Not Going Back

Not going back As the State of Israel faces the most difficult war in its history, and our collective attention is drawn to security concerns and the fate of the hostages, those seeking to harm the LGBTQ+ community have not rested. They have intensified their incitement, spread fake news, called for violence against us, demanded the revocation of funding and resources from the most vulnerable groups within our community, and persistently campaigned to erase the rights we have fought so hard to achieve together. They did not rest, but neither did we. Even during the war, while providing critical support to the most marginalized members of our community—who needed us more than ever—we at The Aguda continued to fight for our rights and to provide life-saving services. We successfully amended the law on bereaved families, prevented the shutdown of crisis helplines for LGBTQ+ individuals in ultra-Orthodox communities, supported asylum seekers and the transgender community, assisted LGBTQ+ reservists, strengthened LGBTQ+ communities across the country, documented anti-LGBTQ+ attacks, and provided aid to victims. We are in the midst of some of the most challenging years in our history, with rising incitement, violence, and organized hatred. As a community, we are facing unprecedented threats to our hard-won achievements and the rights we have been fighting for over the past 50 years. Meanwhile, under the cover of war, the government has attempted to brutally cut LGBTQ+ funding, other financial resources have been diverted to the war effort, and while resources dwindle, the needs of our community continue to grow. Israel is in a prolonged state of emergency, and while we, as a nation, fight for our existence and security, our struggle as a community for equality and safety is far from over. The Aguda has been the LGBTQ+ community’s shield in Israel for 50 years. A pioneering organization built by brave individuals who fought with determination for the values of freedom, equality, security, and human dignity. In times of darkness, they chose to light the way, to reject shame and secrecy, and to stand proudly for their rights. Over these five decades, we have led legislative and policy changes, provided essential support to community members, strengthened LGBTQ+ communities in the periphery, and changed public opinion. From the Trans Center to asylum seeker programs, from legal battles to the LGBTQphobia Reporting Center—the Aguda has always stood strong and resolute. Since its founding, it has been the first address for any LGBTQ+ person in need of help, support, and hope. We are entering a challenging period in which there will be efforts to push us back and erase our achievements. But the thing our adversaries fear most is our unity, the love we represent, and the light we bring to the world. Now is the time to stand shoulder to shoulder, as a community, and declare: We will not step back. We will continue to fight together, and for that, we need your help. Every donation ensures that we can continue to stand for our shared fight for equality and security. Join us. This is not just a donation—it is a partnership in shaping a future where there is room for everyone. Donate now, and together we will face the challenges ahead and build a society we are all proud to be part of.