mission centers on three interconnected pillars that collectively advance and support the LGBTQ+ community:

Community Development At the heart of The Aguda’s work is community-building. As an organization uniting Israeli LGBTQ+ groups, it empowers individuals through leadership programs, safe spaces, and grassroots activities. In 2024, significant efforts focused on strengthening social and geographical periphery communities and fostering local LGBTQ+ leadership in municipalities and campuses. Initiatives also expanded the safety net for LGBTQ+ individuals in the Arab community and enhanced services provided by the Trans Center.

Public Affairs The Aguda remains at the forefront of LGBTQ+ advocacy, driving social and legislative change in Israel. Through national campaigns, strategic partnerships, and collaboration with public, governmental, and political entities, The Aguda strives for full equality for the LGBTQ+ community. Leveraging media platforms and social networks, we amplify LGBTQ+ voices, ensuring representation and raising awareness nationwide.

Direct Services

Providing direct support to LGBTQ+ individuals is a cornerstone of The Aguda’s mission. Expanded services include a hotline, legal assistance, and a multilingual reporting center for LGBTQ phobia and hate crimes. The organization also offers psychosocial support, counseling, healthcare, and tailored programs for LGBTQ+ asylum seekers. These efforts are powered by a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers addressing urgent needs while pursuing broader equality.

The organizational changes in 2024 improved the integration of these efforts, ensuring seamless alignment between public advocacy, community development, and direct services. This positions The Aguda to better meet the needs of Israel’s diverse LGBTQ+ community and contribute to a stronger, more inclusive society.

4

Community Support During Wartime

Amid a year of challenges and upheaval, we worked to ensure a sense of security, stability, and connection for the LGBTQ+ community. The Aguda's support services provided meaningful, comprehensive assistance, recognizing the critical importance of community solidarity during crises. Research shows LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges in emergencies due to the combination of war-related trauma and distinct social pressures, necessitating tailored emotional and health responses. To meet these needs, we offered free emotional counseling to dozens of community members through individual and group sessions led by social workers. Dedicated support groups were established for LGBTQ+ Arab community members and reservists, fostering belonging and resilience. Additional groups are planned to help members cope with stress and war-related challenges. Our hotline extended its hours, handling over 2,000 distress calls with an emergency framework during critical times. To manage increased demand, we recruited 27 new volunteers who underwent specialized training to address wartime issues. We also deepened our focus on sensitive topics like domestic violence and suicide prevention. Recognizing a rise in distress and substance use, we partnered with the Israel AIDS Taskforce, LGBTQ+ Healthcare, and the Tel Aviv LGBTQ+ Center to survey substance use patterns. This collaboration led to harm-reduction initiatives, including mental health workshops and a joint campaign with the Israel Center on Addiction to raise awareness and promote well-being. Given the rise in suicides and the urgent need for legal recognition of LGBTQ+ families, we provided accessible information through webinars and digital platforms. Our relaunched legal aid department, now staffed by a dedicated attorney, offers in-house discrimination and family formalization services, including cohabitation agreements, parenting agreements, adoption orders, and more. Despite the challenges, we remain committed to supporting every individual, providing tools for resilience, and fostering community strength. Together, we will navigate these times and emerge stronger.

"The group was a place of anchoring and release for me – a comforting hand when everything outside was in turmoil."

41 % 21 % 30 % 27 %

42 %

Show increased interest in drugs since October 7 50 %

Are using drugs they had not tried before

Started using in new situations

Feel a loss of control over their use

Increased drug use since the war began

Worried more about their friends than before

* An online survey conducted in May 2024 by The Aguda, the Israel AIDS Taskforce, LGBTQ+ Healthcare, and the Tel Aviv LGBTQ+ Center with 965 participants nationwide.

