Queer Waters: Tashlich at Hanlan's Point

LGBTQ at the J and Shoresh invite you to Queer Waters: Tashlich at Hanlan’s Point 

Join us in observing the Jewish ritual of taschlich at Hanlan’s Point! Literally translating to “casting off”, taschlich is traditionally done on the second day of Rosh Hashanah or in the days before Yom Kippur. Many Jews go to a moving body of water to welcome the new year and symbolically cast into the water what we would like to leave behind. We bring this ancient practice into the present moment, recognizing that the water is our teacher and we are all connected to ourselves, to one another, and to the nature around us. Hanlan’s point is one of the Toronto Islands, and its beach faces west, allowing us to watch the sunset as we engage with this ritual. LGBTQ+ community has gathered at Hanlan’s Point since the 1950s, and the first Gay Pride celebration took place on this beach in 1971. We will bring our Jewish practices and community to this queer landmark as we enter the new year together.

About LGBTQ at the J 

LGBTQ+ at the J (Miles Nadal JCC) strives to be the heart of Toronto’s LGBTQ+ Jewish community, providing queer Jews opportunities to gather, celebrate and thrive. We aim for the full inclusion and celebration of LGBTQ+ Jews across Jewish communal institutions, in Jewish life, arts and cultural initiatives, and informal and formal education and more.

About Shoresh

Through nature-based Jewish education, Shoresh leads, inspires, and empowers our community to be Shomrei Adamah, protectors of the earth.  Integrating awareness, action, and advocacy, Shoresh’s programs and initiatives demonstrate that sustainability is a Jewish value and offer community members meaningful opportunities to be responsible stewards of the earth.

Accessibility Information 

The ferry, pathways, and boardwalks leading up to Hanlan’s Point are all wheelchair accessible, but parts of this event will take place on the beach which can be difficult to navigate with a mobility device. Please reach out to emunahw@mnjcc.org for a conversation on how to best support your participation or for other access-related questions.

Presented with support from Kolel Legacy Fund at the Jewish Foundation of Greater Toronto