The 36 Award

Honoring visionary efforts and fearless action to dismantle antisemitism through solidarity.

Open until July 17

Why now?

Antisemitism is a threat

Across America, vandalism of synagogues and Jewish institutions, harassment in schools and workplaces, conspiracy theories on social media and in political discourse, and violent attacks on Jews are on the rise. Fighting hatred against Jews is inseparable from fighting hatred and oppression in all its forms. A strong, multiracial, inclusive democracy is what's needed to keep Jewish Americans safe and combat antisemitic forces that try to divide us.

Solidarity is the solution

Antisemitism is a distinct form of oppression and interconnected with other forms of bigotry and hate. Across the country, there are courageous individuals who are taking innovative approaches that build solidarity across communities to address antisemitism and hate more broadly. The 36 Award is designed to acknowledge inspiring individuals taking innovative action, making an impact, and offering visionary alternatives.

Why 36?

The 36 Award is named after the concept in the Jewish tradition that in each generation, there are at least 36 righteous people, hidden to all including themselves. These people sustain the world with their righteousness — doing what is right even when it is unpopular or uncommon.

Know one of these inspiring people?

Award Process

  1. Nomination

    Open until July 17

    1. Nominate someone for The 36 Award

      Nominations are open until July 17. Nominate someone you know taking inspiring action, including yourself!

    2. Nominations are reviewed

      Staff of the Jewish Social Justice Roundtable reviews nominations for completeness and alignment with our criteria.

  2. Application

    Summer — By invitation only

    1. Select nominees apply

      Promising nominees will be invited to apply and provide more information about themselves and their work.

    2. References requested

      Nominees will be asked to share information about people who can speak to the impact of their work.

  3. Evaluation

    Early Fall

    1. Applications are read

      Our team of readers will review applications to identify inspiring finalists.

    2. Finalists interviewed

      Selected finalists will be invited to interview with staff of the Nathan Cummings Foundation to share their story and vision.

  4. Celebration

    Late Fall

    1. Winners announced

      Selected winners will be announced and their stories shared here and with our media partners.

    2. Celebration event

      The inspiring individuals who win The 36 Award will be celebrated at an event with community members and field leaders.

Criteria

  • Innovation and Wisdom

    Their approach is novel and pragmatic. They reject binaries, confront biases, and build bridges to new understandings. They model inquiry, openness, and flexibility in their approaches.

  • Courage and Commitment

    They show a willingness to take bold action where others have not. They invest time and energy for the sake of achieving justice, even if it's hard or unpopular.

  • Solidarity and Civil Rights

    They are grounded in social justice and working to dismantle harmful power structures in order to reimagine a better world. They have a track record and interest in building coalitions within and among Jewish and non-Jewish communities working for justice.

  • Impact and Future Potential

    Their approach to challenging antisemitism makes an impact. The recognition of this award could be catalytic for their leadership or disseminate their approach across the country, bringing awardees visibility they don't currently have.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is behind this award?

The Nathan Cummings Foundation is leading the effort in partnership with the Jewish Social Justice Roundtable, Henry Luce Foundation, and Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Washington. We are honored to be joined by many sponsors who are supporting this work by sharing with their networks and communities.

How much is the award?

Each recipient of The 36 Award will receive between $15,000–$25,000 in honor of their past work.

What do you not fund?

This award is not for organizations or non-profits. It is only for individuals and their work.

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Does this make a difference?

Award Readers

Selection of the award recipients is done by the Nathan Cummings Foundation board. Applications are read and reviewed by the following leaders in combatting antisemitism and civil rights.

  • Mike Berkowitz TBD
  • Megan Black TBD
  • Rabbi Sharon Brous TBD
  • Aaron Dorfman TBD
  • Maya Harris TBD
  • Rabbi Jill Jacobs T'ruah
  • Jonathan Jacoby TBD
  • Yehuda Kurtzer TBD
  • Faron McLurkin TBD
  • Rabbi David Saperstein TBD
  • Eric Ward TBD

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