The next subject I should like to discus is the subject of our quota system which is based on the principle of national origin. This prin. ciple in my judgment is likewise a basic discriminatory one. not consistent with the best interests of our country and not consistent with the democratic foundation stones of our society. It requires modification. Our present quota system came into being in 1929. It has been in operation for 23 years. It has proven to be inadequate as witnessed by the fact that in 1948 it was necessary for us to enact the Displaced Persons Act to take care of the crying need of that chaotic period in world history. The quota system has two aspects to It. It establishes an overall ceiling on ordinary Immigration from outside the Western Hemisphere. I want to make it clear that I am in agreement with that provision. There are limits to the numbers of people that our country can absorb at any one time. and it is. therefore. essential that immigration take place in an orderly way within the limits of our absorptive capacity. It is the second aspect of the quota system with which I take issue. however. that which discriminates as between people on the basis of their national origin. Mr. President.
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quota system Immigration immigration