Foxman receives highest French honor
Anti-Defamation League's Abe Foxman receives prestigious French honor from President Chirac for achievements in combating anti-Semitism and hatred around world. Chirac: Your life and contribution to peace - exceptional
Abe Foxman, National Director of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) received the French Legion of Honor from French President Jacques Chirac in a ceremony held at the Elysee Palace in Paris on Monday.
A statement released by the Anti Defamation league says that the award, the highest military and civilian honor given in France, "was given to Foxman for his lifelong service to combating anti-Semitism and prejudice, and for working to build bridges and understanding among nations and people."
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During the ceremony, President Chirac said that Foxman received this honor due to his commitment to the service of mutual human understanding. He also noted that throughout his life, Foxman had championed three major causes which include the battle against anti-Semitism, promoting dialogue among nations, and remembering the Holocaust.
President Chirac also spoke about the connection between Foxman's actions and values and both the French government and the French people. “Your life and your contribution to peace among men are exceptional. Today, France expresses its esteem and gratitude to you,” Chirac said.
During his acceptance speech, Foxman thanked President Chirac and the French people for their "strength, moral courage and friendship to the Jewish state and people."
Foxman also referred to his childhood as a Holocaust survivor and the way these experiences shaped his adult life and the mission he chose for his long carreer. "Why did I survive and 1.5 million children perish? Why am I here? I don’t have an answer but I believe that maybe it is to have the privilege and opportunity every day to stand up -- in every way possible -- to hate, bigotry and anti-Semitism,” said Foxman. “If I did not use that right to build respect and fight hatred, then my survival would have been meaningless.”
President Chirac also referred to the current state of anti-Semitism around the world saying that "today, hatred of others is spreading like a poison in the heart of our societies and across our borders." Chirac said, "We must remain vigilant and fight tirelessly against the resurgence of this horrible beast."
Chirac added that France had responded to anti-Semitism with tougher laws but insisted that they cannot let their guard down on that grave issue.
According to figures released by the French Interior Ministry, in 2005, anti-Semitic crimes in France were down 48 percent compared to the previous year.
AP contributed to this report
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