Due to upsurging trends in COVID-19 cases in many states and uncertainty about the future of the pandemic nationwide, we have made the extremely difficult decision to cancel our Shabbatonim through December 2020.

Our Shabbatonim are sacred, empowering spaces for LGBTQ Jewish youth to connect with each other and celebrate their unique, wonderful selves. They are a home. And all LGBTQ Jewish youth deserve for that home to be a safe and healthy space, which is not possible under the current circumstances with the pandemic.

We are keeping a close eye on each state’s case numbers and reopening plans: if regional in-person programming becomes a safe and feasible option this fall, we will create ways to gather!

In the meanwhile, we are launching a variety of initiatives in the same spirit as our Shabbatonim. Check out our Youth page for upcoming programs and events!

Being a teenager is hard. For queer Jewish teens, the social pressures to fit in or the anxieties of standing out may feel even harder — especially in a world where homophobia, transphobia, and anti-Semitism are on the rise. At Keshet’s Shabbat retreats, LGBTQ and ally Jewish teens are able to exhale; to find their place and their voice as emerging Jewish leaders. Together, they build meaningful friendships, engage in deep Jewish learning, and return home to build a world we can all be proud of. Participants pay a subsidized rate of $54 – and need-based scholarships and travel subsidies are also available!

Check out this video about Keshet’s LGBTQ & Ally Teen Shabbatonim!