New York, NY, November 2, 2009 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) honored Polish businessman Aleksander Gudzowaty in recognition of his outstanding leadership in promoting tolerance and respect.

During a special presentation at the League's Annual Meeting in New York City, Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, presented Mr. Gudzowaty with a specially crafted Jewish tzedakah box.  

"It is one thing to have vision – it's quite another to implement it," said Mr. Foxman in making the presentation.  "Aleksander Gudzowaty is a man of the world concerned about how he can help make it a better place for all peoples."

Mr. Gudzowaty spoke of the importance of standing up for respect and speaking out against intolerance.

"Let us mobilize ourselves to get a different focus on the world problems and the counteracting of evil," Mr. Gudzowaty said.  "Let us respect people who fight for that cause.  The Anti-Defamation League, its management, are the best evidence that it is possible to fight evil."

In 2006, Mr. Gudzowaty conceived and constructed the Tolerance Monument and Park on a hill in Jerusalem.  The monument is a beacon of respect visible to the people of many faiths that visit the holy city. 

"Aleksander's vision is to replicate this beacon of tolerance and respect in many cities across the globe, thereby uniting them with Jerusalem in the commitment to teach, promote and practice respect," Mr. Foxman added.  "We hope to partner with Aleksander in this mission in the years to come."

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.