New Lesbian Rabbi Brings LGBTQ Issues to Forefront at University of San Francisco
A new rabbi-in-residence at the University of San Francisco (USF) is bringing LGBTQ issues into the forefront of the Jesuit campus’ social justice work.
Rabbi Camille Shira Angel, a lesbian woman, has taught in the Swig Program in Jewish Studies and Social Justice for many years. Now she is moving into her role as the university’s first ever rabbi-in-residence, bringing a renewed energy and spirit into the position that serves students of all backgrounds, especially those who are LGBTQ.
Angel begins the position this fall, adding to her impressive resume of activism and spiritual work. A ninth-generation rabbi, Angel formerly served in a leadership capacity at Sha’ar Zahav, an LGBTQ Jewish community in Los Angeles. A scholar of religion and LGBTQ communities, Angel regularly teaches an ethics course on “Queering Religion” at USF. She will now be officiating at Jewish lifecycle events, as well as offering spiritual support to Jewish and other students, according to Jewish News of Northern California.Julie Dowd, director of campus ministry, said that Angel’s new position was designed specifically to utilize her gifts and experience.
—Catherine Buck, New Ways Ministry, August 22, 2019
