Dawn Cohen

Dawn Cohen is a clinical psychologist, journalist, and lifelong activist for LGBTQ+ rights and against homophobia, antisemitism and more recently combating anti-Israel sentiment.

A co-founder of Dayenu, Sydney’s Jewish LGBTQ+ group, Dawn became a powerful voice in the 1990s, urging inclusion at the heart of Jewish life. She led groundbreaking initiatives like the first inclusive Jewish Mardi Gras float and a bold Shabbat celebration at Shalom College.

From confronting antisemitism in Byron Bay to the sole community leader advocating for marriage equality rather than domestic partnership in 1993, Dawn has never shied from challenging norms. In 2018, she joyfully married her beshert of 40 years, Robyn, under the chupa at Bondi Surf Club. Zionism has created a tiny safe place for gay people in Israel, irrespective of religion and ethnicity. Dawn sees it as critical to protect that legacy.