It was undoubtedly one of the most powerful lobbies ever to operate in this country. This type of issue has provided a fertile field for politicians who can appeal to the American citizens who have close family ties in foreign lands. It is pleasing to their ears when they hear that their President or their Congressman wants to get special laws passed that would probably enable their cousins to come over without being bothered to comply With our quota laws on the subject of admissions. I hold in my hand an excerpt from the Washington Post. dated May 28. 1953. entitled "American Legion Blasts Ikes Proposal To Admit Additional European Refugees." After quoting from the spokesman for the Legion in his appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee while it was considering this legislation. the Post continued: . Richard Arens. subcommittee counsel. reported that United States security officials in Europe had told him 40 percent of the refugees from Eastern Europe. excluding Berlin. are now considered in the criminal or subversive class. That statement has not been refuted. It is utterly impossible to admit these thousands. most of whom have no documented evidence of birth or background. without admitting many undesirables.
Identified stereotypes
40% of refugees from Eastern Europe are considered criminal or subversive.