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Italian Jews Plan “fair” Visits to Obtain Affidavits for Future Entry

May 1, 1939
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
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Many Italian Jews, it was learned today, are seizing the opportunity provided by the New York World’s Fair to make visits to the United States to obtain affidavits in preparation for future emigration to America. Tourist visas are being granted by the United States consulate to heads of families if reasonable guarantee of their return is provided.

The pressure for emigration is increasing as a result of the Fascist anti-Jewish program. A bill restricting the exercise of professions by Italian citizens of the Jewish race was drawn up at a Cabinet meeting today, according to an official communique. The proposal was presented by Premier Benito Mussolini.

The foreign Jews in Italy, numbering between 3,500 and 4,000, who are under orders to leave, face serious obstacles in emigration because of inability to find countries which will accept them. The American honorary consuls in Italy are powerless to issue visas to them. More than 2,000 of the foreign Jews have filed applications with the Government for prolongation of their stay. No general reply has been received, which is taken as unofficial extension of their stay.

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