Constructive relief measures for Polish Jewry, involving readjustment to new economic conditions resulting from Government ordinances and organization of a Jewish export trade, were taken up today at a conference of American-Jewish relief leaders and the Jewish Economic Committee of Poland.
The committee comprises representatives of the Jewish Merchants Association, the Jewish Artisans Association, the Small Traders’ Union, the Engineers’ Union and similar bodies.
Members of the committee presented to Dr. Bernhard Kahn and David Schweitzer of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee a detailed picture of its achievements in consolidation and organization of Jewish economic forces.
Describing the situation prevailing among the groups they represented, they submitted recommendations on steps deemed necessary to prevent complete economic collapse of tens of thousands of families.
Factual evidence was offered at the conference that it was possible to adjust artisans to the new conditions and to educate merchants to conform to new measures imposed by the Government.
Proof was adduced, supported by facts and figures, that it was possible to organize export of commodities produced by Jews, to the advantage of Polish Jewry. A recommendation to put the proposal into effect was submitted.
Dr. Kahn, expressing satisfaction at the “practical, solid approach” to their problems exhibited by the organization, predicted an end of the present difficulties “after deciding factors in the Polish nation become convinced that the economic stability of each section of the population is beneficial to the entire country.”
Touching on the export proposals, Dr. Kahn warned against linking the charity spirit with them. He said a solid organization would have to be established in Poland, with a subsidiary abroad, for the conduct of export activities.
“Much needs to be done abroad,” he declared, “for creation of a suitable spirit for the purchase of Jewish-made goods. It is also important that the goods be produced under expert supervision.”
Dr. Kahn cautioned against creating a large, expensive administrative system which the Joint Distribution Committee, as a social institution would not be able to support.
He concluded with the promise, on behalf of the J.D.C., to support all activities which might lead to the strengthening of the Jewish economic position in Poland and to cooperate in that respect with the proper Jewish organizations.
Dr. Kahn’s positive attitude, coupled with the practical suggestions offered at the conference, left a strong impression upon all those present.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
