To close out Pride Month, Buffalo Jewish Federation is proud to cast another spotlight on a LGBTQ+ voice in our community. Milo Smith (he/they) is a queer, transgender man and a member of Temple Beth Zion. He has been part of Buffalo’s Jewish community since June 2023, when he began his journey of geirut, or conversion to Judaism, which culminated in a mikveh immersion last Elul. He can frequently be found at TBZ praying, singing, or studying.

For Milo, Jewish identity and LGBTQ+ identity are not separate parts of who he is; they are deeply intertwined. His understanding of Judaism is rooted in the belief that every person is created b’tzelem Elohim, in the image of God, and that human beings are active partners in creation.

“Our tradition teaches that each person is made in the image of Hashem,” Milo said. “And we’re not just made in God’s image, we’re also God’s partners in creation.”

That perspective also shapes how he views community. At a time when many LGBTQ+ Jews feel caught between identities, Milo believes Jewish communities have an important role to play in creating spaces of belonging and affirmation.

“The wider LGBTQ+ community has become increasingly hostile to Jews in recent years, especially since October 7,” he said. “Many LGBTQ+ Jews now feel unsafe going to Pride events.” In that environment, he says, support from Jewish institutions matters more than ever.

“When Jewish institutions host Pride Shabbat, provide educational resources, highlight queer Jewish voices, and fly Pride flags, it shows queer Jews that we have a place in this world, that we are loved, and that our contributions are recognized.”

Smith is grateful that Buffalo’s Jewish community has continued to embrace and celebrate LGBTQ+ Jews. Those efforts, he says, send a powerful message that everyone belongs.

For LGBTQ+ Jews looking to build connections and friendships, Smith’s advice is refreshingly simple: show up.

“Schmooze at shul or any community gathering,” he said. “It’s the best way to make new Jewish connections and find out what’s going on in the community.” While there may not always be LGBTQ+-specific events taking place, he notes that queer Jews are active participants throughout Jewish communal life.

Smith also believes Jewish values offer an important model for fostering belonging, emotional safety, and mutual responsibility, principles that resonate far beyond the Jewish community.

He points to the teaching Kol Yisrael arevim zeh bazeh – all Jews are responsible for one another.

“If everyone would take responsibility for their fellow human beings in a similar way, it would go a long way toward healing the world.”

Above all, his experiences as both a Jew and a member of the LGBTQ+ community have reinforced the importance of authenticity, participation, and connection.

“Being part of both communities has shown me that the most important thing is just to show up, be yourself, and connect with others,” he said. “Just by being there, you make a difference, and you find new opportunities to contribute your own unique strengths.”

Whether gathered for a Shabbat service, a Pride celebration, or a community event, Milo believes the same principle applies.

“Teamwork and togetherness make the world go round,” he said.