The Polytechnic Institute of Vienna is charged by the “Arbeiter Zeitung” with seeking to introduce the yellow badge, symbol of compulsory ghetto days, for Jewish students.
The paper alleges that the authorities of the Institute have introduced special registration cards with the yellow badge to identify Jewish students. Different certificates to differentiate the Aryan students will be issued, the paper further charges. The distinctive registration cards are being issued for the purpose of identifying the Aryan students in the event of renewed disturbances, the paper asserts.
The rector of the Polytechnic Institute denies the allegation. The rectorate explains that new registration cards are being issued for all students. It may be that quite accidentally the Jewish students received the first cards of the new series, the rectorate says.
The Minister of Education also expressed doubt as to the correctness of the allegation, explaining that a special mark to distinguish Jewish students would be open infringement of equal rights guaranteed to all citizens of the country.
The Jewish Community of Vienna is preparing to take vigorous action should the charges be authenticated.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
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.
