In this week’s parsha, Yaakov wrestles with a mysterious figure – some say an angel, some say Hashem – and emerges transformed. His name is changed to Yisrael, meaning one who wrestles (or struggles) with G-d.” And that name becomes our collective identity as Bnei Yisrael.

There are some who say that being queer and Jewish don’t go together, but our name itself proves otherwise. To be Jewish is to wrestle – with questions, with identity, with things that don’t always seem to make sense together. It’s in our very DNA.

Plus, a name change later in life isn’t just part of Jewish history – it’s a celebrated tradition! Our whole nation’s name reflects that. To claim a name that represents your true self is deeply Jewish and is something we honor and lift up.

Wrestling, changing, becoming – it’s all part of who we are. 🌈✡️