5

Advancing Policy and Protecting the LGBTQ+ Community Achieving Equality Through Legislation

Over the past year, attempts to harm the LGBTQ+ community have intensified, with new challenges emerging in the wake of October 7. Despite difficulties in promoting policies beneficial to the community, we identified opportunities and worked to promote equality and ensure a safe environment for all members of the LGBTQ+ community. One of the most significant victories was the Fallen Soldiers' Families Law amendment to include same-sex couples. This change gained attention following the tragic loss of Maj. Sagi Golan in the battle for Kibbutz Be'eri and the subsequent discrimination his partner Omer faced from the Ministry of Defense. This milestone later supported Edi Levi, the widower of Adir Kadosh, in eerily similar circumstances—just days before their planned wedding. These stories fuel our ongoing fight for equal rights. At the same time, we actively opposed legislative initiatives that threatened the community. We successfully defended LGBTQ+ support hotlines by opposing the "Kosher Phone Law," which threatened to censor "undesirable" content for the ultra-Orthodox sector, cutting off access to vital mental health and emergency resources. Our advocacy ensured the law’s text was revised to prevent future blocking of LGBTQ+ support hotlines and established an effective oversight mechanism. We also preserved surrogacy accessibility by blocking attempts to repeal regulations allowing the import of fertilized eggs, a crucial option primarily for men pursuing surrogacy while also benefiting surrogates. Another critical action was our intervention to prevent the appointment of the Minister of Communications’ proposed Director General, who self-identified as a "proud homophobe" and actively worked against LGBTQ+ rights. We appealed to the Advisory Committee on Senior Appointments, opposing the nomination, which later disqualified his candidacy, blocking a dangerous appointment within the public sector.

Currently, we are fighting cuts to LGBTQ+ funding within the Ministry for Social Equality, which funds essential programs for reducing disparities, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals in Israel’s geographic and social peripheries. In the coming year, we will continue advancing the "LGBTQ Equality Legislative Package," legislative initiatives aimed at securing equal rights in family matters, protection from discrimination and incitement, and full equality for all members of the LGBTQ+ community in Israel.

LGBTQ Equality Legislative Package

6

Fighting LGBTQ+ Phobia in Israel

The escalation of conflict over the past year has profoundly impacted Israeli society, including the LGBTQ+ community. A study conducted early in the war by the Israeli Institute for Gender and LGBTQ Studies at The Aguda revealed that 20% of LGBTQ+ individuals reported experiencing increased discrimination since the conflict began. However, fewer incidents were officially reported compared to last year, likely due to reporting barriers rather than an actual decline in anti-LGBTQ+ incidents. The 2023 LGBTQ-phobia Status Report highlighted a troubling rise in both the severity and frequency of violence against LGBTQ+ individuals, with public space attacks becoming alarmingly routine. The upcoming 2024 report, set for release in early 2025, will provide a more comprehensive overview. Already, incidents of physical and verbal violence, threats, and harm have been documented during our routine work. Reports also indicate discrimination in essential services, such as healthcare – institutions obligated to provide respectful and equitable care but often fall short. Volunteers at the Nir Katz Reporting Center for LGBTQ-phobia provide personal, thorough support to victims, helping them address incidents and work toward prevention. The Aguda collaborates closely with Israeli police representatives to improve the handling of complaints related to LGBTQ+ discrimination. Efforts include educating police about LGBTQ+ needs and rights to ensure respectful and effective interactions. Information on filing complaints, understanding their status, and exercising rights are also made more accessible to the community. Looking ahead, the Reporting Center will expand significantly to meet growing needs. By the first quarter of 2025, we will double the number of volunteers, enhancing support services. A public campaign will raise awareness of the center, reach broader audiences, and issue safety warnings to prevent future harm to the LGBTQ+ community.

