Rachael Heisler is Pittsburgh’s first woman and youngest City Controller. She has consistently gone above and beyond in her commitment to supporting the Jewish community and confronting antisemitism, both personally and professionally, often standing as one of the only non-Jewish voices willing to speak out. In 2024 and 2025, Heisler filed objections in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas to block a proposed ballot referendum that sought to prohibit the City of Pittsburgh from working with companies doing business with Israel. In recognition of her leadership and courage, StandWithUs honored her as the 2024 Shalom Award recipient at its Mid-Atlantic Community Reception. At a time when non-Jewish allies willing to take real risks in support of the Jewish community are increasingly rare, Rachael has remained steadfast despite facing significant backlash, threats, intimidation, and harassment. Thank you, Rachael, for your moral clarity, your unwavering support of the Jewish community, and your courageous stand against antisemitism.
