Washington, DC, October 25, 2007 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) strongly condemned the reported incident in which a noose was hung on a tree at a residence in Haymarket, Virginia. The owners of the home believe themselves to be the only African-American family in the neighborhood.

"A noose hanging from a tree, like a burning cross, is a recognized symbol of hatred and intolerance, and it must be investigated as such," said Rachel Werner, ADL Assistant Regional Director. "We call on the Prince William County Police Department to investigate this matter thoroughly."

Hate crime statutes have been adopted by 45 states.  Many of those laws are based on a model statute crafted by ADL, which has long been in the forefront of national and state efforts to deter and counteract hate-motivated criminal activity.

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.