We are deeply saddened by the passing of Chasiah Haberman, an extraordinary leader, educator, and advocate in the Boston Jewish community. Serving as Boston Regional Manager at Keshet, Chasiah was deeply committed to fostering full inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals in Jewish life.
Her vision, warmth, and unwavering passion touched countless lives and left an indelible mark on those she served. Born with a compassionate spirit, Chasiah dedicated herself to both spiritual and educational pursuits.
She held a BA from Washington University in St. Louis, laid strong foundations in Jewish learning through the Drisha Scholars Circle, and later founded Tirtzah, an initiative that embodied her blend of leadership and Tikkun Olam (healing the world).
Her spiritual and pastoral approach led her to train as a chaplain at Hebrew Senior Life and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), where she developed deep empathy and the ability to offer solace in times of need.
Over the years, Chasiah enriched numerous communities through her roles as a congregational educator at Temple Beth Shalom in Cambridge and through teaching at Temple Israel of Boston.
Whether guiding students with kindness, helping patients in need, or supporting congregants spiritually, Chasiah’s presence always brought comfort and illumination. At Keshet, Chasiah made monumental strides in the fight for equality and inclusion.
In 2013, she led meaningful programs to honor the Transgender Day of Remembrance, publicly chanting kaddish for those lost to gender-based violence—a body of activism that highlighted her bravery and intersectional dedication.
To her colleagues and mentees, Chasiah was affectionately known for her gentle wisdom, her musicality in prayer, and her sharp insight in moments of uncertainty.
She embodied a deeply rooted commitment to community, inclusivity, and spiritual growth. As Boston’s Keshet Regional Manager, she built bridges across congregations, schools, and organizations, ensuring LGBTQ+ Jews felt celebrated and honored.
Chasiah’s legacy lives on through the initiatives she launched and the people she empowered. Her influence can be seen in the inclusive spaces she nurtured, from schools and hospitals to synagogues and advocacy events. Her dedication to healing, both personal and communal, positioned her as a true changemaker.
Those who knew her speak of Chasiah as a steadfast friend and mentor who was always ready with a listening ear, a thoughtful word, or a warm smile. Her unwavering commitment to equality, her devotion to spiritual care, and her passion for Jewish study made her a pillar of faith and service in our community.
As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the profound impact of her life. May her memory be a blessing—to her family, friends, congregations, Keshet colleagues, and everyone she touched. In her honor, we commit to continuing the inclusive, compassionate work that defined her life.
A gathering to honor Chasiah’s memory will be announced soon. In this difficult time, may those who loved her find comfort together and may her soul be bound in everlasting peace.
