My Discussion with Abe Foxman (the National Director of the Anti-Defamation League) - by Sydney Altschul (10th grade)

Last night, I had the pleasure of attending an intimate discussion led by the National Director of The Anti-Defamation League, Abraham H. Foxman. Before breifly touching upon what we discussed last night, I would like to start off saying what a kind, strong-minded, warm man he truly is.

Over dessert, I explained to Mr. Foxman the ADL program and No Place for Hate Club at Claire and Emanuel G. Rosenblatt High School. After hearing about our successful start, he was very impressed with all that we have accomplished - especially the fact that we reached over 400 likes on our Facebook page after only a few weeks of promotion. He encouraged us to continue in the pursuit of our goals and never give up on this mission. This raised the question of how to assess the impact of these programs in high schools and colleges around the world. Mr. Foxman stated that this is an operation in which it is hard to tell the impact or results we are getting. He says that he can do everything he is doing now, educating students, teachers, and parents, but it is what they do with that information that measures our success. He concluded this "question" by stating that if he and the rest of the ADL hadn't been doing what they are doing, "things would probably be a lot worse". In hearing this, I was reminded how truly amazing this organization is, why I love and support it, and what a difference we are creating in making this world a better place for ourselves, and for future generations.

This year marks Mr. Foxman's 50th anniversary working for the ADL, and he has announced his retirement for July. He will be remembered forever for his selfless effort to create peace in the world for all. I, along with the rest of  "peace-seekers," are and will be forever grateful for everything he has done. He is not afraid to stand up and speak his mind which is something we all should aspire to do.