Powerful presentation at Pride Shabbat

More than 100 people attended an inspirational Pride Shabbat June 17 at Temple Habonim in Barrington. Prayers and readings included a remembrance for those killed in Orlando June 5.

The congregation heard Roz, Richard and Hunter Keith speak about their journey as a family supporting Hunter, who is a transgender teen. Parents Roz and Richard spoke about the shock when Hunter told them. They also spoke about the unconditional love they have for their children. Hunter also spoke about acceptance at the Jewish day school he attends in Michigan, where the family lives. The Keiths are cousins of long-time Habonim members Vicki and Cliff Karten. He also emphasized how fortunate he is to have so much support.

More than 40 percent of transgender teens attempt suicide, he said.

The family has started an organization called Stand with Trans to help transgender youth. For more information, standwithtrans.org