New York, New York, September 2, 1999 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today urged President Clinton to maintain his strong stance against terrorism, cautioning that the administration’s offer to pardon members of the violent Puerto Rican nationalist group, the Armed Forces of National Liberation, or FALN, runs contrary to national policy and interests.

In a letter to President Clinton, the League stated that any decision granting clemency to 16 members of the group would undermine the administration’s long-held commitment to deal strongly with terrorists and to pursue justice for their victims.

"The Anti-Defamation League has been vigorously engaged in mobilizing public support for strong U.S. action to reduce the capability of and support for terrorists," said Howard P. Berkowitz, ADL National Chairman, and Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. "Freeing the FALN members would run contrary to that commitment and undermine our ability to deter would-be perpetrators. We urge you to maintain your strong stance and refrain from taking any action that could cast doubt on America’s vigilance against terrorism."

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.