In this week’s parsha, Re’eh, we’re commanded: “v’samachta b’chagecha” – you shall rejoice in your holidays.

But the mitzvah of joy isn’t just about an individual feeling good. It’s communal. The Torah lists everyone who should be included in that joy: you, your children, your neighbors, the stranger, the orphan, and the widow. In other words, real joy is expansive. It grows when everyone belongs.

Queer joy is built on the same truth. It isn’t only about celebrating ourselves, it’s about celebrating each other. It’s the profound happiness of living authentically, of being seen and accepted, of knowing our differences don’t divide us, they strengthen us.

This Shabbat, let’s lean into that mitzvah. Let’s keep uplifting one another, celebrating the beauty of who we are, and finding joy in creating community together. 🌈✡️