Local Nazi sympathizers were left in the cold when the Federation of German Societies held its annual “German Day” celebration here yesterday.
Scores of German organizations participated, but not a single pro-Hitler group was admitted. Neither the Friends of New Germany, the local Stahlhelm unit, nor the German Legion of Honor, took part.
“German Day,” biggest event of the year for Milwaukee’s German population, drew thousands to its picnic and parade. Among the speakers were Governor Schmedeman and Mayor Hoan. No pro-Nazi spoke, nor even occupied a position on any arrangements committee.
This is seen as another sign of the rapid disintegration of local Hitlerite organizations. Their following is falling away. Reputable Germans ignore them. And to united German activities, such as “German Day,” they are not even invited.
Whereas in other cities Nazi supporters captured control of “German Day” affairs, here socialists and non-political Germans predominated. Two of the principal speakers at the celebration—Mayor Hoan and Heinrich Bartel, editor, are socialists.
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