Join for an inspiring conversation with Staff Sergeant Nicholas "Bear" Bade - a dedicated Temple Sholom member who has served with distinction in the U.S. Air Force for six years.

Bear will share his personal journey of serving authentically as a transgender individual-offering a rare, firsthand perspective on the challenges, resilience, and hope that come with living openly in the military while staying deeply connected to faith and community. Earlier this May the Supreme Court cleared the way for the Department of Defense to begin enforcing a ban on transgender troops serving openly in the military. We will hear Bear share his experiences as he faces the possibility of being expelled from the military-a community he worked tirelessly to join and serve.

This special session is a unique opportunity to hear Bear’s story in his own words, ask questions, and reflect on what it means to serve with integrity and courage. Whether you are passionate about inclusion, interested in military life, or simply want to support a fellow congregant, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the power of authenticity and the strength found in community.

Bear will be joined by Jennifer L. Levi, the Senior Director of Transgender and Queer Rights for GLAD Law and a nationally recognized expert on transgender legal issues.

Register now to be part of this meaningful conversation and show your support for Bear and our values of inclusion and belonging.