Spurred by survey disclosures that Italian Jewish youth either ignore or have false ideas about fascism, Italian Jewish leaders acted today to intensify education for democracy. A group called “Young Friends of the Resistance” against fascism was formed here with the participation of several student and youth organizations, including the Milan Jewish Center.
Andre Donati, an Italian Jewish leader, spoke at the first meeting of the group, discussing problems of common interest from a Jewish viewpoint. He said it was obvious that the youngsters who called themselves Fascists and who painted swastikas on walls would not be found in Jewish schools.
“However, the anti-fascist sentiments are often too vague and are only determined by the fact that we have been victims of persecution,” he said. “The task of Jewish educators consists of shaping these feelings into rational ideas, based on the principles which inspired those who fought for freedom and democracy against fascism. “
He suggested that the Bible and Jewish traditions contained notable examples “of freedom of the spirit and the dignity of the human personality. “
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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.
