(Community Matters) however so well intentioned – albeit ineptly communicated – the Anti-Defamation League was wrong to speak out on the issue of a Muslim Center near Ground Zero. Whether or not one supports a Muslim Center near Ground Zero, ADL stands for religious tolerance. As a board member of the Austin ADL, I apologize to those let down by our otherwise strong stand for religious tolerance, equality and fairness and against bigotry & injustice in all forms.
ADL is and has been a beacon organization for nearly 100 years – no one bats a 1000. The work we do combating hate in schools and the communities in which we live is extraordinary, critical and increasingly called upon by law enforcement and public officials. I’m proud to work with and support ADL, though embarrassed we’ve damaged our brand by unintentionally lending cover to zealots’ garbage rhetoric being churned for political advantage
eg., Newt Gingrich said, “Muslims attacked this country and killed almost 3,000 people and now I’m supposed to be tolerant?”
The level of rhetoric further flaming American nationalism disturbs me as much as the Freedom Party of Austria’s efforts to mobilize around voters’ insecurities, fears and prejudice.
our position shortcomings sometimes also include a bias in the Palestinian/Israeli struggle, though that’s another issue
Anne at her Gallery, underneath her painting, Provincetown at Sunset
Community Matters 