2.4x rise in LGBTQ phobic public space incident reports 2.4 1.5

93 %

16 % Rise in reports from trans individuals

Rise in reported LGBTQ-phobic incidents 28 %

LGBTQ-phobia Status Report

1.5x rise in harm reports to cisgender women in public spaces

Rise in severe incident reports, including violence

7

The Ministry for Social Equality and LGBTQ+ Organizations

The Aguda's partnership with the Ministry for Social Equality and the Advancement of the Status of Women has forged meaningful collaboration among LGBTQ+ community organizations, addressed diverse needs, and strengthened the LGBTQ+ community's status in Israel. In its first year, the initiative demonstrated a profound impact and underscored its essential role, setting the stage for lasting change. One of the initiative’s standout achievements has been fostering local leadership and launching groundbreaking projects nationwide. These efforts led to historic milestones, such as the first Pride event in Netivot, the first Mizrahi LGBTQ+ conference, holiday dinners for the Muslim LGBTQ+ community, bonding circles, and anti-stigma campaigns combating discrimination against people living with HIV. Seminars and mentoring programs for young people before and after military service, as well as workshops, conferences, and social events, have cultivated active young leaders and enhanced community belonging. In the area of LGBTQ+ people with disabilities, the initiative made a significant breakthrough by conducting in-depth studies and launching Israel’s first comprehensive quantitative survey on this population, revealing insights into their unique experiences and needs. These findings pave the way for tailored support and increased community empowerment, which would otherwise not be possible without this joint initiative. The initiative has also focused on trans leadership, organizing events with high participation, including family gatherings and life-skills workshops. These efforts aim to create a supportive environment for trans individuals, emphasizing strengthened family and social bonds as foundations for personal resilience. Dozens of training workshops were held for municipal employees, CEOs, welfare professionals, and corporate staff, equipping participants to create safe, inclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and adults. Activities also targeted LGBTQ+ individuals aged 50 and older, offering empowerment workshops, social groups, community meals, and recognition events for volunteers and older community members, highlighting mutual support and intergenerational solidarity. This is just the beginning. The initiative reflects a steadfast commitment to expanding the support network for the LGBTQ+ community and advancing equality in Israel through collaboration between government and social organizations. Highlight events 100 20 250 150 50 Over 50 Pride events Workshops and lectures Trainings

A Joint Initiative

Over 100 meetings of various leadership groups

8

Safeguarding Rights in the Municipal Arena

Despite the challenges posed by the war, the Local Pride Department achieved significant growth and impact this year. Early in the year, ahead of the municipal elections, we launched the Pride Platform, signed by over 150 electoral lists, with 101 winning seats in municipal councils. A broad social media campaign highlighted candidates committed to advancing LGBTQ+ rights, leading to the creation of a new Municipal Pride Forum. This forum convenes bi-monthly, providing professional training for LGBTQ+ council members and allies. During the year, we mapped wartime needs in collaboration with the Israeli Institute for Gender and LGBTQ Studies, identifying specific regional challenges and tailoring precise responses. At the same time with the support of the Ministry for Social Equality, three leadership courses were held in the north, center, and south of Israel, training 60 participants. These efforts spurred local initiatives, including appointing an LGBTQ+ social worker in Kiryat Motzkin, establishing a community leadership forum in Petah Tikva, and organizing community-building activities in Netivot. In May, we hosted a municipal conference with 70 public officials to promote the LGBTQ+ community. We launched the Municipal LGBTQ Equality Index at a special event at the President's Residence, celebrating municipalities’ unwavering dedication despite wartime difficulties. During Pride Month in June, over 20 local pride events were held through a grant program initiated by local activists in non-parade cities. In July, 60 activists attended a national seminar in Givat Haviva, gaining tools to promote LGBTQ+ issues locally, followed by monthly regional forums, where community leaders continue sharing insights and strategies. A leadership program alum initiative supported by the Ministry for Social Equality spearheaded a grants program for local holiday events, resulting in 13 events with over 230 participants. By year’s end, regional conferences in the south and north fostered collaboration among activists, officials, and professionals. These conferences served as an essential forum for advancing local initiatives and driving community growth. This year was marked by expanded activities, impactful local initiatives, and community empowerment. Thus, we continue advancing equality and strengthening the LGBTQ+ presence in every region of the country.

