There is no prescription for the struggle against hatred. Sometimes, the issues themselves are complicated and difficult to perceive sharply. Other times, an issue is clearly good or evil ­ such as the Holocaust ­ but the consequences of that are hard to discern.

There are times when ADL must act immediately to expose haters ­ by issuing statements, testimony and reports. But often our work is circumspect, involving long-term education, interfaith dialogue, ongoing relationships with community and government leaders.

We are a Jewish organization. But we dedicate ourselves to securing "justice and fair treatment to all citizens alike," believing that civil liberties are at the heart of democracy for minorities. Yet it is not enough to protect people's civil rights. We must be proactive and go after the haters in the world by working within the legislative and judicial system and side by side with law enforcement officials.

Our view is panoramic. We do not simply issue public statements from our National Headquarters. We work assiduously at the grass-roots level to identify and implement responsible, credible, ongoing action against hate.

The Anti-Defamation League is clear-sighted and serious about our commitment. We are highly visible and sharply focused. We keep a close eye on the past as well as the present, but our vision is the future.