A poignant gathering of LGBTQ Jews and their allies took place at Adas Israel Congregation in Washington on Tuesday evening, as the Israeli Embassy hosted a Pride event to honor the late Sarah Milgrim. This gathering served not only as a celebration but also as a reflection on the challenges Milgrim faced as an advocate within progressive spaces, despite her commitment to the LGBTQ community.
A Tribute to Sarah Milgrim
The Pride event coincided with the conclusion of Pride celebrations at the end of June and celebrated the life of Milgrim, who played a vital role in fostering connections between the embassy and LGBTQ communities. Tragically, she and her partner, Yaron Lischinsky, were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in May 2025. The evening was marked by heartfelt tributes that honored Milgrim’s dedication and resilience.
Humor and Advocacy Intertwined
Comedian Judy Gold headlined the event, bringing her unique blend of humor and advocacy to the stage. A long-time supporter of LGBTQ rights and an outspoken critic of antisemitism, Gold shared stories highlighting Milgrim’s work. “It takes a very special person to be the LGBT liaison for the Israeli [Embassy], and boy was she special,” Gold remarked, capturing Milgrim’s spirit. In a light-hearted moment, she recounted humorous experiences from two LGBTQ delegation trips to Israel organized by Milgrim, including a time when delegates had to run to bomb shelters during missile attacks—amusingly pointing out how one delegate had different partners each time.
Building Bridges in Hostile Waters
Speaking about Milgrim’s legacy, colleagues Catherine Szkop and Abbie Talmoud reflected on her ability to connect with communities that had become increasingly critical of Israel, especially after Hamas’s attacks on October 7. “She served as the director of civil society and affairs, working tirelessly to engage with those who had expressed anti-Israel sentiments,” Talmoud explained, highlighting Milgrim’s dedication to dialogue in challenging times. Both Szkop and Talmoud conveyed how Milgrim’s work often placed her at odds with the progressive spaces she sought to engage, which became hostile toward her after she joined the Israeli Embassy.
Szkop articulated the struggle Milgrim faced, noting, “She identified with the progressive community on many issues. However, upon starting her role at the Israeli Embassy, the community’s anti-Israel sentiment pushed her away from her friends.” This sentiment echoes a broader issue where individuals may feel compelled to deny aspects of their identities to fit into specific communities.
Embracing Identity and Community
The event was not only a memorial but also a vibrant celebration of inclusion. Pride-themed decorations adorned the venue, including a lectern that displayed the American, Israeli, and Pride flags. As the evening concluded, participants joined in a joyful dance to Omer Adam’s music, waving rainbow LED sticks that illuminated the night—a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, the LGBTQ community stands united in celebration of identity and resilience.
The gathering solidified Milgrim’s legacy, serving as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those advocating for inclusion across different cultural and political landscapes. Events like this not only honor those who fought for acceptance but also strive to create more inclusive spaces for everyone.