Jerusalem, August 25, 2004...The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) is appalled at the recent statements made by Carmi Gillon, Mayor of Mevasseret Zion, regarding new immigrants from Ethiopia who live in the absorption center in the Jerusalem suburb.

Mayor Gillon has publicly called for the removal of the center located in Mevasseret Zion and complained about the behavior of the Ethiopian residents as a group.

ADL's Israel office issued the following statement:

We are appalled at Mayor Carmi Gillon's inappropriate and prejudicial remarks.  Absorbing immigrants is one of Israel's greatest strengths and biggest challenges.  While we acknowledge the social problems that occur during the absorption process, they need to be dealt with professionally and with tact.  Mayor Gillon's rash accusations needlessly perpetuate negative stereotypes and is contrary to the high value Israel places on immigration.          

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.