A statement differentiating between the status-of Algerian Jews and European elements in Algeria was issued today in a denial of anti-Semitism by the representative here of the Algerian Front of National Liberation.
A. Chanderli, permanent representative of the Algerian revolutionists, said: “With regard to Algerian Jews, we consider that they constitute a category completely distinct from the European element. The Algerian Jews are not colonial invaders. “
“On the contrary, ” said the Algerian nationalist spokesman,”the 150, 000 persons of Jewish faith in Algeria are historically among the earliest inhabitants of the country. During the years of colonial rule, Jews as well as Arabs, being indigenous to Algeria, have been subject to the disdain of the European colonists. During World War II, with pro-Vichy French elements in control of Algeria, they were subject to special discriminatory legislation, humiliations, etc., in accord with the anti-Semitic policies of the governmental authorities.”
On the issue of whether Algeria’s Jews were French nationals, “since 1871 by means of a French Government decree, ” Mr. Chanderli said, “The Algerian Jews are in reality-Algerians–by their history, their language, their traditions. They are not foreign colonizers who have come to our land. Algeria is their country and homeland as it is the homeland of Moslem Algerians. “
“The very first proclamation of the Algerian Front of National Liberation in Nov., 1954, defined as the primary aim of the revolution the restoration of an independent, democratic Algerian state in which fundamental liberties shall be guaranteed to all, with no distinction based on race, creed or religion, ” Mr. Chanderli continued. “The first policy statement of the provisional government of the Algerian republic, on Sept. 26, 1958, again made clear that Algeria, freed of colonialists, will have neither first nor second class citizens and will make no distinction due to race or religion among those who wish to remain Algerian.”
The statement by Mr. Chanderli referred to the choice that will be given to “Europeans of Algeria” to either opt for Algerian citizenship or to be considered foreigners. However, the Algerian leader stressed that Algerian Jews are Algerians, completely distinct “from the European element. ” This was interpreted here by some to indicate that Jews in Algeria might not be considered French citizens under an Algerian Nationalist regime despite the Cremieux Decree issued by the French Government in 1871, and thus given no option to leave the country when Algeria gains independence.
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