JOFA's Torch
The Torch explores gender and religion in the Jewish community. Named for Deborah the Prophetess, “the woman of torches,” the blog highlights the passion and fiery leadership of Jewish feminists, while evoking the powerful image of feminists “passing the torch” to a new generation. Disclaimer: All posts are contributed by third party authors. JOFA does not assume responsibility for the facts and opinions presented in them.
Dear Rabbi Pruzansky, From a Rape Survivor
Steven Pruzansky, an Orthodox rabbi in New Jersey who has made numerous problematic statements in the past, recently posted a highly ...
If Frum (Orthodox) Men Were Advised Like Women (at Passover)
Gentlemen, as Passover approaches, I thought you would appreciate the following advice: To avoid the usual stress of Passover cleaning, ...
Why is “Sisterhood” Still Relevant on Today’s College Campuses?
This past weekend, I was involved in an incredibly exhilarating and spiritually uplifting event: Nashir, the intercollegiate Jewish women’s arts ...
Swapping City Lights for Starlight
I came to Denver for the sunshine, really. I came to get away from the hustle and bustle of the ...
A Year of Fighting for Agunot
As I lay in bed, after talking to an international committee of organizations that advocate on behalf of agunot (Jewish ...
New SUPERGIRL Documentary Breaks Gender Norms, Lifts People’s Spirits
In January of 2013 I came across an article in the Jewish Daily Forward that read: “The strongest girl in ...
There Are No Chained Men
In the context of Jewish divorce, there are no chained men. Why?
International Agunah Day: Taking Matters into Our Own Hands
The agunah problem has not gone away. Every so often it rears its ugly head and we witness yet another ...
Candle Lighting’s Power to Connect and Transform Us
I’m thinking a lot about Shabbat candle lighting nowadays, in part because I’m awaiting the birth of my first grandchild ...
Scribes in a Circumscribed World: From Esther to Me
Purim is the one day of the year I feel empowered in my community. The rest of the year, services ...