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Safeguard Democratic Principles in Any Anti-fifth Column Program, Parley Urges

June 24, 1940
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A plea to the legislative and executive branches of the Federal Government and to American public opinion to safeguard “the fundamental texture of democracy” in any program of action against the fifth column was sounded to day at a conference of presidents of synagogues, fraternal lodges and welfare agencies, held under the auspices of the Hebrew Sheltering and Immigrant Aid Society (HIAS).

The conference adopted a resolution expressing “wholehearted approval” of all legal measures necessary “for the protection of the interests of the United States” but stressing the importance of differentiating between fifth column elements and “the overwhelming majority of immigrants” who are loyal to the ideals of Americanism.

Support of the $1,000,000 “Rescue Through Emigration” campaign of the HIAS was voted by the conference, which was attended by more than 600 representatives of religious and fraternal groups. Speakers included President Abraham Herman of HIAS, Justice Mitchell May, campaign chairman, who presided, Isaac L. Asofsky, HIAS executive director; Rabbi A.D. Burack, vice-president of the Union of Orthodox Rabbis, and others.

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