Share This Post

Creating Allies & Advocates, Now & for the Future
On June 1st, 2023, the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation (AJCF) held its annual Gala at Pier 60, Chelsea Piers in New York City. The event united an esteemed group of honorees, supporters, and Holocaust survivors to celebrate those dedicated to fighting antisemitism and promoting tolerance worldwide. This year’s Gala theme, “Creating Allies & Advocates, Now & for the Future,” underscored AJCF’s ongoing mission to educate, commemorate, and foster a world free of hate.
Honoring advocates for change
The evening opened with a heartfelt address from AJCF’s US Director, Aviva Miller, who commended the honorees for their unwavering dedication to justice and human rights. “Tonight’s honorees embody the courage and commitment we need to combat hatred,” she noted, reinforcing AJCF’s commitment to inspire impactful change through education.

This year’s honorees included:

The Honorable Eric L. Adams
Mayor of New York City, received the AJCF Award for Fighting Hatred, recognizing his leadership in confronting antisemitism and fostering a more inclusive community.

Jeffrey Kessler
Esq., Co-Executive Chairman of Winston & Strawn LLP, was honored with the AJCF Advocacy Award for his influential legal work defending equality and justice.

John Catsimatidis
CEO of Red Apple Group, was awarded the AJCF Allyship Award for his longstanding support of diversity and advocacy for change.

Dr. Edith Eger
Holocaust survivor and bestselling author, received the AJCF Heritage Award for promoting resilience and healing through her personal story.

Montana Tucker
singer, songwriter, and social media activist, was recognized with the AJCF Social Media Activist Award for educating younger generations about the Holocaust through her impactful content.
The honorees’ work exemplifies AJCF’s mission to counter hatred and inspire action, reflecting a shared commitment to building a world where “never again” is a reality.
A night of reflection and purpose
The evening highlighted the essential role of remembrance and education in combating hate. Holocaust survivors joined as special guests, sharing personal stories that reinforced the importance of preserving these memories to prevent future atrocities. Attendees were reminded of the critical need for continuous learning, understanding, and commitment to standing against intolerance.
The Gala spotlighted AJCF’s ongoing initiatives, including programs supporting victims of genocide, educational seminars, and training programs aimed at fostering empathy and understanding.


Spotlight on the American Service Academies Program (ASAP)
A highlight of the Gala was AJCF’s American Service Academies Program (ASAP). This esteemed program connects top cadets and midshipmen from U.S. military academies with Holocaust survivors for an intensive study on ethical responsibility. Beginning in New York City and continuing at AJCF’s Center in Poland, ASAP engages participants in Holocaust history, instilling a commitment to ethical leadership that they carry forward in their military careers.
Looking to the future with determination
As the evening concluded, attendees reflected on AJCF’s commitment to advancing education and remembrance. As we mark 80 years since the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising the Gala, we emphasize the need for continued support to uphold AJCF’s mission. The honorees and attendees alike left with a renewed sense of purpose, united in the commitment to confront hatred and promote a world grounded in understanding and empathy.

Don’t miss out