Samuel De Falco, recipient of the Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel Award for Fairness, was recognized for his commitment to justice, inclusion, and civic engagement. Through his work with the National Youth Advocacy Corps at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, he has fostered meaningful dialogue around identity, belonging, antisemitism, and equality.
Samuel demonstrates the qualities of a true upstander through his integrity, empathy, and willingness to engage in difficult but important conversations. Through his involvement with the National Youth Advocacy Corps at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, he has emerged as a thoughtful leader who encourages understanding across differences and creates space for meaningful dialogue. Among an already exceptional group of young leaders, Samuel is known for his courage to speak up, listen deeply, and take action when it matters most.
Grounded in his identity and history, Samuel brings a profound understanding of antisemitism and its ongoing impact. Yet what distinguishes him most is his refusal to limit his advocacy to his own experience. He approaches all forms of injustice, including racism and discrimination against LGBTQ+ communities, with the same urgency and compassion, recognizing that the fight for dignity and safety is shared across communities. His work reflects a powerful belief that justice is interconnected and that standing up for others is a responsibility, not a choice.
Samuel’s leadership is both thoughtful and action oriented. Through his work developing a podcast on the enduring impact of antisemitism, he uses storytelling to educate, humanize, and build understanding. He challenges others to reflect on complex questions of identity, belonging, and safety, demonstrating that meaningful change begins with both awareness and empathy.
Beyond this project, Samuel has already made a significant impact in his school and community. He has advocated for policy change on Capitol Hill, led initiatives that preserve and celebrate cultural identity, and engaged his peers in honest, often difficult conversations about justice and civic responsibility. In every setting, he leads with humility, integrity, and a genuine desire to uplift others.
What defines Samuel as an upstander is not a single action, but a consistent way of moving through the world. He listens deeply, thinks critically, and acts with purpose. He creates space for others to be seen and heard, while also challenging those around him to grow.
Samuel DeFalco represents the very best of his generation. Through his courage, compassion, and commitment to standing up for others, he is helping to build a more just, inclusive, and humane future.
Cohen Family Upstander Month is generously supported by Duke Energy, Procter & Gamble, Cincinnati Museum Center, and the Mayerson Family Foundation.
