Dr. Elana Sztokman is a distinguished Israeli-American Jewish sociologist, rabbi, author, and activist. She is world-renowned for her pioneering research in Jewish feminism and gender reform within Orthodox communities.
Sztokman formerly served as the Executive Director of the Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance (JOFA). Her books, including The Men’s Section and The War on Women in Israel, are two-time winners of the National Jewish Book Award. Her career is dedicated to challenging patriarchal structures within Judaism and protecting women’s rights in both religious and public spheres. As a progressive rabbi, she creates spiritual spaces for marginalized individuals through a framework of “inclusive Judaism.”
Sztokman’s stance is deeply influenced by her feminist perspective—she views military occupation and patriarchal oppression as stemming from the same roots. She has stated: “The war did not save hostages. It killed hostages. In addition to killing over 20,000 Palestinian children. And utterly destroying Gaza……And meanwhile, around the world, anyone who dares suggest this, anyone who suggests that it’s wrong to keep randomly killing people, especially children, who we know are innocent — well, they are labeled antisemites.” She frequently uses her platforms to call for an immediate ceasefire and supports humanitarian aid for Gaza.