New York, NY, January 15, 2009 … Heeding the call of President-elect Barack Obama to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a day devoted to community service, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) will be urging individuals, families and communities to make a personal commitment to combat prejudice.

By taking the ADL Pledge To Combat Prejudice, Americans across the country will agree to stand up and be heard, and to help shape a vision of American where all people "will not be judged by the color of the skin, but by the content of their character". 

The Pledge, which will be featured as part of the Presidential Inaugural Committee's campaign to Renew America Together, will be distributed at community events across the country, through the League's 30 regional offices, and online, where it may be signed or downloaded at www.adl.org/service.

Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, issued the following statement:

As America celebrates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., we heed the call of President-elect Barack Obama to join in his effort to renew our commitment to public service and to take a stand in our communities against racism, bigotry and prejudice.

While we haven't eliminated all of the vestiges of racism in America, the ascension of an African-American to the highest office in the land is a tremendous stride forward and a fitting tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. King.

In the battle against bigotry, we know that one person can make a difference.  As millions of Americans join together in building stronger communities and a brighter future for our nation, it is our hope that many will be inspired to make a personal commitment to combat racism and prejudice in their own lives and in their communities.