On Saturday, 22 February 2025, Makor Hayim Synagogue in Willesden Green hosted a transformative Disability Pride Shabbat, uniting the community in a profound celebration of inclusivity and justice. This service, co-created and led by three disabled members, exemplified the synagogue’s dedication to embracing diversity and fostering an environment where every individual is valued.

Student Rabbi Yael Tischler, one of the service leaders, reflected on the significance of the event:

“In celebrating Disability Pride, we were not only speaking about disability justice, but enacting it. The service was co-created and led by three disabled builders, myself included, and was a powerful manifestation of our community’s commitment to justice for all humankind, as well as celebration of our diversity.”

The service thoughtfully wove together traditional liturgy with insights from Jewish disability activists, creating a space for disabled members to share experiences and be honoured through a group aliyah. This inclusive approach not only highlighted the contributions of disabled individuals within the community but also reinforced the collective responsibility to advocate for justice and equality.

Simone Apsis said:

“The Disability Pride Shabbat was amazing –  for the first time a Shabbat service with disability justice at the centre of our service. A call for action is what is needed especially at a time when Jewish disabled people are often excluded because of ableism and disablism within our liturgy and practice. I very much hope our Disability Pride service enables us all to put disability justice at the core of everything we do in Jewish life, that goes beyond our services. True inclusion and freedom in the Jewish community will only be achieved by nothing about us without us.  Social change wherever that is must be led by the oppressed, in our case Jewish Disabled People. “  

In her sermon, Student Rabbi Yael drew inspiration from the teachings of Rabbi Elliot Kukla and Rabbi Julia Watts Belser, both of whom are pioneering voices in disability justice wihtin the Jewish community. She emphasized the concept of “radical rest,” as a protest against ableism. 

The service featured disabled members sharing their stories and being witnessed. These stories prompted attendees to reflect on how they could contribute to a more inclusive environment and challenged other congregations to reflect on their practices and consider how they could create spaces that honour the dignity and contributions of every individual.

As the Jewish community continues to navigate the complexities of modern society, celebrations like Disability Pride remind us of the importance of inclusivity as a core value. They call upon us to not only advocate for change but to embody it within our communal structures and daily interactions.

For those inspired to join this movement towards greater inclusivity, Makor Hayim welcomes you to be part of our vibrant and diverse community. Together, we can continue to build a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and able to step into their own agency.