Based in Sydney, Australia, Dayenu exists to meet the needs of Jewish gays,
lesbians, bi-sexuals, trans and intersex people as well as their friends, families,
partners and other supporters. We provide outreach through education,
information, resources, social activities and other events. Email
info@dayenu.org.au for more information
on any event.
History
Dayenu was conceived in 1999 as a co-operation between the local lesbian and
gay Jewish groups to enter a combined float in the 2000 Sydney Gay &
Lesbian Mardi Gras. Shortly after the parade, the group formalised and agreed
to operate in order to:
Provide outreach and support;
Deliver educational information and public representation; and,
Organise social activities for Jewish Gays & Lesbians and their
partners, friends and family.
Who runs Dayenu?
Dayenu is run by volunteers. There is no paid staff, as the group runs on a
not-for-profit basis.
What does Dayenu mean?
An article written by one of our members explains that the Hebrew word
Dayenu is loosely translated as "enough". The word has numerous
applications, but as is written in the article, we use it to capture our
reaction to the ignorance, denial, narrow-mindedness and mistreatment that has
constantly vexed Jewish gays and lesbians and their families.
What outreach and support is provided?
Some Dayenu members are trained counsellors and psychologists. All Dayenu
members have experienced the pain of the struggle of coming out. We understand
the unique challenges that being Jewish causes in this process. Complete
confidentiality is provided. If you would like to contact one of our counsellors, please see your counselling page.
What educational information is delivered?
Dayenu has members that are always willing to speak on Jewish, lesbian or
gay issues. Please contact us for more
information.
What social activities are there?
The group organises events periodically. These range from pub nights, movie
nights, going out for meals, ten-pin bowling, Shabbat dinners (including our
huge annual Mardi Gras Shabbat Dinner), a Seder night during Pesach, etc.). Our
activities are always a lot of fun. See our events page for
more information.
How do I become a member?
Anyone is welcome to become a member: whether Jewish or Gentile, lesbian,
gay, bi-sexual, trans-gender, even straight! If you subscribe to our
email list or befriend our Facebook group, you will be informed of our social
activities.
My partner and friends aren't Jewish - can we join?
Yes. Dayenu is very much about people who support Jewish Gays and Lesbians.
You don't have to be Jewish to come to our events or participate in our Mardi
Gras Float.
