Jewish Orthodox women go on sex strike to force their friend's abusive husband 'Wolf' into signing papers to end marriage

Malky Gold Berkowitz, 30, sought a divorce from her husband after three years, alleging abuse

Malky spent just 15 minutes with Wolf 'Volvy' Berkowitz before they were married

An Orthodox Jewish woman, Malky Gold Berkowitz, 30, has faced significant challenges in seeking a religious divorce, or "gett," from her husband, Volvy Berkowitz, in their ultra-Orthodox community of Kiryas Joel, New York.

The refusal to grant the gett has left Malky in a state of being an "agunah," or chained woman, according to their community's marriage laws. This situation has sparked a nationwide movement for Malky's freedom and has highlighted the complexities faced by women in such conservative communities.

As men get the final say in whether a divorce can proceed, Malky was trapped - but her predicament garnered the support of advocates nationwide

Malky's marriage to Volvy, arranged through a matchmaker when she was 21, quickly turned tumultuous due to Volvy's erratic behavior and diagnosis of schizophrenia. Malky alleges abuse and disturbing behavior from Volvy, including threats made to their daughter. Despite her pleas for a divorce decree, Volvy and his family have not cooperated, leaving Malky trapped in a marriage she wishes to end.

The Orthodox Jewish tradition allows men to refuse a gett, causing immense difficulties for women like Malky. Without the gett, she cannot remarry within her faith, and any future children would face social and religious stigma as "mamzers."

Protests have erupted worldwide, in Malky's hometown of Kiryas Joel, New York (pictured), as well as other cities like Los Angeles and Jerusalem

Adina Sash, an activist with Ezras Nashim, has spearheaded a campaign for Malky's freedom. This movement has organized protests, including a mikvah strike, to raise awareness and pressure religious authorities to intervene on Malky's behalf. However, these efforts have been met with resistance, including harassment and violence towards supporters.

Despite the challenges, Malky and her supporters remain hopeful for a resolution. Recent developments include securing a date for a civil divorce hearing, offering a glimpse of potential progress in Malky's quest for freedom.

The demonstrations were organized by Adina Sash, an activist and EMT based in Flatbush, Brooklyn

The plight of Malky Gold Berkowitz underscores broader issues within conservative communities regarding women's rights and religious laws governing marriage and divorce. Her story has ignited a conversation about the need for reform and support for women facing similar struggles.