Problems of Jewish education and those of the fight against assimilation were the principal topics discussed at the first All-Chilean Jewish Congress, held here recently.
One hundred and sixty delegates were pesent, ninety of them chosen by direct ballot and the rest sent as representatives of the various Jewish institutions in Chile. Circulo Israelita, oldest Jewish group in the country ,was represented by only two delegates, neither of whom committed the Circulo to any of the decisions adopted by he congress, except provisionally.
After considerable debate, two committees were elected, one to fight assimilation and the other to prepare educational projects. Resolutions emphasizing the need of national areas such as Palestine and of rehabilitation of the Jewish masses in the countries where they now are were also adopted.
Support of the coming Jewish World Congress was expressed by the delegates. Because of the cost involved, however, Chile will not be represented at that gathering. In stead, a complete report on Chilean Jewry and the immigration possibilities of the land will be sent to the world conclave. Plans for the creation of a permanent body to represent the whole Jewish community of Chile were also initiated.
The general press and press agencies followed the congress activities closely.
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