NEW YORK (Press Release) – ADL (the Anti-Defamation League) on Wednesday announced that Richard Dickson, President and CEO, Gap Inc., will receive the Courage Against Hate Award at the ADL 2026 Never Is Now Summit.
Dickson is being recognized for his unwavering commitment to combating antisemitism and hate, his decisive corporate leadership in standing against bigotry, and his vision for making the fight against hate a core business imperative.
As CEO of Gap Inc., Dickson leads a $15 billion portfolio that includes Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic and Athleta, and directly employs over 80,000 people worldwide. His leadership extends beyond driving business results to the company’s purpose of bridging gaps to create a better world, embracing the belief that purpose and profit can coexist.
The award will be presented on the mainstage during ADL’s 2026 Never Is Now Summit on Antisemitism and Hate, on March 16-17 in New York City.
“Richard Dickson represents the kind of courageous corporate leadership we need in this moment,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, ADL CEO and National Director. “By making the fight against hate a business imperative and showing that moral clarity and commercial success are not only compatible but essential, Richard is setting a powerful example for corporate America. We are proud to honor him with the 2026 Courage Against Hate Award.”
As CEO of Gap Inc., Dickson has embedded bridging the inclusion gap into the company’s corporate purpose, with zero tolerance for hate or antisemitism. Following recent national tragedies, Gap initiated an internal forum where teams come together to explore complex topics, bridge divides, and build empathy.
Dickson’s values-driven leadership has also shaped his work beyond Gap Inc. During his tenure at Mattel, he helped lead a broader push for representation in play—advancing product lines designed so more children could see themselves reflected, including dolls with a wider range of skin tones and body types, and dolls representing disabilities, as well as supporting gender-inclusive play through new offerings. That commitment to inclusion and belonging has been a consistent throughline in his approach to brand stewardship and corporate leadership.
“I’m honored to be recognized by ADL, and I accept this award with gratitude, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility,” said Dickson. “At Gap Inc., our purpose is to bridge gaps to create a better world. That starts with fostering a culture where people can show up fully and feel safe, especially when the world feels divided. Antisemitism and hate won’t recede on their own. Business leaders have influence, platforms, and choices, and we must use them to set clear standards, support targeted communities, and stand for a society where dignity is non-negotiable and unity is not optional.”
ADL established the Courage Against Hate Award to recognize courageous and visionary leaders from the private sector who are dedicated to fighting hate for good, boldly use their personal and professional brands to that end and inspire others to actively work to make the world a better place.
Past recipients include KIND Founder Daniel Lubetzky, Accenture CEO Julie Sweet, Pfizer CEO Dr. Albert Bourla, Apple CEO Tim Cook, Chobani CEO and Founder Hamdi Ulukaya, Merck & Co. Executive Chairman Kenneth C. Frazier, and L’Oréal Chairman Jean-Paul Agon.
*
Preceding provided by the Anti-Defamation League.