New York, NY, May 27, 2008 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today called on the Italian government to "publicly condemn xenophobia against Roma," following recent violence targeting the Roma community in Italy.

"We urge the Italian government to publicly condemn xenophobia against Roma and the anti-Roma rhetoric that fosters an atmosphere in which attacks like those in Milan and Naples can be possible," said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director.  "Italy's vibrant democracy will be strengthened by a clear message from the government that it is committed to protecting its Roma residents and all victims of hate violence."

In a letter to His Excellency Roberto Maroni, Italian Minister of Interior, Mr. Foxman noted that all countries share the common challenge of crafting a fair and workable immigration system while ensuring humane treatment of immigrants, adding: "Failure to speak out in this way could send the terribly wrong message to the entire community that perpetrators of xenophobic violence can act with impunity in Italy."

ADL, which has developed a variety of anti-bias education programs that sensitize law enforcement, civil society, youth and others, said it would welcome the opportunity to share these programs with the Italian government.  The League has spoken out in the United States against the demonization and stereotyping of immigrants as part of America's public debate on reforming its own immigration system.

Earlier this month in Naples, angry residents burned down two Roma camps after allegations that a Roma teenager attempted to kidnap an Italian baby.  Italian authorities have also recently implemented a security crackdown on street crime and illegal immigration, and are considering tougher immigration policies.