Ron Yosef

Ron Yosef (born 1974) is an Israeli Orthodox rabbi known for publicly disclosing his homosexuality and advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion within Orthodox Judaism. He founded the organization Hod (Hebrew: הו"ד), an acronym for "Homosexuals Religious," which provides support and resources for LGBTQ+ individuals within the Orthodox community. Hod operates discreetly and offers a safe space for individuals struggling with their sexual orientation and religious identity. Yosef faced significant backlash from some segments of the Orthodox community for his activism. His work aims to bridge the gap between religious tradition and modern understanding of sexuality, advocating for acceptance and understanding within Orthodox communities. He argues that homosexuality and Orthodox faith are not mutually exclusive and seeks to create a more inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. His efforts have contributed to a wider, albeit still limited, dialogue within Orthodox Judaism regarding LGBTQ+ issues.