Condemnation of the attempts made from time to time to introduce anti-Semitism into Switzerland was expressed by the Swiss President, Dr. Guiseppe Motta.
Speaking at Lucerne on the occasion of the 600th anniversary of its annexation by Switzerland, he declared that Switzerland was always one of the chief promoters of the ideal of liberty in the world. M. Motta emphasized that in its highest sense democracy implies not only equality of rights, but also brotherhood.
In sharp contrast to the spirit of democracy attempts are being made to introduce laws which aim to reduce the status of some of their own citizens, because of difference in religion, language or origin. The efforts which are occasionally made to raise an anti-Jewish agitation are not only contrary to the spirit of Switzerland, but are also emotional outbursts of overwrought nationalism.
President Motta’s speech created a very deep impression on all those present. It was broadcast from all stations in the country. M. Motta has been Switzerland’s representative at the League of Nations since its creation, and is one of its most respected personalities. He has always shown considerable interest in the question of minorities, for whom he has frequently acted as Rapporteur.
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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.
