Parrish, Desert chapter of ADL reconvene for more community conversations

MAP Strategies Group CEO Mi-Ai Parrish (right) leads a panel discussion at last year’s Anti-Defamation League conference in Tempe focused on community allies that included ADL regional director Sarah Kader; Richard Kasper of the Center for Jewish Philanthropy; Angela Hughey, founder of One Community; Rev. Katie Sexton; and state Senator Kiana Sears.

MAP Strategies Group

Embracing and accelerating the success of last year's inaugural gathering, MAP Strategies Group CEO Mi-Ai Parrish, the Desert Region chapter of the Anti-Defamation League, and Arizona State University gather next month for important conversations, panel discussions and more surrounding antisemitism, hatred, and what can be done in Arizona and the Southwest.

Rising Above Together, set for 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27 at the Omni Hotel in Tempe, brings together civic leaders, educators, law enforcement, students, interfaith partners and more to share ideas and create solutions to pressing matters that divide segments of our community.

Last year's event proved exceptionally “important and meaningful,” says Ms. Parrish, who led a panel discussion focused on community allies that included ADL regional director Sarah Kader; Richard Kasper of the Center for Jewish Philanthropy; Angela Hughey, founder of One Community; Rev. Katie Sexton; and state Senator Kiana Sears.

“The stories of tragedy, triumph and action continue to inspire the Jewish community and those who pursue truth and the ability to speak freely, especially during times of uncertainty and divergent viewpoints,” Parrish says. “Gatherings like this are central to freedom of expression.”

While the list of 2026 speakers is still being solidified, last year's event was a veritable who's-who from Arizona. Ms. Parrish was joined by U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, peace activist Loay Alshareef of Abu Dhabi, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, Rabbi David Wolpe, among many others.

To learn more and to reserve your seat, visit the local ADL website.