Edward H. Hunter’s Industrial Defense League, Inc., leading anti-Semitic organization, has been dissolved as a result of bill passed by the State Legislature. The bill, introduced by former Senator Sybil H. Holmes, was enacted by both houses and signed by Governor Leverett Saltenstall.
A hearing sponsored at the State House brought out testimony that for many years the Industrial Defense League had been promoting race hatred. Spokesmen for the Better Business Bureau and the Boston Chamber of Commerce addressed the investigating committee in favor of the bill.
In 1938, the League was included among alleged subversive organizations investigated by a special state commission. Holmes, chairman of the committee, reported the League “has been a consistent importer of subversive pamphlets from foreign sources for distribution in this Commonwealth.”
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.
