New York, NY, November 5, 1999 … The Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) Boston Regional Director Has Been Named To The Papal Order Of Saint Gregory, One Of Several Orders Conferred By The Vatican For "Outstanding Services Rendered To The Welfare Of Society And The Church."

Leonard Zakim, Who Has Served ADL For More Than Two Decades, Was Named A Knight Of St. Gregory In Recognition Of His Career Commitment To Fighting Anti-Semitism, Racism And Bigotry. The Honor Was Presented In Rome At A Ceremony With Pope John Paul II. The Ceremony Took Place At The Vatican On November 3^rd.

"We Are Honored To Have Such A High Distinction Bestowed Upon One Of Our Professional Leaders For His Work In Combating Anti-Semitism And Promoting The Catholic-Jewish Relationship," Said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. "Lenny Zakim Has Remained One Of The Strongest Advocates Of Our Efforts To Promote Diversity And To Encourage Interreligious Dialogue."

The Order Of St. Gregory The Great Is One Of Several Pontifical Orders Of The Knighthood Conferred By The Papal Court On Laymen. According To The Vatican, The Order Is Among Those That May Be Granted By The Pope On His Own Initiative, Or On The Basis Of Presentation Of Worthy Candidates To The Vatican Secretariat Of State By The Diocesan Bishop Of The Candidate.

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.