Chicago, IL, June 27, 2011 ... In response to the reported vandalism of the Gay Pride Parade floats in the early morning hours preceding Chicago's annual celebration, the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today condemned the possibly hate-motivated desecration of the floats, and applauded the Chicago Police Department for investigating these incidents as potential hate crimes. 

According to reports, tires of 51 of 73 registered floats were slashed late Saturday or early Sunday in their storage location. 

"The Anti-Defamation League deplores these incidents, which may have been motivated by the perpetrators' animus and bias against the gay community," said Lonnie Nasatir, ADL Greater Chicago/Upper Midwest Regional Director.  "We commend the quick and responsive work of the Chicago Police Department and strongly support its ongoing commitment to fully investigate potential hate crimes."

ADL will continue to work with law enforcement, city leaders, religious and civil rights groups, academic institutions and others to address hate and discrimination through prevention, response, and restoration.

This is the second year that ADL has participated in the Gay Pride Parade. For over 13 years, ADL  led the charge for the passage of the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crime Prevention Act. The passage of this bill is a direct result of ADL's leadership and advocacy.

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.