Nazi Steam Roller Chugs on Toward Cleveland Convention

Speculation is rife in New York with regard to the anticipated attempt to Hitlerize the German American Convention, which meets in Cleveland on June 14. It is understood that Nazis, who are now in control of a number of large Garman American centers throughout the country, will strive to bring to the fold of the swastika all the German American groups of a nation represented at the affair.

It was learned here yesterday that American and anti-Nazi forces have already taken steps to thwart Nazi tactics at the convention. It was stated in authoritative circle that measures have been taken to bar the display of the swastika at the convention.

LUTHER INSISTS ON SWASTIKA

If the swastika should be barred, it will be impossible for the German ambassador to speak at the convention because it is generally recognized that Dr. Hans Luther refuses to address affairs at which both the swastika and national emblems are not flown. Luther’s presence has graced many meetings of the Friends of New Germany and other Nazi groups which might otherwise be considered an American and hence e shunned by well-meaning German Americans.

Furthermore, some doubt prevails as to whether the Nazis will consent to recognized any affair at which the swastika is not flown. It is preposterous at this time to consider the sensitivities of the Nazis so delicate as to prevent their attendance at the significant convention. They would be unwilling to let slip possibilities of making one of the most masterly coups in the history of Nazism. The Nazis have not been overly sensitive in seizing control of the hundreds of German American societies over which they are now masters, and it is highly unlikely they will permit any initial pique to disturb their steam roller profess turning various societies into Hitler-heiling groups designed to carry out the policies of the Nazis government in this country.

LIBERALS WILL BE ABSENT

The German American Convention, the most important function of the year will meet without much of the liberal strength originally ascribed to it. There will be many more delegates from the Friends of New Germany present than were originally expected.

The Nazi capture of the German American Conference here last week is expected to have a significant bearing on the outcome of the German American Convention. The thoroughly American officers of the German American Conference, which controls virtually all New York societies, have been ousted to make room for deep-dyed Nazis. It was expected that the New York delegation would add strength to the convention’s fight to remain American, but with the gleichschaltung of the Conference there remains no doubt but that the support of this largest unit of German American societies will fight bitterly for Nazi principles.

Los Angeles is also conceded to be highly Nazi insofar as the nature of convention delegates is concerned. The Friends of New Germany are said to have captured Southern California’s German American Societies, inclusive of the large German American League. Eastern cities, however, are expected to lend the strongest Nazi support.