Capturing the Spirit of Tel Aviv's LGBTQ+ Community
As the right-wing, conservative, and nationalist government was sworn in about half a year ago, the feeling that the ground would slip from under us was more tangible than ever. LGBTQ+ communities have always struggled for freedom of expression, and prominent liberal figures have led the way in recent months. Photographer Nadav Yahalomi captures the Holyland’s LGBTQ+ community's vibrant spirit in an exclusive visual journey for Haaretz Pride Edition. Against a charged political backdrop, our rooftop photoshoot offers a glimpse into the diverse lifestyle of the community.
It seems that the polarization and tension in the country are also evident within the LGBTQ+ community. LGBTQ+ individuals are not spared from gender dynamics, and they may even become more intense. Nevertheless, when the storm rages around us, unity within the community becomes more important than ever. As a result, we chose to dedicate the cover photo of "Haaretz" newspaper's Pride supplement to a utopia, despite, and perhaps because of its distance from harsh reality.
This photograph was taken on the roof of the "Haaretz" building in South Tel Aviv. Thanks to all our community members who took the time out of their busy schedules to come and be photographed on Friday: Yonatan Harel, Eli Chezir, Adi Ya'ara, Naomi Galili, Ori Cohen, Dean Simon, Gil Sari, Yonatan Agassi, Atalia Emanuel Rot, Ziv Hagege, Mariel Albaz, Noam Shaulski, Hani Sirkin, Liel Bomberg, and Ilai Dov.
Haaretz's Pride edition cover shoot was organized by Ultra Complex to demonstrate how the community can serve as a bridge between diverse backgrounds, sectors, religions, genders, and ages. Call me naive or prophetic, but I wish my community could sit peacefully by the pool or at a midday party, enjoying the sunlight on the roof, relaxed. During this Pride month, I wish my community this. Call me naive. No one can defeat us if we are there for each other more than we dare to be. We will conquer darkness that way.