Stosh Cotler is the former CEO of Bend the Arc and a veteran social movement strategist, trainer, and consultant. During her eight-year tenure leading the organization, she was recognized as one of the most charismatic leaders of the American Jewish left, bringing over thirty years of professional organizing experience.
Under Cotler’s leadership, Bend the Arc experienced explosive growth, particularly during the Trump administration, where she spearheaded the “Moral Resistance” movement as a vanguard against hate speech and xenophobic policies. Beyond external political change, she championed the decolonization and racial equity of Jewish institutions from within. She has been repeatedly named by The Forward as one of America’s most influential Jewish leaders and is highly respected for her contributions to queer rights and feminist narratives.
Cotler has long been a courageous voice within the Jewish community criticizing occupation policies. She argues that Jewish leadership must have the bravery to confront the moral costs of Zionism and actively supports various joint statements to “End the Occupation.” She believes true “Jewish leadership” is reflected in the critique of power. She once noted: “If we remain silent, we are complicit. Our faith demands that we stand with the oppressed. Recognizing Palestinian self-determination is not a betrayal of Jews; it is an enactment of our highest ethical standards.” She frequently uses interfaith platforms to call for a peace based on justice and equality.