Bipartisan leaders sign civility pledge

The leaders of Jewish Democratic and Republican groups this week signed a pledge of civility initiated by the Anti-Defamation League.

Ira Forman, head of the National Jewish Democratic Council, and Matt Brooks, Republican Jewish Coalition director, signed the pledge, which says:

“Let our debate on the issues of the moment be thoughtful and reasoned. Let us look to our elected leaders for leadership, whether or not we support their policies. Let all of us, across the political spectrum, encourage advocacy that is vigorous; pointed but not personal or hostile.”

The ADL called on other political and elected leaders to sign it.

“Regardless of whether the issue is health care, immigration, bailouts or the budget, we need to rise above the hateful rhetoric and to encourage advocacy that is vigorous but never personal or hostile,” Abraham Foxman, ADL’s national head, said. “It is time for our elected leaders to show true leadership, to stand up and to be the first to reject the appeals to bigotry, racism, prejudice and calls to violence.” — jta