Full Breakdown
A Wider Bridge Announces Closure Amid Financial Strain and Controversy
12/20/2025, 8:18:35 AM
Overview of A Wider Bridge's Mission and Impact
A Wider Bridge, a pro-Israel LGBTQ organization founded in 2010 by activist Arthur Slepian, has announced it will cease operations by December 31, 2025. The San Francisco-based nonprofit aimed to connect LGBTQ communities in North America with their counterparts in Israel, promoting Israel's record on LGBTQ rights while addressing antisemitism and anti-Zionist sentiments within queer spaces. The organization organized trips to Israel, partnered with Israeli LGBTQ groups, and initiated programs like PrideSafe and Queers Against Antisemitism.
Financial Challenges and Internal Turmoil
The decision to shut down comes after years of financial difficulties, as highlighted by board chair Daniel Hernandez in a statement to supporters. Despite efforts to secure sustainable funding, A Wider Bridge faced significant financial strain, reporting a budget imbalance in 2023 where expenditures exceeded income. The organization raised only $1.1 million in 2023, a decline from over $1.6 million in each of the previous two years. Additionally, the organization experienced internal turmoil following the sexual misconduct charges against its executive director, Ethan Felson, in late 2024, which contributed to leadership changes.
Controversies and Polarization
A Wider Bridge became a focal point of contention within progressive LGBTQ circles, often clashing with activists who perceived its pro-Israel stance as political propaganda. Tensions escalated during events such as the 2016 National LGBTQ Task Force’s Creating Change conference, where an A Wider Bridge event was disrupted by protests. The organization faced further backlash in 2017 when Jewish marchers with rainbow flags featuring Stars of David were asked to leave the Chicago Dyke March, leading to accusations of discrimination against Jewish identities in queer spaces.
Recent Developments and Legacy
In the wake of Hamas' October 7, 2023, attack on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza, A Wider Bridge intensified its focus on combating antisemitism within LGBTQ communities. The organization supported Aguda, Israel's leading LGBTQ advocacy group, after it was expelled from the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association. Despite its closure, A Wider Bridge emphasized its legacy of advocacy for LGBTQ rights in Israel and its efforts to counter antisemitism and anti-Zionism in queer spaces. Hernandez noted that while the organization is winding down, its board members and supporters would continue their work individually.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of A Wider Bridge argue that its presence at LGBTQ events promotes a political agenda that undermines the experiences of marginalized communities. Activists have expressed concerns that the organization's pro-Israel stance conflates LGBTQ rights with political support for Israel, leading to divisions within the queer community.
Verbatim Quotes
“After 15 years, A Wider Bridge has made the difficult decision to wind down our operations,” — Daniel Hernandez, Board Chair
“Though we are winding down, this is not a time to back down,” — Daniel Hernandez, Board Chair
