Adina Sash, recognized online as Flatbush Girl, quickly seized an opportunity to challenge what she perceives as an injustice in Jewish divorce practices. After a man, identified as Nathan Gettisberg on a popular podcast, was recognized by viewers as Raphi Stein, Sash received numerous messages. These messages alleged that Stein was refusing to grant his estranged wife, Adeena Kohn, a 'get' – a religious divorce considered essential in Orthodox Judaism. Sash, a vocal proponent for 'agunot,' or 'chained women,' saw this public appearance by a 'get' refuser as an act of profound insensitivity.
Without directly contacting either Stein or Kohn, Sash initiated a public campaign. She condemned the podcast network, Living L’Chaim, and called upon her substantial online following to provide further details regarding the case. Although initially unaware of Kohn's name, Sash proceeded with her efforts. Subsequently, a close friend of Kohn's informed Sash that Kohn wished to maintain her privacy. Undeterred by this, and with public attention already drawn to Stein, Sash opted to raise funds through crowdfunding to support her advocacy, continuing her long-standing practice of campaigning for women in similar situations.
The story of Adina Sash illustrates the powerful role of social media in contemporary advocacy, particularly in niche communities. It demonstrates how individuals can leverage online platforms to shed light on deeply rooted social issues and rally public support for causes they believe in. Her unwavering commitment to assisting 'agunot' highlights the ongoing struggles women face within traditional religious frameworks and the innovative ways activists seek to bring about change, fostering greater awareness and encouraging dialogue around critical social justice issues.