‘non-aryan’ Christians Also Forced to Wear Armbands

“Non-Aryan” Christians are among the most pathetic victims of Nazi anti-Semitism in Poland.

In all Polish towns under the German occupation Jews are forced to wear armlets with a blue Star of David, the earlier revocation of this order having been rescinded. “Non-Aryan” Christians must wear a similar armband with a small cross superimposed.

The armbands aggravate the Jewish position since they expose Jews more readily to molestation by both German and Polish Nationalist anti-Semites. While to the majority of Jews the wearing of armbands does not affect their morale, many even displaying a sense of pride in wearing them, the practical injury is immense since the wearers are debarred from even the most miserable means of livelihood, such as street trading.

For “non-Aryan” Christians, however, among whom are many intellectuals, artists, physicians and lawyers, the armlet signifies a great moral humiliation. Hence their present greater representation in the number seeking to escape to Soviet Poland.

In recent weeks there has also been a noticeable increase in the numbers of Jewish women seeking to evade the strong frontier patrols and enter Soviet territory. Hither to the frontier crossing was carried out mostly by men. The influx across the border is great despite the difficulties and the dangers of being caught.

Meanwhile, in the Warsaw ghetto Jews are admitted to only the post office, located on Dziaka Street, to which Christians are denied entry. In Lodz, previously issued passes permitting Jews to enter Piotrowska Street, the main thoroughfare, have been cancelled and the street is entirely barred to Jews for both residence or passage. Christian residents of Jewish-owned houses are forbidden to pay rent to the owners but must pay the municipality instead.