New York, NY, February 15, 2006 …The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) is calling on policymakers to reform our current immigration system in a comprehensive manner that will serve America's security, humanitarian and economic interests.  The League passed a resolution to that effect at its recent National Executive Committee Meeting in Palm Beach, Florida.

"As a community that has suffered the consequences of a restrictive immigration policy, we are committed to ensuring that America's immigration policy is fair, humane, and serves our nation's interests," said Barbara B. Balser, ADL National Chair, and Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director.

The ADL leaders stressed that, "the tenor and outcome of our national debate over the fate of undocumented persons in the U.S. will speak volumes about how America welcomes and embraces foreigners from many lands who come here seeking refuge and opportunity."

Following the resolution's passage, ADL joined other Jewish organizations in a letter calling on Senators to adopt an immigration reform package that addresses the reality of the large population of undocumented workers living in our communities who currently lack meaningful rights under our law and are subject to exploitation.
The letter notes, "As leaders of Jewish community organizations, we look both to the teachings of our Jewish religious and ethical tradition, and to core American values relating to immigrants, for guidance on immigration reform. They call on us to 'welcome the stranger' and provide an effective legal immigration system characterized by rule of law, national interest and compassionate treatment."

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.