Condemns N.Y. Jewish Leaders for Permitting Reading of Bible in Public Schools

Condemnation of New York Jewish leaders for allowing the reading of the Bible in New York City public schools is contained in a letter sent by Mrs. Archibald Silverman, prominent Zionist leader of this city, to David Mosessohn, publisher of the “Jewish Tribune” of New York City.

Telling of the fight which she herself conducted here in Providence against religious exercises in the local public schools, Mrs. Silverman says:

“In my investigation I have learned that Bible reading in our schools has been universally adopted and practiced in our state since 1884. . . If possible, this situation is even more insufferable and intolerable in my state, Rhode Island, than in any other state. Rhode Island, where religious liberty has been acclaimed in song and verse! Rhode Island, which was settled as a refuge for those who suffered from that most ignoble persecution of all—religious persecution! Rhode Island, founded upon, and extolled for, the religious equality accorded to all!

“Our state was the first to separate church from state! Anyone seeking to destroy that fundamental principle upon which this state and all the others of these United States, was founded, is endeavoring to implant a malevolent influence which will, in the end, destroy the unity and harmony that has played such a vital part in the upbuilding of this country.”

Attacking Jewish leaders throughout the country for their indifference towards this problem, Mrs. Silverman then says in her letter:

“More particularly do I condemn those Jews in the largest and supposedly most influential Jewish community in the world, New York City. What shall we of the smaller cities say or do where we are a minority of the population. Yes, it is indeed time that we, as a peaceful, law-abiding segment of our great country, assert ourselves and claim our rights as citizens and taxpayers, by demanding that our national constitution be upheld—church and state must be separated!”