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Leader Denies Anti-semitism

July 25, 1930
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The Caucasian Crusade movement, a sort of new Ku Klux Klan that has been formed here, is in no way anti-Jewish but is a strictly non-sectarian organization of an ethnic, patriotic and fraternal type, according to a statement made here today to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency by Col. William Joseph Simmons, former head of the Klan and a leader in the new movement.

RESTRICTED IMMIGRATION POLICY

Restricted immigration, however, is an important policy of the new order, he said. He explained that the order is absolutely non-sectarian and non-partisan and “the use of the term alien in the Crusade’s literature refers to mentality that is not in perfect harmony with the ideals and principles of America. The movement stands for very carefully selected and restricted immigration. It has three qualifications for membership, the applicant must be white racially and sentimentally, must be loyal to the United States and must be of acceptable and decent reputation.”

MOVEMENT HAS SPREAD TO 15 STATES

The movement has been quietly under way for 12 months and thus far has spread to about 15 states, not being localized in any one section and has a membership of several thousand, Col. Simmons declared. The seven prominent Atlantans whose names are signed to the circular as a committee of initial correspondence are all active in the movement, Col. Simmons said, in spite of the statement published here today over the name of Sam W. Small, asserting that he had not authorized the use of his name in this connection and did not believe in capitalizing sentiment at so much per head.

Although quietly conducted up to the present things will begin popping soon, Col. Simmons asserted.

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