New York, NY, August 22, 2006 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) applauded the leaders of the United Church of Canada for rejecting companies doing business with governments or organizations that fail to recognize Israel. The Church's General Council rejected an anti-Israel divestment resolution, and instead approved a strategy of positive investment in the region.

In a letter to newly elected UCC Moderator, the Right Rev. David Giuliano and Past Moderator the Very Rev. Peter Short, ADL National Director, Abraham H. Foxman said:

We applaud the unprecedented decision by the United Church of Canada's General Council. In adopting its ethical investment resolution, the UCC rejected a one-sided anti-Israel divestment resolution and showed that it understands that one of the primary reasons for the problems in the Middle East stems from the refusal to recognize Israel's right to exist.

 

We hope that UCC leaders will share their vision with sister churches and affiliated churches around the world in pursuing a real peace between Israel and her neighbors that provides safety and security and prosperity for all the peace-loving peoples in the region.

The church voted not to invest in companies doing business with governments or organizations that fail to recognize Israel's legitimate rights, including its right to exist as a Jewish state. The resolution proposes investment in a $1 million fund to support projects, initiatives and groups of any faith working for peace in the region.

The United Church is Canada's largest Protestant denomination, with close to three million Canadians.