The national commander of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States disclosed today that the number of Negro ex-servicemen seeking assistance from his organization in veterans’ matters has increased by more than 100 percent in the past year. According to Charles Feuereisen, “This does not indicate a national wave of anti-Semitism among Negroes, especially among the young men returning from Vietnam.”
The commander said JWV service officers in New York, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Boston, Pittsburgh and elsewhere have “met hundreds of earnest young Negroes seeking veterans rights for education, housing, insurance…as provided for under the G.I. Bill.” He said that Negroes lack veterans service organizations and feel comfortable in accepting Jewish assistance. “There might be some local antagonisms, perhaps in areas of New York City, but our evidence does not indicate a national pattern of anti-Jewish alienation in the black community.” Mr. Feuereisen said.
Help ensure Jewish news remains accessible to all. Your donation to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency powers the trusted journalism that has connected Jewish communities worldwide for more than 100 years. With your help, JTA can continue to deliver vital news and insights. Donate today.
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.
