The name of Erie's Reform Jewish temple, Anshe Hesed, is Hebrew for "People of Kindness." This name perfectly encapsulates the temple's acceptance and welcoming of the LGBTQ community. Many members of Temple Anshe Hesed are part of the LGBTQ community, and the temple takes part in Pride celebrations every June. Temple member Kris Haas explains, "When we came to temple, very early on Rabbi told us that [my wife and I] were far from the first lesbian coupleand that was a huge thing for me. Knowing that there were others and that I wouldn't have to hide the most important person in my life for fear of being ostracized."