Municipal LGBTQ Equality Index

9

Strengthening the Arab LGBTQ+ Community

The past year brought numerous challenges for the LGBTQ+ community within Arab society, presenting us with a harsh and complex reality. Yet, within this darkness, we found hope, determination, and perseverance. Amidst the war's impact on countless lives, Beit el-Meem, in collaboration with HIAS Israel, provided critical support to over 100 community members through financial aid and food baskets—delivering not only material assistance but also a clear message: we are here for you. Beit el-Meem demonstrated exceptional commitment to mental health this year by creating supportive spaces in Haifa and Tel Aviv, led by the organization’s dedicated social worker. Dozens of participants experienced safety and healing, with overwhelmingly positive feedback reflecting the initiative's profound impact. This effort resulted in a 25% increase in psychosocial treatments, underscoring the organization's vital role during difficult times. A milestone moment occurred in August with Beit el-Meem's first seminar for an experience of inspiration, learning, and connection in Givat Haviva, hosting 50 participants for two days of workshops, deep discussions, and engaging activities. Funded by the Ministry for Social Equality, the event launched exciting new initiatives, reinforcing the sense of community as one united home. Amidst this progress, the community faced a shocking challenge when a prominent journalist publicly called for the murder of Arab LGBTQ+ individuals. Beit el-Meem did not remain silent and responded swiftly and professionally. Hamody Omar, the new director, spoke out on the "Pride Window" podcast and local radio channel 104.5FM, offering a courageous and dignified response. In collaboration with the "Beitna" program, Beit el-Meem produced a powerful video response that gained significant attention and impact. This year, we bid farewell to Orwa Adam, who concluded his tenure as Beit el-Meem’s director after years of dedicated service, leaving behind a legacy of invaluable contributions. In his place, Hamody Omar brings fresh vision, energy, and a spirit of renewal to an organization poised for continued growth and impact. The road ahead may not be easy, but with courage, compassion, and a clear sense of purpose, Beit el-Meem remains steadfast in building a brighter, more hopeful future for the LGBTQ+ community within Arab society.

10

The Trans Center A Year of Growth, Community Resilience, and New Leadership

In 2024, the Trans Center, in collaboration with the Gila Project for Trans Empowerment, continued to champion meaningful initiatives to support and empower Israel's trans community, emphasizing community building, personal empowerment, and promoting equality. Activities included professional workshops, support groups, social gatherings, and individual assistance in legal aid, medical support, and rights advocacy. A core focus this year was fostering community resilience through diverse social events like cultural evenings, film screenings, and tailored gatherings for various subgroups. These initiatives provided safe spaces for connection and dialogue and reduced isolation while strengthening a sense of belonging. This year also brought significant challenges, including leadership transitions, with the center undergoing two managerial changes. Despite the adjustments, the dedicated staff adapted quickly, ensuring continuity of services and projects. In July, Alona Nir, with a background in informal education, community development, and leadership as a Reform rabbi, assumed the role of director. Alona aims to solidify existing services and extend the center’s model to underserved peripheral regions, where trans individuals often face limited access to critical resources. Despite challenges, the center achieved notable milestones, including a threefold increase in assistance requests compared to its inaugural year, highlighting the growing demand for its services. Registration for center activities grew by 70%, with a 30% rise in actual attendance compared to last year. These figures underscore the community's trust and value in the center, highlighting the need for expanded empowerment and support programs. Looking ahead, the Trans Center aims to enhance its services, advance equality, and promote visibility and acceptance for all members of Israel’s trans community.

"When you enter the Trans Center, it’s liberating!" Noam "We need a home, and that's what the Trans Center represents." Moran "The center saved my relationship with my family. It helped my mom and me go through a process, gradually showing her that we are good people and that we are human beings." Luka

