Episode 129: Idit Klein on a Quarter Century of Queer Jewish Leadership

Supporting and embracing queer Jews has been Idit Klein's mission for over a quarter century. Since 2001, she has led Keshet, which is now the largest organization for LGBTQ+ Jews in America. With her departure from Keshet approaching, Idit sat down with her longtime friend Judith Rosenbaum, to reflect on her career, the impact of today's political climate on her work, and how much has changed for queer Jews in her lifetime.

This episode includes Taoudella from Blue Dot Sessions.

You can find Can We Talk? on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. We're also on YouTube! Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a new episode.

Love Can We Talk? Please leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. You can also drop us a line and let us know what you think or suggest ideas for future episodes. We just might read your email on the air!

Want even more Can We Talk? Sign up for our newsletter.

view transcript

Released June 24, 2025

Idit Klein at the Rally for Trans Lives at the US Supreme Court, December 2024. Courtesy of Keshet.
Miami Beach Pride, 2024. Courtesy of Keshet.
Palm Beach Pride Parde, 2025. Courtesy of Keshet.
Idit Klein at the White House for a celebration of the Respect for Marriage Act in 2022. Courtesy of Keshet.
Courtesy of Keshet.
Idit Klein with President Obama in 2016, celebrating Pride.
With then-Vice President Joe Biden and Jill Biden, Sukkot 2013. Courtesy of Keshet.
Outgoing Keshet CEO Idit Klein, right, and JWA CEO Judith Rosenbaum, August 2016. Courtesy of Judith Rosenbaum.
Idit Klein and her wife, Jordan Namerow, before they were married, at Jerusalem Pride 2010.