David Rothenberg with his hand over his heart during the ClapBecauseWeCare showing a sign of respect, instead of clapping this is his way of saying thank you. The gesture symbolize dignity and honor when we place our hands over our heart.
David Rothenberg is a veteran Broadway producer and prisoners' rights activist. After reading the script for Fortune and Men's Eyes by former prisoner and playwright John Herbert, he was instrumental in producing the play for an off-Broadway production.
Later, he was a civilian observer during the Attica Prison riot, which left a deep impression on him and spurred his lifelong activism for prisoner's rights.
This inspired him to found the Fortune Society organization, which advocates for prisoner's rights and works with former inmates to aid them in adjusting to life after prison.