Lesbian Rabbi to Attend White House Hanukkah Reception

Prominent lesbian rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum (pictured, center), the spiritual leader of Congregation Beth Simchat Torah, the LGBT synagogue based in New York City, is scheduled to attend the White House Hanukkah reception on Wednesday.

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama will host Jewish leaders and other reception guests on the State Floor this evening, according to the Washington Times.

In a statement released by CBST, Kleinbaum expressed gratitude for the invitation and said that she looked forward to returning the hospitality.

"I am delighted to represent the gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and queer communities at the White House in celebrating this holiday of freedom and liberation with President and Mrs. Obama," said Rabbi Kleinbaum. "The lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer community knows what it is to fight for equality and freedom and we are looking to President Obama to exercise leadership in this struggle. I am honored to be included and look forward to inviting the President and Mrs. Obama to CBST," she said.