Ofrra Investigates Mistreatment of Jewish Refugees in Polish Camp in Mexico

The Office of Foreign Relief in Washington is now studying the situation in the camp for Polish refugees at Santa Rosa, Mexico, where Jewish refugees from Poland have been reported mistreated, it was learned here today from the text of a letter addressed by Congressman Emanuel Celler to Leo Crowley, head of the Foreign Economic Administration in Washington.

“The Polish Government,” the letter reads, “in agreement with Mexico has established a camp for Polish refugees in the ex-Hacienda Santa Rosa, not far from the city of Leon, Mexico. The establishment of the camp was made possible through the funds administered by the Office of Foreign Relief and Rehabilitation Operations, then under Governor Lehman. Our interest, therefore, aside from any humanitarian impulse, is entirely evident.

“Reports of authentic nature have come to us indicating that the twenty-seven Jews in the colony have been subjected to vicious anti-Semitic attacks, humiliations, and threats of violence. I know that the Office of Foreign Relief, now under your jurisdiction, is aware of what is happening at the camp. I am sure that this deplorable situation will not be dismissed by that Office, and I have every confidence that it will be well handled. I understand that strong representations have been made to the Polish Deputy Premier and that the root of the trouble will be reached in your investigations. I am likewise informed by the Office of Foreign Relief that the source of the difficulty is twelve or fifteen criminals among the colonists who have instigated and led the attacks against the Jews. I most sincerely trust that your study of the situation will produce the desired results.”