Name: Adam Cohen

Occupation: Portfolio Manager

Community: New York Region

ADL Role:  Glass Leadership Institute Co-Chair, New York Regional Board, NGP

 

How did you get involved in ADL?  

While I had always been aware of ADL’s work and respected its global vision, I hadn’t contemplated becoming actively involved.  Through happenstance, I became aware of the Glass Leadership Institute, which ended up being my first foray into ADL. Through involved discussions with GLI graduates who now serve as lay-leaders in the organization, I came to view the GLI as an ideal vehicle to gain a more thorough understanding of ADL’s efforts.

What does ADL mean to you?  

ADL provides an intellectual yet passionate voice for not only Jews, but all people who can’t or won’t be heard as individuals. ADL is leading a fight for what is unequivocally and humanly just.  It serves as a proactive didactic organization that focuses on areas that do not receive enough public attention or support, and it offers events where people of all colors and backgrounds can give of their minds, bodies, and of course, their wallets.

As a leader in the ADL community, how would you advise others to have a local impact in the fight against hate? 

As an individual, it can seem incredibly daunting to take a stand against local hate-based incidents or acts.  While social media is sometimes used as a sword to deliver those hateful blows, it can also serve as a powerful tool.  I would advise those who want to have their voices heard to leverage social media for good – publicly expose those who undermine others and undermine our social fabric. Social media can also provide an excellent way to identify others who share a passion for justice and peace.  Additionally, as a Jew and a professional, I believe strongly in the power of education.  Once you educate yourself on issues of hate and bigotry – as I have through my GLI and ADL involvement – you can undertake the important task of educating others.