I. O. B. Head Finds Jewish Position in Europe Better

(Jewish Telegraphic Agency)

The position of the Jewish communities in European countries is improved greatly in recent years. according to Alfred M. Cohen. Cincinnati Jewish philanthropist and international President of the Independent Order B’nai Brith, which has a large membership in the United States, Europe and Asia.

Mr. Cohen, who sailed for New York Saturday on the S.S. Hamburg, is returning to the United States after an extended visit to England, Germany. Czechoslovakia. Switzerland, Belgium and Holland, where he studied the conditions of the Jewish communities, and particularly of the lodges affiliated with the B’nai Brith.

The President of the B’nai Brith stated that everywhere he found the lodges of the B’nai Brith in fine condition, excellently manned, with a loyal membership carrying on manifold philanthropic activities. including the maintenance of children’s homes, hospitals and welfare and educational agencies. Many lodges, particularly in Germany, have magnificent homes of their own. The membership of the B’nai Brith lodges in Europe reaches 25,000, he stated.

In an address delivered before B’nai Brith lodges and orther Jewish andiences. Mr. Gohen explained to European Jewry the methods applied by American Jews in their fight against defamation. “Our method of combating prejudice and defamation by spreading correct information about Jews and Jewish life was appreciated by the Jews in Europe. Upon arriving in Prague the news reached us of Hanry Ford’s recantation. This event made a great impression in Europe because it was a voluntary act, although it was rather belated. His startling action will no doubt affect adversely the anti-Semitic movement in Europe.” Mr. Cohen stated.

“From everything that I saw, my conclusion is that the Jewish position in Europe has much improved since the establishment of Republican governments, especially in Germany. It is not true that everyone in Germany wants the return of the old order. The Jews there are certainly Republican,” Mr. Cohen declared.

“In the internal life of the Jewish communities in Europe. tremendous changes are taking place. One observation is of particular interest, and that is that the number of intermarlages is decreasing. The position of the Jews in England is exceptionally satisfactory. The Jews in England are enjoying not only political equality, but are socially recognized.

“I am happy to say that the bond between American and European Jewry is a closer and heartter one now than it was before. Remembering the feeling of European Jews with regard to American Jews, and the high hopes placed upon us by our brethren in Europe, I am returning home to continue the work of the B’nai B’rith with more energy and greater pride in the work of the Order,” the President and the I. O. B. B. stated.