My thoughts on the recent developments in the ADL

I have disagreed with the ADL, and particularly Abe Foxman, on many issues over the years. Most of these issues have been issues on which Foxman and/or the ADL seek out prejudice and defamation in instances where I feel none exists. In general, Foxman and the ADL are that most sensitive spot on the body of the Jewish people that acts up with the same ferocity for the slightest provocation or lack thereof as it does when beaten with a two-by-four.

Although I have felt that the ADL should calm down on numerous occasions, and remember them being on the useless side of things a lot, I cannot remember thinking that the ADL and Foxman were just plain wrong about something as much as I think that they are on the issue of the mosque and Islamic center which is being built near Ground Zero in NYC. I understand suggesting a voluntary relocation of the center based on controversy avoidance, but assuming that Muslims seeking a place to pray and a multifaith community center are defaming the families of 9/11 victims, many of whom support the center, reaks of Islamaphobia. While I used to regard the ADL as the harmless knight that no one needed around anymore, it seems as though Foxman has turned it into an anti-Muslim political machine.

I personally am embarrassed by the stand that the ADL has taken on this issue. That said, the ADL does not speak for all Jews, and certainly does not speak for me on this issue. I hope that the ADL reconsiders its position, but I fear that that is not likely. I urge people who support (legally, ideologically, or on both fronts) the construction of the center to speak out, and was impressed with the remarks of Mayor Bloomberg. Furthermore, I fear that the ADL will lose any credibility it still has as a watchdog for hatred, as it seems to be engaged in the behavior of hate.