The new system by which Jews will be identified as such by the Visa Division of the State Department was discussed today at the White House when Jacob Blaustein, president of the American Jewish Committee, called on President Truman. Mr. Truman indicated interest in this issue and asked Mr. Blaustein for a memorandum containing additional facts.
(In London, the J.T.A. correspondent was today informed by the American Embassy that applicants for U.S. visas are now required to state their nationality and race. It was explained that this means that Jewish applicants are expected to reply “Jewish” to the question on race. The applicants are also required to give information as to the race of both parents, it was disclosed. This regulation has been enforced for some time, the J.T.A. correspondent established.)
Mr. Blaustein also talked with the President about the adoption of pro-Nazi laws by the Austrian Government and pointed out that many Americans would like to see these laws, which were condemned by the State Department, vetoed by the Allied Council. The President also indicated interest in this problem. Some discussion was also carried on regarding Israel and situations in Germany, Mr. Blaustein said.
JTA has documented Jewish history in real-time for over a century. Keep our journalism strong by joining us in supporting independent, award-winning reporting.
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.