This program primarily serves Jewish LGBTQ people. Recently, JQ International’s Persian Jewish division has been growing. Individuals who identify as LGBTQ are given a safe space to be their authentic selves and meet others who have come out in this community. Nevertheless, although the organization’s name is Jewish Queer International, the nonprofit makes it clear that one does not need to be Jewish to reach out to them, or participate in programming. JQ International is committed to serve the LGBTQ community as best it can, whether that means members of the community who are Ashkenazi, Mizrahi, Sephardic, Persian, or even Christian, Muslim, Baha’i, Zoroastrian, etc. JQ’s ultimate goal is to be a resource for those who need it. They do not restrict attendance at events, and welcome people from all religions and backgrounds. JQ also serves parents, spouses, friends and family who have been impacted by a loved one who has come out.

Shervin and Asher want JQ to be an inclusive program that can help the larger community. They want to bring awareness to both the Jewish community and the Persian community. They have worked endless hours to make a program that can serve individuals in need of confidentiality and comfort, so that they can trust the organization and accept their resources. Asher and Shervin have built a program that guides people on the path toward self­acceptance as well as acceptance from loved ones and from the community.

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