New York, NY, April 20, 2001…The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today said that the comments about Jews attributed to New York Knicks players Charlie Ward and Allan Houston, in an article in the New York Times Magazine (April 22) constitute religious bigotry. In blaming the death of Jesus on the Jews and accusing Jews of persecuting Christians, they have revived the historic myths which have been the source of anti-Semitism for centuries, and which have been rejected by Christian leadership and scholars over the last 50 years. Unfortunately, Mr. Ward’s explanation of his comments shows that he just "doesn’t get it."

Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, issued the following statement

We were shocked to read the comments of N.Y. Knicks players Charlie Ward and Allan Houston blaming the death of Jesus on Jews and accusing Jews of persecuting Christians. We had thought these destructive historic myths, which have been a source of anti-Semitism for centuries, were a thing of the past.

However, we see that there are many good people who still hold these beliefs. In his attempt to clarify his comments, it is clear that Mr. Ward just doesn’t get it. Sadly, he doesn’t understand the impact of his comments and that they constitute anti-Semitism and religious bigotry. This incident underscores the need for much more work to be done in interfaith dialogue to achieve greater understanding, tolerance and respect.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world's leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.