We explore how mathematics education can respond to broader social, cultural, environmental, and ethical challenges, framing responsiveness as a humanistic stance inspired by the philosophy of Martin Buber and rooted in centering relationships and adopting the other’s perspective. This line of work includes initiatives that bring together Jewish and Arab teachers in leadership groups to foster cross-cultural dialogue about teaching mathematics in times of uncertainty and to reconsider how mathematics connects to students’ lives in such contexts. We also investigate how mathematics teacher education can address urgent global concerns, and contribute to sustainable futures.