Reflection: ADL Never Is Now Summit

The ADL Never Is Now Summit, held March 16-17 at the Javitz Center in New York City, was more than a conference—it was a powerful gathering of conscience, conviction, and collective action. With over 4,000 attendees, including a remarkable number of high school and college students from across the globe, the summit reflected both the urgency of the moment and the hope for the future.

Under the leadership of Jonathan Greenblatt CEO and National Director, ADL and his exceptional team, the event brought together voices from business, education, entertainment, government, and advocacy to confront the rising tide of antisemitism and hate. The programming was diverse and deeply emotional, offering not only analysis of current threats but also tangible strategies for action—on campuses, in communities, and across industries.

Among the most compelling moments were the recognitions of leaders who have taken a public stand against hate. Robert Kraft of Kraft Group received the 2026 ADL Changemaker Award was particularly inspiring, not only for his longstanding philanthropy but for his leadership as Founder of the Blue Square Initiative to combat antisemitism globally. Richard Dickson of Gap Inc. received 2026 ADL Courage Against Hate Award also stood out, standing for the growing role of corporate leadership in shaping cultural accountability and standing firmly against hate.

The struggles and support of students was a focus, with Adam Lehman, president and CEO of Hillel International, speaking on the main stage with over 60 Hillel student leaders from around the world and BBYO high-schoolers from across the country attending to learn and become empowered. The importance of allyship and interfaith relationships was highlighted with Emmanuel Acho honored with ADL’s Ally Award for his work building bridges across communities and a conversation with Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, President of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference.

For those of us representing FJMC International, the experience was both affirming and motivating. Our delegation from the FJMC Antisemitism Committee, led by Chair Irv Varykoni, included Dr. Steven Mandel, Nelson Mellitz, Aaron Altman, Mark Goldstein, and Milton Lipitz. Together, we saw firsthand the scale of the challenge—and the equally powerful scale of those committed to meeting it.

What made the summit especially impactful was its emotional resonance. Survivors’ testimonies, student voices, and global perspectives reminded us that antisemitism is not an abstract issue. It is personal, persistent, and evolving. Yet so too is the response. From grassroots organizing to high-level corporate engagement, the message was clear: silence is no longer a choice.

As people left from the summit, everyone felt that it was more than simply an event—it inspired them to act. For FJMC and all who attended, the responsibility is now ours—to take the energy, the lessons, and the partnerships forged at Never Is Now and translate them into meaningful, sustained impact in our own communities.

Because “Never Is Now” is not just a slogan. It is a mandate.

For further information on ADL, go to adl.org. Learn how to keep up to date with our fight against antisemitism, extremism and hate, and how you can help make a difference.