Keshet Starr: Tackling Jewish Divorce and Coercive Control
I have to every day believe that there is hope and that this vicious cycle is going to end one way or another, through advocacy, through education, through speaking up, through coming forward.
Ever wondered how religious and civil divorce processes intersect, especially in the Jewish community? In this episode of 'The Never Give Up Show!', Bailey Smith chats with Keshet Starr Esq., the CEO of the Organization for the Resolution of Agunot (ORA). Keshet's work focuses on addressing the agunah crisis, where Jewish women are denied a religious divorce by their husbands, turning what should be a legal procedure into a form of coercive control.
Keshet shares her insights on advocacy and early intervention initiatives aimed at helping individuals navigate this challenging landscape. She also emphasizes the importance of education and community involvement in preventing abuse within the Jewish divorce process. With personal anecdotes and professional expertise, Keshet discusses how to make the legal system more accessible and supportive for those in need. She highlights the critical role of educating rabbis and community leaders to foster a no-tolerance approach to get refusers.
Keshet also opens up about her own experiences with narcissistic abuse, offering hope and encouragement to others facing similar struggles. This episode is a compelling blend of personal stories and practical advice, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Jewish divorce and coercive control.