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Abraham FoxmanAmerican public figure, human rights activist
Date of Birth: 01.05.1940
Country:  USA |
Content:
- American Advocate and Civil Rights Icon: Abraham H. Foxman
- Early Life
- Education and Career
- ADL Advocacy
- Recognition and Honors
- - Interfaith Alliance's Lifetime Achievement Award (1998)
- - Honorary Doctorate from Yeshiva University (2008)
American Advocate and Civil Rights Icon: Abraham H. Foxman
Abraham H. Foxman, a prominent American public figure and civil rights activist, has dedicated his life to combating antisemitism and upholding human rights. As the former National Director of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and currently its Honorary National Director, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the global discourse on anti-hate and discrimination.
Early Life
Foxman was born in Baranovichi, Belarus, then part of Poland, in 1940. To protect him from Nazi persecution, his Catholic-Polish nanny, Bronisława Kurpik, took him into her care when his parents were forced into a ghetto in 1941. Foxman was baptized and given the Polish Christian name, Henryk. He was raised as a Catholic in Vilnius, Lithuania, until his parents reclaimed him in 1944.
Education and Career
Foxman immigrated to the United States in 1950 and pursued his education in New York City. He graduated with honors from Flatbush Yeshiva High School, earned a bachelor's degree in political science from City College of New York, and received a law degree from New York University School of Law. Foxman also holds a diploma in Judaic Studies from Jewish Theological Seminary of America and in International Economics from The New School for Social Research.
In 1965, Foxman joined the ADL's International Affairs division as an assistant in legal affairs. In 1987, he was unanimously elected by the Board of Directors as the ADL's new National Director, succeeding longtime director Nathan Perlmutter.
ADL Advocacy
Under Foxman's leadership, the ADL expanded its international reach, strengthened its programs to combat extremism and prejudice, and promoted interfaith dialogue. He has played a key role in the fight against neo-Nazism, Holocaust denial, and anti-Israel bias. Foxman has testified before Congress and at international forums, advocating for legislation and policies that protect against hate crimes and discrimination.
Recognition and Honors
Foxman has been widely recognized for his tireless efforts to advance human rights. He has received numerous awards from non-profit organizations, religious leaders, and government officials. Notable honors include:
- Interfaith Alliance's Lifetime Achievement Award (1998)
- Raoul Wallenberg Award for Humanitarian Leadership (2002)- France's highest civilian honor, the Chevalier of the Legion of Honour (2006)
- Honorary Doctorate from Yeshiva University (2008)
- Presidential appointment to the delegation attending Israel's 60th anniversary celebration (2008)
Foxman's legacy as a fearless advocate for justice and equality continues to inspire and empower generations to come. His unwavering commitment to combating hate and promoting human rights has left an indelible mark on the world stage.
