Breaking the Silence: Miryam Kabakov, Executive Director & Co-Founder of Eshel, on Supporting LGBTQ+ Orthodox Jews

In this inspiring episode of The Brand Called You, host Lisa Lipkin sits down with Miryam Kabakov, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Eshel—the largest organization supporting LGBTQ+ Orthodox Jewish individuals and their families. Miryam shares her powerful journey of growing up in an Orthodox Jewish environment while keeping her sexuality a secret. She discusses the complexities and struggles faced by LGBTQ+ members within Orthodox communities, what it means to live authentically, and how Eshel is creating safe spaces and fostering acceptance. This honest conversation covers: Jewish texts and their interpretations regarding LGBTQ+ identities Family reconciliation and the evolving process of coming out Challenges and successes in educating religious leaders and communities The importance of integrating LGBTQ+ individuals into Orthodox life without losing connection to faith