Defending Jewish Values
Combating Hate
Meet the leaders of ActJew
Michael A. Harris
Founding Chairman & CEO
Michael A. Harris is an experienced activist, journalist and political communications professional. Michael was New York State Co-Chair for Howard Dean’s presidential campaign and later served as a Senior Policy Advisor at the Democratic National Committee, the New York State Assembly and the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission. During the 2025 election cycle he served as a legal advisor to Andrew Cuomo’s mayoral campaign and coordinated voter registration and outreach efforts for Jewish Voters Unite. A Brooklyn native, Harris holds a BA in political science and journalism from Manhattanville College. He lives on the Upper East Side and is a member of the Park Avenue Synagogue and Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun.​​
Board of Directors
Ben Akselrod
Founding Board Member
Ben Akselrod is a Democratic District Leader for the 76th Assembly District Part A, representing the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island. When he was first elected in 2023, Ben was the youngest Manhattan District Leader. He is a regular at Park Avenue Synagogue, where he sits on the 20s and 30s committee, known as NextDor. He helps organize events and leads monthly discussion groups in conjunction with the synagogue's shaliach.
Roy Moskowitz
Founding Board Member
Roy Moskowitz graduated from Syracuse University and has worked as a print and broadcast journalist, communications professional and political consultant during his multi-decade career. His employers have included radio stations, print publications, medical companies, ad agencies, political campaigns and the New York State Assembly. Roy is a Richmond County Democratic Party County Committee member and serves on his synagogue’s board of directors. Born in upstate New York, he currently resides in Staten Island with his wife Ann.
Moshe Spern
Founding Board Member
Moshe Spern is a co-founder and President of United Jewish Teachers. He is a 15-year New York City public school teacher, a United Federation of Teachers member, and a yeshiva high school principal. He is a respected advocate for Jewish students and educators, known for building community and addressing antisemitism. Through grassroots organizing, union engagement, and collaboration with education and city leaders, Spern has mobilized educators and voters, through advocacy and leadership.