Statement on Community Principles

The Greater Cincinnati Board of Rabbis’ commitment to K’lal Yisrael and respect for the diversity of expression of Judaism within our community form the foundation of this document. While valuing and supporting the autonomy of a congregation to determine its own religious boundaries, the GCBOR recognizes that the Cincinnati Jewish community is strengthened and enriched when it is welcoming and open to all Jews seeking to give expression to Judaism.

The GCBOR embraces the principles of inclusivity and egalitarianism as fundamental in fashioning a healthy community. The principles call upon us as a Board, and as member rabbis, to ensure an openness to all Jews regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital status, or affiliation, participating equally and fully in the Jewish community and its communal ritual celebrations and observances.

This Board recognizes its responsibility to ensure that these principles, embraced by the majority of the Jewish community, are upheld. It is thus the policy of the Greater Cincinnati Board of Rabbis to participate in community events and programs that respect full equality of all participants. Only community events and programs that embrace these principles will receive the full support, endorsement, and participation of the Greater Cincinnati Board of Rabbis and its individual members.

Our community is further strengthened when the highest level of mutual respect, professionalism, and cooperation can be achieved. It is the responsibility of rabbis, agency executives, and others who serve the Jewish community to act in a manner that strengthens and elevates our community. Similarly, synagogues, Jewish institutions, organizations, and agencies should act in such a manner.

The Greater Cincinnati Board of Rabbis, open to all rabbis in our community, recognizes the responsibility that rests upon us to build a vibrant Jewish community.