A Safe Space

Group Meetings

Every day of their lives, LGBTQ youth in Jerusalem are at risk for exclusion, harassment, bullying,

and even violence due to widespread societal discrimination. In a culture where “homo” is a typical

insult in the playground and on the street, LGBTQ youth often feel extremely isolated. Struggling

to make sense of their feelings at this formative period in their lives, many dare not entertain the

idea of exploring their “different” gender and sexuality identities and beginning to come out of the

closet. Without caring support and understanding leadership, these young people will inevitably

encounter many barriers to healthy development.

The JOH is the only organization in the city which seeks to combat this issue by offering

LGBTQ youth a safe space and support framework in which to address their sexual and gender

identities. Led by professional youth counselors, the groups discuss a variety of relevant topics

in an organized format, from family issues to identity development. These meetings also provide

opportunities for members to speak to personal counselors and mingle and get to know each other

during the “Open Space.”

The Safe Space for Youth Project meets every Wednesday (for youth ages 15-18) and Thursday (for

young adults ages 18-23).

Leadership Training

In addition to acting as a support system for LGBTQ youth in Jerusalem, the JOH also strives

to provide them with the skills and training necessary for them to become future leaders of the

community. This past summer, a leadership delegation from the JOH traveled to Germany to

discuss social change and Israeli-German relations with a group of German youth. We plan to

continue this project with a full leadership training course, as well as implementing a separate

initiative focusing on participatory democracy.

Motze'ei Shabentz

This program provides a bridge for participants from both the adolescent and young adult groups to

come together for joint activities. Motze'ei Shabentz's meetings are less structured than those of the

youth groups, providing members with a sense of community and an outlet to seek help while they

enjoy a space that is not only safe, but also more tailored to their needs.

Hore B'Cafe

“Hore B'Cafe,” or “Parent in the Coffee,” provides LGBTQ youth with an opportunity to chat and

drink coffee with a member of Tehila, the Israeli equivalent of PFLAG. It is an excellent resource

for young people who want to speak to a parental figure about what they are going through, but do

not feel as though they can share their experiences with their own parents.

Under the Radar

We realize that issues of sexuality and gender orientation arise in people younger than 15, the

minimum age to join our adolescent youth group. Because of this issue, we are introducing “Under

the Radar,” a space for those under the age of 15. Rather than being a support group or social

service, Under the Radar meetings are more personalized sessions with social work students.

Over the Border

Over the Border is a group for those who have reached the end of our Under the Radar program,

but who still desire the warmth and comfort of the group. Its format is similar to that of Under the

Radar, with social work students providing personalized support and advice to members.