Reason for contacting the center

60%

40%

20%

0%

Business expansion 6%

Lack of family support 9%

Volunt eering 11%

Other 17%

Strengthe ning identity 32%

Knowl- edge 33%

Therapy 42%

Social 59%

11

Creating Inclusive Spaces for LGBTQ+ Students

The Achva – the National LGBTQ Students Association, was founded by The Aguda, the National Union of Israeli Students, and Perach – A National Program for Social Impact, to unite LGBTQ+ student groups in higher education institutions across Israel and encourage the establishment of new ones. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this past year, The Achva continued fostering safe spaces for LGBTQ+ students at 30 higher education institutions, focusing on enhancing social engagement and improving rights in academic and social environments. A significant milestone this year was establishing The Achva's academic division, aimed at developing professional tools and integrating academic studies with deeper insights into the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. The Achva runs five professional student forums in medicine, education, therapy, law, and policy, fostering collaboration among students from various institutions while blending academic knowledge with solutions to improve the community's welfare. Unique identity groups were strengthened this year for LGBTQ+ students facing intersectional challenges, such as students with disabilities, Arab students, and trans students. These specialized affinity groups offer support, empowerment opportunities, and advocacy for their unique needs, driving social and academic change. Additionally, the "Kol HaKeshet" Scholarship Program, in partnership with the Ministry for Social Equality, was launched to fund students assisting local LGBTQ+ coordinators in advancing the community at the municipal level. The Achva also established its alum network to connect LGBTQ+ professionals, offering volunteering, collaboration, and networking opportunities while aligning with The Achva’s mission as a national LGBTQ+ student community. Furthermore, partnerships with The Aguda’s Reporting Center were expanded to combat LGBTQ-phobia in academia, advancing academic and social dialogue about the community's needs in Israeli higher education.

Municipal activities in 29 cities Staff members – scholarship students Highlight events 42 76 29 24

LGBTQ+ fellowships and activities in 30 academic institutions across the country

12

The Israeli Institute for Gender and LGBTQ Studies Addressing Challenges and Strengthening Communities "Two months ago, I arrived at a hotel hosting a community event but couldn’t enter because the elevator was out of order. Accessibility solutions existed, but no one knew how to use them—as if no one cared. The subtext was hurtful, diminishing, and conveyed: 'You don’t belong. You’re not important enough.' It shapes both reality and identity." "This intersection is often economic as well. For someone who is trans, has a chronic illness, chronic pain, or a mental health challenge, financial security feels unattainable."

This year, the Israeli Institute for Gender and LGBTQ Studies focused on four key areas impacting LGBTQ lives: international models for collaboration between governments, municipalities, and LGBTQ+ populations; identifying risk factors and vulnerable groups within the LGBTQ+ community; unique employment-related challenges; and exploring the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals facing "dual minority" challenges. Special attention was given to LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities, who navigate complex intersections of multiple stigmas. These overlapping identities create unique barriers, requiring tailored solutions within both the LGBTQ+ community and broader society. To deepen understanding and foster suitable responses, the institute initiated a community-based participatory research project. This included in-depth interviews, focus groups, a national survey, and collaborative activities with LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities. Over four months, participants met weekly under the guidance of institute researchers, emphasizing leadership development, social change, and producing actionable, knowledge-based outcomes. The national survey engaged 500 respondents from the LGBTQ+ community, including 280 individuals with disabilities. This extensive study provided valuable insights into their unique needs and experiences, forming a foundation for targeted solutions. The project produced diverse knowledge outputs to disseminate research findings and influence policies and practices. These include conferences, training sessions, workshops, and research reports, all highlighting the perspectives of LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities. The goal is to drive positive change, strengthen resilience, and promote equality within the community.

Living openly (out of the closet)

Who are the people in your life who support you?

Avoidance of Seeking Treatment Among LGBTQ+ Individuals with Disabilities

9%

I have no support

50%

74%

59%

24%

33%

(spouse/significant other)

Partner

2%

36%

50%

1%

63%

40%

41%

(social worker, assistant, etc.)

Professionals

48%

Friends

Yes – all or most people who know me are aware of my gender/sexual identity

Have you ever avoided seeking treatment related to your LGBTQ+ identity due to concerns about inadequate care regarding your disability?

Have you ever avoided seeking treatment due to fear of LGBTQ-phobia?

