(KINGWOOD, TX) – The Holocaust Remembrance Association will host its Upstanders Arise Gala—a powerful evening of remembrance, education, and action—on April 29, 2025, in Houston, Texas. This distinguished event – now sold out – honors individuals whose leadership and moral courage exemplify what it means to be an Upstander in today’s world. The evening will feature keynote remarks, a formal dinner, and a full-stage theatrical performance of “How to Die: The Life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer.” This year’s honorees include Governor Greg Abbott, Dr. Moshe Vardi, and Mrs. Caroline Glick—each recognized for their unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and the defense of Jewish life and memory.
Governor Greg Abbott will be honored with the Champion of Truth Award in recognition of his unwavering leadership in combating antisemitism and advancing Holocaust education. Through landmark initiatives such as Texas H.B. 3257 and Executive Order GA-44, Governor Abbott has strengthened legal protections, mandated the adoption of the IHRA definition of antisemitism across Texas public universities, and reaffirmed Texas’s support for Israel on the global stage. His decisive actions to uphold truth and protect Jewish communities embody the core values of this award.
Mrs. Caroline Glick will be honored with the Guardian of Memory Award for her unwavering dedication to preserving the truth of the Holocaust and its enduring lessons. As a writer, educator, and advocate, she has championed historical integrity through storytelling and public discourse, ensuring that the memory of the Holocaust remains a powerful force for education and moral clarity. Her work exemplifies what it means to be an Upstander—safeguarding truth and inspiring future generations to remember, reflect, and act.
Dr. Moshe Vardi will be honored with the Defender of Courage Award for his extraordinary moral courage in confronting antisemitism and discrimination within academia. A renowned professor at Rice University, Dr. Vardi has boldly spoken out against rising hostility toward Jewish students and faculty through a series of impactful op-eds that call attention to institutional failures and demand accountability. His unwavering stand, taken despite personal and professional risk, exemplifies the role of an Upstander—defending truth, challenging injustice, and inspiring change.
Upstanders Arise: From Remembrance to Responsibility is the Holocaust Remembrance Association’s benefit gala, held to advance Holocaust education and confront the rising tide of antisemitism. This formal evening features a keynote address from Brigitte Gabriel and a full-stage theatrical performance of How to Die: The Life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Proceeds support year-round educational programs and community initiatives.
Keynote speaker – New York Times bestselling author Brigitte Gabriel’s life story is one of resilience, determination, and an unshakable commitment to freedom. As a child, she survived war in the Middle East, enduring years in an underground bomb shelter before ultimately immigrating to the United States in search of security and opportunity. Her experiences have fueled a lifelong mission to educate, empower, and mobilize others in defense of Judeo-Christian values and fundamental human rights. As our keynote speaker, Ms. Gabriel will deliver an inspiring and urgent message about the need for bold leadership in the fight against bigotry and extremism.
STATEMENTS BY HRA18 LEADERS
“Upstanders Arise is more than a gala—it is a call to action. In a time of growing darkness, we must shine a light on truth, justice, and remembrance. Our honorees exemplify what it means to stand with courage, lead with integrity, and refuse to be silent in the face of hate. Through their example, we are reminded that history’s lessons are not just to be remembered—they are to be lived,” said Rozalie Jerome, Founder & President of HRA18.
“This evening brings together leaders who are making a real difference. The Upstanders we honor have boldly stood against antisemitism and injustice, each in their own way. Through this gala, we reaffirm our shared commitment to protecting freedom, confronting hatred, and inspiring the next generation to carry forward this vital mission,” said Holly Ham, Board Member and Upstanders Gala Chair
BACKGROUND INFORMATION / RESOURCES
Upstanders Arise Gala Introduction Video Watch Here
Upstanders Arise Gala Information & Details Click Here
For more information about the Upstanders Arise Gala, the Holocaust Remembrance Association, or projects like the March of Remembrance, and the March of Life, visit HRA18.org – to schedule interviews, please contact Rozalie Jerome at RozalieJ@hra18.org or (832) 287-5057.
About the Holocaust Remembrance Association
The Holocaust Remembrance Association (HRA18) is a Texas-based 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to sensitizing hearts to the issues of the Holocaust and modern antisemitism through education, healing, and reconciliation. Formed by Jewish descendants of Holocaust survivors and their Christian allies, HRA18 seeks to end antisemitism and hatred of the Jewish people by growing a community of Upstanders who drive real change toward a more just and compassionate world for current and future generations.
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