Send page to a Friend Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) Rights and Inclusion   LGBT Inclusion Guide Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) Rights and Inclusion Jewish LGBT Inclusion Resources Secular LGBT Resources Advocay Organizations and Action Opportunities   The recent legalization of civil same-sex marriage in Massachusetts, and the repeated efforts to repeal this law, have heightened awareness of lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender (LGBT) issues in the Greater Boston area and the state at large.  While equal rights are essential, legal issues do not define the full extent of LGBT concerns.  There is much work to be done in making our communities safe and affirming places for people of all genders and sexual orientations.  In January of 2004, the JCRC Board passed a statement backing the ruling of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, and supporting civil marriage as a civil right in Massachusetts.  The JCRC also partnered with Keshet in recruiting synagogue members for legislative calls and visits.  Not all congregations are in a position to take action on civil marriage or support religious marriage, but every congregation can still aspire to make its members feel safe and affirmed by their Jewish community. Using the PEAR (Partnership, Education, Action, Reflection) model as a guide, JCRC supports synagogues' work toward LGBT rights and inclusion, both in their congregations and in society at large.