Speech #860267450

I know he has stated the case more eloquently than I could do it. He has said what I wanted to say. I am happy to air the whole immigration problem. so that the Senate can see the picture and chart the course it will follow. I would feel remiss if I did not bring this problem to the attention of the Senate. so that we may all see the picture which confronts us as it concerns our friends in other parts of the world. I hope the Senate will be able to chart a course which will enable our friends to stay with us. The committees argument for this discriminatory bill Is as follows: That the primary aim of the bill is to contribute to the closing of the remaining displaced person and refugee camps in Europe. such aim coinciding with the determined camp liquidation program of the United Nations High Commissioner for refugees. This is a most laudable aim. But can we convince the man in the Far East and the man in the Middle East that this is the fact? Back of this argument is the thought that he is not wanted. that he is not as good as the refugee from Europe. This is not only a reflection on the refugee. but it will be regarded by all those of the same ethnic group that they are not wanted. that they are not as good as the people of Europe. My amendment will promote good international relationships. The President of the United States has said: The strength of this Nation may be measured In many waysmilitary might. industrial productivity. scientific contributions. its system of justice. its freedom from autocracy. the fertility of its land. and the prowess of its people * *. Those who have struggled for the right of American citizenship have. in countless ways. shown a deep appreciation of its responsibilities. The names of those who make Important contributions in the fields of science. law. and almost every other field of endeavor indicate that there has been no period in which the immigrants to this country have not richly rewarded it for its liberality in receiving them. Mr. President. we must realize that we are fighting an Ideological battle for mens minds.