Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Sen, Gruening of Alaska Criticized for Staying at “restricted” Hotel

April 17, 1959
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

Sharp criticism of Senator Ernest Gruening of Alaska, who is of Jewish origin and while visiting to address Jewish audiences in Jewish causes, stopped at a Miami hotel which is “restricted” and does not welcome Jewish guests, was published here in the Jewish Floridian under the signature of Leo Mindlin, executive editor of the paper.

Mr. Mindlin reported that he had called Sen. Gruening and told him that the Key Biscayne Hotel, at which he was stopping, “does not accept Jewish guests.” He quoted the Senator as replying that “I don’t care to get involved” and, subsequently, as denying that the hotel barred Jews and as arguing that Vice President Nixon and other important personalities stayed at the hotel.

The occasion for Sen. Gruening’s visit to Miami was to address a testimonial dinner given by Temple Israel in honor of Sam C. Levenson, its president. Proceeds of the dinner, totalling $136,500, went to the Mt. Sinai Hospital Fund.

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement