We call upon the Soviet Union to permit those Russian citizens of the Jewish faith to practice and study Judaism in any place of their choosing without penalty and to be able to observe all Jewish holidays. including the Sabbath. in freedom and without fear. This is in accordance with article 124 of the Constitution of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. Finally. we call upon the Soviet Union to permit any citizen of that country to emigrate to any country of his or her choosing. providing that that country is willing and able to receive him. or her. in accordance with article 13. part 2. of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. which reads: Everyone has the right to leave any country. including his own. and to return to his country. The increased tax on Soviet Jews wishing to emigrate to Israel is the antithesis of every value basic to human dignity and a slap at free people throughout the world. We in America. who are blessed with freedom. protest this type of action. We. as Members of Congress. should not rest until human beings in the Soviet Union are granted these rights which are fundamental to human life and dignity. We cry out in protest against the oppression of Jews in the Soviet Union. The American Government should not compromise itself into doing business with any nation that deprives its citizens the basic right of free emigration. Fortunately. we can still choose whom we want to do business with. We do not need foreign trade enough to do business with countries that practice religious discrimination and this form of bondage.
Keywords matched
emigrate emigration