Abraham Foxman (1940–2026)

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum deeply mourns the loss of Holocaust survivor, Council member, and special friend Abraham Foxman, a towering advocate for the Jewish people worldwide and one of the world’s foremost voices in the global fight against antisemitism.

Born in Nazi-occupied Poland, Abe survived the Holocaust as an infant after being sheltered by his Catholic nanny, who risked her own life to save his. The experience of being marked for death simply because he was Jewish—and the courage and moral clarity of the woman who protected him—inspired his lifelong, tireless efforts to combat antisemitism, his conviction that every human life is imbued with dignity and worth, and his commitment to the security of the State of Israel.

In his decades of leadership of the Anti-Defamation League, he transformed the ADL into a global institution, engaging political and religious leaders in Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas, using his singular voice to champion the safety and security of the Jewish people worldwide. He was deeply committed to preserving the memory of the Holocaust, educating people about its continuing relevance, and honoring those rare individuals who rescued Jews. He was the only member of the Museum’s governing Council to be appointed by four presidents from both parties–Presidents Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Clinton, and Biden. He leaves an extraordinary legacy that is an inspiration to everyone who shares his commitment to confronting antisemitism and hatred in all of its forms and promoting the dignity of all people.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife Golda, his children and grandchildren, and the entire Foxman family.

Jeffrey Miller, Chairman

Allan Holt, Vice Chairman

Sara Bloomfield, Director