New York, NY, November 21, 2005 … Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of L'Oréal was honored with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) 2005 International Leadership Award in recognition of his contributions throughout his career to community leadership, equal opportunity, and commitment to diversity, both within L'Oreal and in such areas as promoting the role of women in science. The presentation was made at a gala dinner on November 14 in New York City.

In presenting the award, Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, said, "Sir Lindsay has taken his vision and put it into practice, making L'Oréal not just the leading cosmetic company in the world, but a leader in promoting diversity and respect for culture and identity setting standards to be emulated.  L'Oréal and ADL have a shared vision of celebrating 'A Planet of Diverse Beauty.' We are pleased, proud and privileged to present ADL's International Leadership Award to Sir Lindsay Owen-Jones."

In his keynote address, Nobel Peace Laureate Elie Wiesel spoke eloquently of the need for people to not only speak up but to demonstrate in deeds how to make our world more humane.  He cited Sir Lindsay as a prime example of someone who has done just that; someone whose humanity is translated everyday into the operations of his multi-national corporation.

Also honoring Sir Lindsay before the more than 500 dinner guests were Maurice Levy, Chairman and CEO, Publicis and Eugene Kummel, Chairman Emeritus, McCann Erickson.

Larry King, host of CNN's Larry King Live served as Master of Ceremonies. The Harlem Boys Choir performed several musical selections.

Internationally renowned artist Yaacov Agam created an original artwork for the invitation and tribute journal using the rainbow as the universal symbol of beauty and hope to foster peace and tolerance for all.

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.