Speech #680081665

I was not for this amendment even before we received the remarkable communication from the lapanese ambassador. I spoke against the socalled gentlemans agreement several days ago. I think of all the important questions In America none can transcend in importance the question of immigration. In the present conditions in America and the conditions in the world of all questions the most important is the question of immigration. This question of immigration with Japan has been a disturbing factor for a great many years. We made concession after concession to Japan. but we seem not to have been able to settle the difference. I have great respect for Japan as a nation and iti citizens have many admirable qualtiet. I wish nothing for that nation but prosperity and progress and I have for them gnoat gtiod will. But whatever might be my feeling for Japan I have a higher respect. a deeper regard for the rights of my own country. I for one will never consent that the question of immigration in America shall be decided or administered by any outside Influence. We have the right to determine who shall and who shall not come to this country. We concede to Japan the same right to determine who shall and who shall not come to their country.