Fascist Propaganda Causes Anti-jewish Feeling in Tunis

(Jewish Telegraphic Agency)

In contrast to the friendly declarations made to the Jewishish population of Tripoli by Mussolini during his recent visit there, the Fascisti press in Rome is now conducting a vigorous campaign against the Italian Jews of Tunis which has had its repercussions here.

The Italian Jews of Tunis are accused of being Freemasons and anti-Fascists and of opposing Fascisti propaganda in Tunis. The only Italian daily in Tunis, the “Unione” is reprinting these attacks on the Tunis Jews and is conducting a violent anti-Jewish campaign. As a result a number of incidents have taken place.

Actually, the Tunis Jews are entirely neutral in regard to Fascisti propaganda, being divided among themselves on the question and taking no part as Jews either for or against. In consequence of the situation which has developed, nine Jewish members of the Italian Chamber of Commerce here, including the President, who has held the office for the past fifteen years, and six non-Jewish members have resigned from the Chamber in protest. It is pointed out that all the Italian Jews in Tunis are loyal Italian subjects and took part in the great war, fighting for the Italian Army, many of them distinguishing themselves in battle and winning war decorations. Many Tunis Jews were killed and wounded and a number have been received in audience by the King in Rome and awarded the Royal Order of the Crown of Italy in recognition of their loyal services on behalf of Italy in Tunisia.

In consequence of a violent attack on the Jews made in an article in the “Unionee,” the writer of the article was challenged to a duel by the son of the ex-President of the Italian Chamber of Commerce. The journalist, however, apologized and withdrew his allegations.

Signor Salvatore Carlo, the new President of the Italian Chamber of Commerce, and the President of the proceeded to Rome to draw the attention of the government to the situation.

The Executive Committee of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America tendered a lunchein in honor of three of its members, Dr. Bernard Drachman, Dr. David de Sola Pool, who are leaving for Palestine, and Mr. Morris Engelman, who is leaving for Europe. The luncheon was held yesterday at the Broadway Central Hotel.

The Hebrew School society of Meriden. Conn., met for the purpose of devising ways and means of inaugurating a free school system into the present Hebrew school. A committee of twelve was chosen to work out a plan.

At present there are fifty pupils who attend the Hebrew school in Meriden and tuition for these pupils is paid by their parents and by voluntary contributions. It is the desire of the society to have the school supported by the Jewish community at large and not by the parents alone.