1984
Reconstructionist Judaism First to Ordain Openly LGBT Rabbis
Cultural Activism
The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College became the first rabbinical seminary to vote to accept and ordain students regardless of sexual orientation. In 1985, Deborah Brin became the first openly lesbian rabbi ordained through this policy, making Reconstructionist Judaism the first Jewish denomination to formally open ordination to LGBTQ+ candidates.
Impact & Significance
Set a precedent for other Jewish denominations and faith traditions to follow in embracing LGBTQ+ clergy.
Reference Record
- Date
- 1984
- Era
- 1970-1989
- Sources
- 1
Editorially reviewed — reviewed · last reviewed 2026-09-19.
Questions This Event Helps Answer
Q When was same-sex marriage legalised in the UK? Same-sex marriage was legalised across the UK in stages, with England and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland reaching implementation at different times. Q Which LGBTQ+ public figures changed visibility? They changed visibility in politics, science, activism and literature by showing that queer lives could be public, influential and historic. Q How did LGBTQ+ faith inclusion develop? It developed through LGBTQ+-affirming religious organisations, openly LGBTQ+ clergy, denominational policy changes and contested pastoral shifts.
Related Events
1978 First Openly Gay Rabbi in the United States 1987 Princess Diana Opens the Broderip HIV Ward 2010 First Asexual Awareness Week Held 2003 Gene Robinson Consecrated as First Openly Gay Bishop in the Anglican Communion 2006 Conservative Judaism Lifts Ban on Gay and Lesbian Ordination 2019 First Openly Gay Orthodox Rabbi Ordained
