In a landmark step, Yeshiva University has agreed to recognize an LGBTQ+ student club on campus, marking a significant advance for LGBTQ+ students and their allies. The newly established club, Hareni, will operate with the same rights and protections as all other student organizations—including the ability to publicly use the term “LGBTQ+,” access university resources, choose its own leaders, and hold events on campus. 

YU’s agreement to recognize Hareni resolves a lawsuit filed by ECBAWM in 2021 on behalf of the YU Pride Alliance, an unofficial LGBTQ+ student club, and four students after the University refused to recognize their club. The University’s milestone recognition of Hareni ensures that all students can fully participate in campus life, demonstrating that Jewish and LGBTQ+ identities can coexist within a welcoming academic environment.

The settlement received coverage in The New York Times and The YU Commentator.   

“This victory is not just for our club—it’s for every student who deserves a safe space to be themselves.” said Hayley Goldberg, a President of Hareni, YU Class of 2027. “I’m excited to move forward, build community, and continue advocating for a school where everyone belongs.”

Schneur Friedman, a President of Hareni, YU Class of 2025, echoed the sentiment: “This agreement affirms that LGBTQ+ students at Yeshiva University are valued members of the community. We are grateful to G-d and all those who stood with us in our fight for progress, equality and understanding.”

Katherine Rosenfeld, Partner at Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward & Maazel LLP, who represented the students, hailed the settlement as a critical achievement for LGBTQ+ rights in faith-based institutions. “The creation of Hareni is a testament to the power of students speaking out for dignity and equal treatment. It ensures that LGBTQ+ students at Yeshiva University have a recognized place on campus and can fully participate in university life just like their peers. This is a cause for celebration not just for these students, but for the ability to create spaces where all students can participate in campus life.”

Max Selver, Associate at Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward & Maazel LLP, who represented the students, said: “Our clients embody the courage it takes to stand up for equal treatment on campus. We are excited for them to open a new chapter in building a welcoming and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ students on campus.”

In a joint statement, the Pride Alliance and Yeshiva University said: “The parties reached an agreement and the litigation between the Pride Alliance and the University is ending. Current students will be implementing a club, to be known as Hareni, that will seek to support LGBTQ students and their allies and will operate in accordance with the approved guidelines of Yeshiva University’s senior rabbis. The club will be run like other clubs on campus, all in the spirit of a collaborative and mutually supportive campus culture.” 

Press:

“Yeshiva University recognizes LGBTQ+ student group in landmark settlement” – Forward

“Yeshiva University will recognize LGBTQ+ student club after years of dispute” – AP

“Yeshiva University recognizes LGBTQ student club, reversing a longtime ban” – JTA

“YU and Pride Alliance Reach Settlement, Ceasing All Litigation and Establishing a New Club “Hareni” – The Commentator

“Yeshiva University Recognizes L.G.B.T.Q. Club After Lengthy Battle” – The New York Times