New York, NY, December 8, 2006 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today mourned the passing of former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Jeane J. Kirkpatrick, an American heroine who championed the values of freedom and liberty, a staunch supporter of the State of Israel, and a true friend of the Jewish community.

Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director, issued the following statement:

Jeane Kirkpatrick was truly an American heroine.  She bravely championed the values of freedom and liberty in the face of tyrants and fanatics.  She will be fondly remembered for her unwavering and valiant support of the State of Israel and her unequivocal opposition to anti-Semitism, especially during her tenure at the United Nations.  She was always a true friend of the Jewish people.

Jeane never pulled punches when it came to the unfair treatment of Israel at the United Nations and was always eager to point out the double standards, hostility and politically motivated condemnations of the Jewish State, particularly by the Arab States and the former Soviet Union.  As a diplomat and scholar in international affairs, she always emphasized the need for seriousness, credibility and consistency in U.S. foreign policy.  Her courageous outspokenness, her warmth, and her intelligence will be greatly missed.

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.