Sept. 2026
Helen Metz

A full house gathered at JHamilton on Wednesday, June 24, for a special Pride Month event co-sponsored by the Hamilton Jewish Federation and Hamilton Jewish Family Services, featuring Hamilton native and Judge Harvey Brownstone.

Brownstone, the son of the late and much-loved Sam Brownstone, former JCC director, spoke about his memoir, Without Prejudice: My Life as a Gay Judge. He reflected on growing up in Hamilton, his gradual realization that he was gay, his mother's initial shock when he came out to his parents, and the challenges he faced as he pursued a successful legal career while living openly as a gay man.

Speaking with warmth, passion and humour, Brownstone captivated the audience, many of whom knew him personally or remembered his father. He described the evening as a "full circle event," reflecting on how dramatically attitudes have changed since the 1970s, when being gay often brought shame and rejection. Today, he said, the acceptance shown by the Hamilton community represents a "miraculous transformation."

Brownstone concluded his remarks with a message that has guided him throughout his life: "Success is the best revenge."

An engaging question-and-answer session followed, with audience members sharing comments and asking thoughtful questions. Brownstone also expressed concern about Canada's approach to young offenders, arguing that incarceration often places vulnerable youth in environments where they learn from others with similar backgrounds rather than receiving the support, rehabilitation and opportunities they need to recover, grow and change.

Photo by Donna Waxman Photography