Role of U.S. Jewry in America’s Development Lauded by Truman in Message to U.A.H.C.

The role which American Jewry has played in the development of the United States was emphasized by President Truman in a message to the 75th anniversary convention of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, which will formally open here on Sunday, with about 1,000 delegates from all sections of the country in attendance.

Paying tribute to the vision of Dr. Isaac M. Wise, the founder of the U.A.H.C., President Truman said: “American Jewry, like all other segments of the American population, has played its important role in the growth and development of this great country of ours. I am happy through you to convey my congratulations and best wishes to the delegates attending your convention, the representatives of a large and influential section of American Jewry.”

Calling the commemoration of the founding of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations “a happy event for all Americans, be they Christian or Jew,” the President stated: “No one, I am sure, will dispute the fact that the American formula of religious liberty and freedom for persons of all faiths has been a contributing factor in the development of the American way of life that we call democracy. Separation of Church and State on the one hand, and the encouragement and support of religious organizations by individuals on the other hand, has successfully answered the problem that in other countries, and in other times, has plagued humanity. Strong voluntary religious organizations, such as the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, are a distinctive aspect of American life.”