Frequently Asked Questions

Who runs Dayenu?

Dayenu is run by volunteers. There are no paid staff, as the group runs on a not-for-profit basis.

What does Dayenu mean?

An article wirtten 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. Many 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 our counselling page.

What educational information is delivered?

Dayenu has members that are always willing to speak on Jewish and/or LGBTQ+ issues. Please contact us for more information.

What social activities are there?

The group organises events throughout the year. These include pub nights, movie festivals, ten-pin bowling, trivia, fundraisers, Shabbat dinners (including our popular annual Mardi Gras Shabbat Dinner) and holiday specific events like treetop adventures for Tu BiShvat. Our activities are always a fun way to meet new people and socialise with other likeminded LGBTQ+ Jews. See our events page, subscribe to our newsletter, or add us on Facebook for more information.

How do I become a member?

Anyone is welcome to become a member: whether Jewish or Gentile, LGBTQ+ or straight!

If you check our events page, subscribe to our newsletter, follow our public Facebook page, or join our private 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 all people, including those who support Jewish queer folk. You don't have to be Jewish or Queer to come to our events or participate in our Mardi Gras Float.

Can I help build the Dayenu float?

We usually start building our Mardi Gras float at the end of January or beginning of February and we advertise these dates on our Yahoo and Facebook groups. Float-build evenings are great social events too, so please come along and help out. If you are interested in getting involved, please see how to join our Yahoo or Facebook group on the contact us page.

I want to march with Dayenu in the Mardi Gras Parade. How do I register?

Please email info@dayenu.org.au for more information and to register. There will be a charge to march with Dayenu. See Mardi Gras event above for details.

I'm not out of the closet. Can I still participate in Dayenu events?

Many gay and lesbian Dayenu members have not come out to any family or friends (see our coming out page). Many of our events are private and GLBT-only and are held in members' homes, so you're not going to out yourself by coming along. Other events, such as our annual Mardi Gras Shabbat Dinner, are held on private property and are attended primarily by Dayenu members and Emanuel Synagogue members, so again you're in a safe environment. However, the Mardi Gras Parade is obviously much more public, with both local and international media coverage.

If you have any concerns about privacy, please contact us. More importantly, if you have any issues concerning your sexuality, please contact our counselling service. There's nothing worse than feeling like your alone. We want to help.

What should I wear for the Parade?

This varies from year to year. Sometimes we dress up and sometimes we all wear our Dayenu t-shirts. We do not encourage a sleazy look, but fully accept the desire of some members to accessorise. Please email us top register and if you have any concerns or questions.

Are any activities planned as a group after the Parade?

The Mardi Gras Party takes place right after the Parade. More information can be found on the Mardi Gras website here. For more information about other events, sign up to our Facebook or Yahoo group. See our Contact Us page for more details.

I represent a media organisation. Can I get access to the float during the parade?

The Mardi Gras organisation does not allow unauthorised media inside the parade route barriers. To apply for a media pass, contact Mardi Gras and also advise us.
25th World Congress Jewish LGBT+ Conference

First Religious Same-Sex Wedding

On May 2nd, Ilan Buchman and Oscar Shub were married by Rabbi Jeffrey B. Kamins in the beautiful new sanctuary of Emanuel Synagogue.

History was made at Sydney’s Emanuel Synagogue on Wednesday, with the first religious Jewish same-sex marriage held in Australia. The happy couple were Oscar Shub and Ilan Buchman.

Rainbow Talit

Synagogues

Dayenu provides the following general information on Synagogues attended by our members in the Sydney area for information only.