Beyond Conversion: The Complexities of Identity in Modern Times Yona Speidel's recent conversion to Judaism has shed light on a phenomenon that highlights the challenges people face when publicly declaring their spiritual identity.
As someone who has navigated multiple identities – from her Amish and Mennonite upbringing to her current status as a trans woman of Jewish faith – Speidel's experiences offer valuable insights into the intricacies of modern identity politics.
Revealing her conversion to Judaism has been "a lot harder than coming out as trans," Speidel says. This assertion is striking given the significant advancements in LGBTQ+ rights over the past two decades.