Beyond Tech: Joshua Burgin's Commitment to Fighting Hate with the ADL
Joshua Burgin is a seasoned technology executive best known for his expertise in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and DevOps. With a career spanning over two decades, Joshua has amassed a wealth of experience in leading transformative initiatives across startups and established tech giants alike.
He currently serves as the Chief Product Officer at Upwind Security, where he drives innovation in cloud-native security solutions through Upwind’s Cloud Security Platform.
Prior to his role at Upwind, Joshua held pivotal positions at VMware and AWS, where he spearheaded groundbreaking advancements in product strategy and cloud services. At AWS, he played a key role in the growth of the AWS Outposts business and led multiple strategic acquisitions, significantly enhancing AWS's service offerings.
His time at VMware was marked by his work shaping product and cloud service strategies that continue to redefine industry standards.
Joshua’s journey into tech began at Amazon in its early days, where he witnessed the company's rapid expansion from a small office in Seattle to a global powerhouse. His time at Amazon laid the foundation for his deep understanding of technology’s transformative potential and the importance of innovation in shaping digital landscapes.
Beyond his professional achievements, Joshua Burgin is a dedicated advocate for social causes, notably supporting the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) through his involvement with the ADL Pacific Northwest Advisory Board.
The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, stands as a cornerstone in the fight against antisemitism and various forms of bigotry across the United States. Originating in response to the unjust lynching of Leo Frank, a Jewish man falsely accused of murder in Georgia, the ADL was established with a mission to combat the defamation of Jewish people and promote fair treatment for all.
Throughout its history, the ADL has evolved to address broader civil rights issues. During the civil rights movement, it aligned with other organizations to challenge segregation and advocate for equal rights legislation. This era marked a pivotal expansion of its mission beyond antisemitism to include combating discrimination in all its forms.
In the aftermath of World War II, the ADL intensified its efforts in Holocaust education and remembrance. It became a leading voice in ensuring that the horrors of the Holocaust are remembered and used to combat hate and prejudice globally. This commitment underscores its role in educating future generations about the consequences of intolerance.
Today, the ADL continues its crucial work in monitoring and combating antisemitism. It tracks incidents of hate and provides resources for schools, law enforcement, and communities to recognize and respond to antisemitic acts. Due to conflicts in the Middle East, antisemitism is on the rise in the United States.
The organization also confronts extremism across ideological spectrums, advocating for policies that address hate crimes and combat the spread of hate speech online and in society.
Through initiatives like “No Place for Hate,” the ADL promotes diversity, inclusion, and respect in schools and workplaces. It trains educators, law enforcement officials, and community leaders to recognize signs of hate and implement strategies for prevention and intervention.
The ADL also engages in advocacy, filing briefs in landmark cases that impact civil rights and religious freedom. It aims to ensure that laws protect individuals from discrimination based on race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
Internationally, the ADL collaborates with governments and organizations to address global antisemitism and promote human rights. It participates in initiatives that combat hate speech and extremism on a global scale, advocating for policies that uphold dignity and equality for all individuals.
Joshua Burgin’s connection to the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) is deeply rooted in personal experiences and a steadfast commitment to combating hate and promoting inclusivity. He said his journey with ADL began through his early engagement with Jewish organizations in Seattle, where he and his wife actively participated in community initiatives.
This initial involvement sparked his interest in ADL’s mission to counteract bigotry and foster understanding across diverse communities.
Through programs such as the Glass Leadership Institute, Joshua immersed himself in the advocacy group’s multifaceted approach to combating prejudice. This educational experience deepened his appreciation for ADL’s significant role in shaping school environments, collaborating with law enforcement, and advocating for civil rights.
His participation in the nonprofit’s initiatives, including facilitation roles in programs like “No Place for Hate,” underscored the organization's proactive stance in empowering youth to confront bias and promote tolerance.
Reflecting on his journey, Joshua Burgin emphasizes how ADL’s comprehensive efforts resonated with his values of justice and community empowerment. His ongoing dedication to ADL is driven by a shared vision of creating a society free from discrimination, where every individual can thrive in a climate of mutual respect and acceptance.
Seattle holds a special place in Joshua’s heart, not only as a hub for technological innovation but also as the city where he met his wife through a shared passion for Ultimate Frisbee. Over the years, he has witnessed the city’s evolution into a dynamic metropolis characterized by its diverse culinary scene, natural beauty, and vibrant business ecosystem.
Despite its growth, Joshua remains committed to preserving Seattle’s unique character and addressing the challenges that come with urban development.
Outside of his professional and community endeavors, Joshua finds joy in exploring the Pacific Northwest's scenic wonders with his family. Whether hiking in the Cascades, enjoying the coastal views of the Olympic Peninsula, or cheering for Seattle’s newest NHL team, the Kraken, he embraces the region’s adventurous spirit.
Joshua Burgin exemplifies leadership in the tech industry, driven by a passion for innovation, a commitment to social responsibility, and a vision for creating positive change in both technology and community spheres. His commitment to supporting social causes further defines his unique and ethical approach to being a business leader in the tech community and beyond.
