The Aguda The Association for LGBTQ Equality Annual Report 2024

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