Keep Not Silent

Winner of the 2004 Israeli Academy Award for Best Documentary, Keep Not Silent documents the clandestine struggle of three women fighting for their right to love within their beloved Orthodox communities in Jerusalem. All three are pious, religiously committed women. All three are lesbians and members of a secret support group called the “Ortho-dykes” They are considered “sinners.” Though their life choices exact a devastating price, these women are committed to confronting their duality, and accept the toll with a profound compassion toward their society. Miriam-Ester fights her version to a man’s touch for the sake of her family and ten children, while Ruth’s husband shockingly permits his wife her to see her female lover twice a week. Yudith, a Rabbi’s daughter, declares her sexuality openly as she believes “lies are the worst sin on earth.” Ingenious cinematic techniques underscore the excruciating pain of constant self-suppression, and provide the anonymity necessary for these women to continue living in their communities. Their courageous fight for self-realization, honesty and acceptance is an extraordinary model for those who seek truth for themselves and a place within their world.