Don't know / Not applicable

Partially, barely, or not at all

52%

Family

With disabilities

Without disabilities

Avoided

Didn't avoid

13

Gatekeepers Against Harm to the LGBTQ+ Community

The year 2024 began under the shadow of profound grief following the tragic events of October 7. Amid this turmoil, a historic amendment to the Fallen Soldiers' Families Law was achieved, driven by Omer Ohana, the widower of Maj. Sagi Golan recognized bereaved same-sex partners for the first time. Additionally, a landmark Supreme Court ruling granted same-sex female couples the right to be registered as parents on their children's birth certificates. These pivotal victories were accompanied by achievements in arts, sports, and public representation by LGBTQ+ individuals, serving as a testament to the community’s resilience and progress. This year’s Pride Month carried a different tone. Instead of the usual parades, the focus was on personal and national reflection, highlighting stories of community members who had experienced loss and social and family hardships. The “Israeli Pride Decoration” campaign emphasized the LGBTQ+ community’s contributions to national efforts, using emotional and social connections to raise awareness for equality. However, Pride Month events were met with backlash, including threats, vandalism of flags, and hate graffiti. In response, we worked to strengthen the community’s status in the municipal arena. Our Pride Platform and Municipal LGBTQ Equality Index gained media attention, motivating municipalities to act. We also led a campaign encouraging voting in municipal elections, opposing anti-LGBTQ candidates, promoting LGBTQ+ and women leaders, and celebrated the election of Israel’s first trans city council member. Despite these achievements, there was a sharp rise in LGBTQ phobia, including violence, threats, and incitement—some from Knesset members and public officials. We combated transphobia, the import of extreme ideologies, and false narratives by disseminating accurate information from The Aguda's Reporting Center, sharing personal stories, and launching awareness campaigns to challenge negative perceptions and shift public discourse. A specific campaign targeted anti-LGBTQ remarks by the Police Commissioner, leading to public condemnation and reinforcing police commitment to equality and community protection. With strong social media engagement, the campaign unequivocally rejected hate and ignorance, making it clear that the LGBTQ+ community would not tolerate threats to its fundamental rights by those tasked with safeguarding its security. The "Disgusting the Commissioner" campaign post reached 700 shares and the template was shared 2,000 times. 700 133.5K 418K Pride Platform campaign views Israeli Pride Decoration campaign views

14

Your Support – The Key to Our Success

Reflecting on 2024, a year marked by complex challenges and extraordinary resilience, we are grateful for the steadfast support of our donors, philanthropic partners, and collaborative allies. This year tested us in unforeseen ways, as the war that began on October 7 reshaped our reality and demanded extraordinary efforts to fulfill our mission. The Aguda stands as a beacon for the LGBTQ+ community in Israel, and it is only through the generosity and commitment of our supporters that we can continue to create safe spaces, advocate for rights, and provide essential services to those who need us most. Your contributions enabled us to deliver critical support to community members affected by the war, offer emergency aid, and ensure no one feels alone in these trying times. Despite obstacles, we used this year as an opportunity to enhance our effectiveness and efficiency. By implementing an advanced task management system (Monday), we have streamlined our operations, improved documentation processes, and strengthened our ability to measure the impact of our work. These improvements ensure that every donation is maximized to its fullest potential, amplifying the impact of our mission. As we approach The Aguda’s 50th anniversary in 2025, we are reminded of the extraordinary legacy we are building together. This milestone is a testament to the tireless efforts of our supporters and a call to continue our work with renewed vigor and purpose. This year also saw the publication of a comprehensive study by the Zofnat Institute, highlighting The Aguda’s status as Israel’s first and longest-standing LGBTQ+ organization. The study underscored our pivotal role in advancing initiatives, government relations, and support for vulnerable populations, particularly in peripheral areas. These insights inspire the launch of an upcoming fundraising campaign to spotlight The Aguda’s diverse work and expand our impact nationwide. This is a transformative moment for us to solidify The Aguda as a central and influential force in the lives of the LGBTQ+ community. Thank you for standing with us, believing in our mission, and investing in a society that celebrates diversity, equality, and love. Together, we have proven that even in the darkest moments, there is strength in unity and hope in action. We look forward to celebrating our shared achievements in the year ahead and making an even greater impact on the LGBTQ+ community in Israel. Thank you, Sagi Siani Director of Development 15

Annual Report 2024 lgbt.org.il | aguda@ lgbt.org.il

K

Studio OMG

%

16