Pride season is upon us, and this year we’re ringing it in by spotlighting the folks who make us proud to show up to work each day — the artists, activists, performers and personalities who make our community shine.

Elisha Alexander (2nd from the left, above) is a 42-year-old activist living in Tel Aviv, working with the transgender community as the director of Ma’avarim, an Israeli Trans Community NGO. Ma’avarim is the Hebrew word for “Passageways”, “Transitions”, or “Crossings”. The organization was established with the goal to empower and support members of the trans community, facilitating both personal and social change. Using an innovative approach to trauma within marginalized communities, and burnout among activists, Ma’avarim aims to bring about positive change in society.

This weekend, Tel Aviv holds its annual Pride, putting a spotlight on bisexuality for 2017.

What are you working on right now that brings you pride?

Working to create accessible mental health care for trans people.

Describe your first Pride for us.

In Jerusalem 2004. It was also the first time I saw a drag king!

Which city’s Pride is on your bucket list?

I’d love to see Pride in New York, San Fransisco, and Madrid.

Does Pride feel different this year?

I am so happy we have so many young volunteers at all the Pride events in Israel this year.

Ultimate pride song?

Heather Small’s “Proud.”

Your ideal pride outfit?

A Ma’avarim t-shirt (because i have no choice!) 🙂

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