Speech #650234487

I feel It my duty to take some time in which I desire to explain how It came about that the bill was not considered originally In the House. and. at the same time. wishing to assure the Members that the action on the part of the conferees was proper and not unusual. feeling confident that I will be able to demonstrate it before I conclude my remarks. Mr. Speaker. the very day the resolution declaring war against the AustroHungarian Government was passed. being satisfied that the great majority of the subjects of AustriaHungary were not in sympathy with their Government. and having positive knowledge that nearly all the former subjects of the monarchy. especially the Slavic and Latin races residing in the United States. who. remembering the discrimination. oppression. and persecution of their kinsmen by the tyrannical and deceitful Governments. welcomed the opportunity to be of service to their adopted country. this great Republic of ours. and enlisted in ouri Army in large numbers. notwithstanding that they still were unwilling subjects of that hypocritical monarchy. not having had the opportunity of becoming naturalized citizens of the United States. On that day I Introduced a resolution. known aE House joint resolution No. 181. providing for their exemption from the classification of alien enemies. which I Insert as part of my remarks: Joint resolution H. J.