The Aguda he Association for LGBTQ Equality Annual Report 2023

Then came the poignant pivot on October 7, when the protests ceased, eclipsed by the sad shadow of the Israel-Hamas war. In the backdrop of the protest days, discrimination against the LGBTQ community loomed large. Yet, against the backdrop of war, the realization dawned — a significant number of LGBTQ reservists were thrust onto the front lines and the home front. It became crucial for us to express appreciation and assure them that they were not alone. To this end, we sent packages to approximately 150 reservists and continue sending more. In collaboration with the "Shpagat" bar, we sought to weave threads of solidarity for the release of abductees, standing together under the banner of shared humanity. Between the enthusiasm of protest and the echoes of war, we hosted conferences, forged alliances with LGBTQ establishments, and facilitated the distribution of pride equipment nationwide. Each action carried a poignant undertone—a testament to a community's resilience in the face of adversity, a plea for understanding, empathy, and the hope for a more inclusive future.

The role of the field coordinator materialized in February, concurrent w i t h t h e commencement of the judicial overhaul protests. In those early days, our modest yet resolute group stood shoulder to shoulder each week at the heart of the rally, a beacon of pride. As we gradually forged connections with fellow LGBTQ community

exacted on the LGBTQ community, declaring our unwavering commitment to stand firm and fight for our rights amidst the tumult. As time progressed, we issued a national call, inviting those interested in leading LGBTQ groups in their cities to join forces with us, the Aguda. The response was inspiring. LGBTQ groups blossomed nationwide, echoing the collective message: "We want to be proud in Israel." We supported them with shirts, signs, flags, and stickers. Week after week, they echoed our message in Tel Aviv, Be'er Sheva, Holon, Modi'in, Herzliya, Haifa, and beyond. Simultaneously, we endeavored to inform and unite the community through webinar sessions, rallying them for the cause. With the dismissal of Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant and the initial passage of the reform, our proud bloc, composed of hundreds of volunteers, emerged as a steadfast and engaged force and stood in the hallowed halls of the Israeli Knesset, amplifying our resolute voice.

Amit Shemesh Field Coordinator

organizations like Hoshen and Merima, a collective vision emerged. Together, we defined our objectives, the poignant message we sought to convey on behalf of the LGBTQ community, our appearance, our rallying cries, and more. We sought to expose the unequivocal toll the judicial overhaul

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