New York State made history at 11:55 pm on June 24, 2011, when New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law the Marriage Equality Act, making New York the sixth state to legalize gay marriage, thus removing the current barriers same-sex couples face in recognizing their relationships, protecting their families and obtaining essential benefits. The clergy and leadership of Temple Sinai of Roslyn applaud the New York State Legislature for passing this law, which goes into effect on July 24, 2011.
Temple Sinai of Roslyn takes great pride in its deeply-rooted commitment to social justice. The Temple's Gay and Lesbian Inclusion Committee (GLIC), as well as the Social Action Committee, have long been dedicated to educating congregants on the issues of equality. For over 14 years, GLIC has promoted awareness of gay and lesbian issues through various programs on topics including "Growing Up Gay and Lesbian on Long Island" and marriage equality by organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign, The New York State Pride Agenda, Reform Jewish Voice, Pride for Youth, Long Island Gay and Lesbian Youth (LIGALLY) and Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG). The entire Temple Sinai of Roslyn community has a strong commitment to social justice, believing all persons are entitled to a life of dignity and wholeness.
"Judaism's Reform Movement believes strongly in community, acceptance, inclusion and the idea that we are all created in God's image," said Rabbi Benjamin David, one of Temple Sinai of Roslyn's spiritual leaders. "This historic decision grants hundreds and thousands of individuals the dignity they were too long denied."
David Schwartz, Temple Sinai of Roslyn's President, and Lynn Fishkind, Chair of GLIC, speaking on behalf of the Board of Directors, look forward to having an opportunity to celebrate and rejoice in some of the many same-sex marriages that are now expected to occur in the Temple's elegant catering facility. V&Z; Caterers, Sinai's renowned, exclusive in-house caterer, is prepared to assist all couples who choose to be married in Temple Sinai of Roslyn's beautiful sanctuary by creating the wedding of their choice, be it a simple, intimate event or a lavish extravaganza.
Temple Sinai of Roslyn is located at 425 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights, New York. For further information on special event opportunities or any of our services or our religious or nursery schools, please contact Ethel Liebeskind at 516-621-6800. Visit our website at www.mysinai.org.