After a brief respite, Italian Jews are again being subjected to further anti-Semitic measures. Although no new decrees have been passed and none are in view, more elaborate interpretations of those in effect now are being enforced with a view to effecting further restrictions against the Jews, particularly in the economic field.
To circumvent the lack of specific decrees aimed at elimination of certain Jewish businesses, the Italian police authorities are refusing to renew the licenses of Jewish enterprises frequented by the police and consequently requiring police supervision.
Establishments thus affected include coffee houses, wine shops, bars, restaurants, tobacco shops and billiard parlors. When such places are unable to obtain police authorization for the public to congregate on their premises, they are automatically forced out of business. Jewish jewelry shops are also being compelled to cease operations inasmuch as they, too, require special police authorization in Italy.
Although the anti-Jewish measures ostensibly are taken by the police, it is believed that the original orders emanate from the Ministry of the Interior. It is also believed that other Jewish businesses in Italy will shortly be eliminated by similar methods.
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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.
