This past week, a group of Israelis and Americans were forced out of the largest conference concerning LGBTQ rights. With thousands of people in attendance, this meeting was set to host a groundbreaking number of groups and organizations. One of these groups is A Wider Bridge. This organization was built with the intention to form a connection between the American and Israeli LGBTQ Jewish population. On Sunday, the leader of A Wider Bridge, Alex Slepian received a very interesting phone call from Sue Hyde, the director of this conference. She told Slepian that having his group there is a security threat to them. She claimed that threats had been sent out against A Wider Bridge.
After this awkward confrontation, A Wider Bridge did not make an appearance at the conference, but went on to investigate the source of these so called "threats". After some digging, it was uncovered that these allegations were made up in order to keep this group from attending. Just days before this occurred, cyberbullies were stalking the web accusing A Wider Bridge of "pink washing" and continuing their consistent opposition towards the organization. Thankfully, as a much needed break from all the hate, a petition on change.org was organized as a formal apology to the victimized group. Reporters and newspapers from all over are offering their support and continue to put in a good word for A Wider Bridge. After the whole mess, A Wider Bridge decided to step up, stand for what they believe in, and move their reception to a hotel down the street, separate from the conference.
I really like your description of what went down but actually they were re-allowed to host their reception but another group stormed the reception right after they finished a shabbat service. These protesters rushed in shouting about Pink Washing and how the event needed to be disrupted due to their opinions on the group. I still strongly feel that it was unnecessary due to the fact that A Wider Bridge is separate from the Israeli government, who are the ones creating the poor image. A Wider Bridge is a great organization meant to connect LGBTQ Jews.
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