Trigger Warning: Sexual Abuse
For outsiders, the Hasidic community often appears as a mysterious world—an enclave steeped in religious fervor, old-world traditions, and an almost impenetrable commitment to its way of life. Originating in 18th-century Eastern Europe under the leadership of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov, Hasidism emerged as a spiritual revolution, emphasizing joyous worship, personal connection to God, and a sense of community. Today, Hasidic Jews live in vibrant communities across the globe, particularly in places like New York, London, and Israel. Their distinct dress, Yiddish language, and strict adherence to religious law set them apart, fostering both curiosity and misunderstanding among those outside their world.
However, like any insular society, the Hasidic community faces unique challenges. One of the most heartbreaking issues is sexual abuse—and the cultural tendency to keep such matters within the community. The tightly knit fabric of Hasidic life, while a source of strength, can also become a cage for those in need of help. Reporting abuse is often seen as a betrayal, not just of individuals, but of the entire community. Victims are pressured into silence, families fear public shame, and leaders sometimes prioritize protecting the community’s reputation over addressing the harm done to its members. This cultural dynamic makes it profoundly difficult for survivors to seek justice or healing, compounding their trauma.
This story is about Tzippy Landau, one survivor who broke through these barriers to find her voice—and her purpose.
"By 2019, I felt like I had hit rock bottom," Tzippy recalls. Raised in Boro Park, New York, as part of a well-established Hasidic family, her childhood was a tapestry of trauma. "The generational cycle of sexual abuse began before I was even two years old, perpetrated by close relatives and perpetuated across generations." This unimaginable reality left her grappling with PTSD, complex PTSD, and an array of challenges that continue to affect her daily life. To compound the pain, her father struggled with addiction and tragically took his own life in 2010.
"The weight of these experiences became unbearable," Tzippy shares. By 2019, she found herself battling suicidal thoughts and overwhelmed by the financial burden of her medical care. Desperate, she turned to GoFundMe, hoping to raise the funds needed for treatment. That was when Zvi Gluck and Amudim stepped into her life.
Zvi reached out and offered assistance. With the help of Amudim, she successfully completed a 42-day residential PTSD treatment program. That became the lifeline she so desperately needed. Thanks to their unwavering support, Tzippy began a journey of healing and self-reclamation. "The road to recovery hasn’t been easy—therapy and recovery are ongoing—but I’ve discovered strength I never thought possible."
Out of this pain, Tzippy found purpose. She launched Run4Amudim, not just as a race but as a movement. "Run4Amudim is about ensuring that no survivor feels alone," she explains. It raises awareness about trauma and secures the funds necessary so Amudim can help others access the care they need. It’s about transforming pain into hope, darkness into light.
As a participant and advocate, Tzippy has experienced firsthand the power of community. "Every step I take is for those still in the shadows, waiting for their chance to heal," she states. Through Run4Amudim, a network of people who believe in the transformative power of compassion and support is being built.
To anyone reading this, Tzippy invites you to join them. Whether by signing up to run, donating, or sharing this story, you can make a difference. Together, we can create a community where survivors not only survive but thrive.
Visit run4amudim.com to learn more, sign up, or contribute. Let’s run for a future of hope and healing—one step at a time.
