Jerusalem, August 3, 2009 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today condemned the violent attack on a Tel Aviv center for gay and lesbian youth, which killed two and wounded fifteen.  This apparent hate crime targeted people from the LGBT community and their friends who were gathered for a weekly support group.

ADL's Israel Office issued the following statement:

We condemn this heinous attack on the Tel Aviv Gay and Lesbian Center and share the urgency of Israel's government leaders and law enforcement to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrator. 

Since bias-motivated crimes have a unique impact on victims and their communities, a vigorous investigation to determine the motivation behind the attack will be vital to alleviating fear and a sense of vulnerability among the gay and lesbian community – and to send an important message about the seriousness of this attack.

The LGBT community is an integral part of the diverse and pluralistic society in Israel and is active, involved and vocal in helping to shape Israeli democracy.  We join with Israel's leadership in urging that this attack spur reflection and education on combating homophobia and other biases.

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.