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J.D.C. Leader Stresses Uncertainty of Future of No. African Jewry

November 15, 1955
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Plans for an expanded 1956 program to meet the needs of the Jews of North Africa will be presented to the National Emergency Conference of the United Jewish Appeal, which will be held this Friday in New York, it was revealed here today by Moses A. Leavitt, executive vice-chairman of the Joint Distribution Committee, upon his return to the United States from a two-month survey of JDC operations and current needs in Europe and Israel.

“Nobody knows what the future will bring for the Jews of North Africa,” Mr. Leavitt said. “Many will no doubt stay on, many others will no doubt migrate, seeking security and greater opportunity in Israel, France or elsewhere. They cannot make their decisions wisely, however, in the atmosphere of fear and unrest that has prevailed until now.”

Reporting his impression from Israel, Mr. Leavitt said he found the people there “resolute and determined” to continue with the work of construction, despite the obvious dangers that surround them and the tense atmosphere that prevails. “There can be no question regarding the sincerity of Israelis desire for peace with its neighbors,” he stated. “More than anything else they want to carry on their program of building up a country and a democratic way of life for their present citizens and for those who will continue to come. For this they need–above all–peace within their borders, and freedom from fear of aggression from without.”

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