There will be an additional element in our prayers tonight. and during the next 10 Days of Awe. We will be praying for the safety of our brothers and sisters who are trapped in the Soviet Union. and we will be praying that they may soon be free in Israel. One of the most significant events in the Congress. and for the world Jewish community. was the introduction of the MillsVanik Freedom of Emigration Act. The overwhelming support this measure received. both in the Congress. and from hundreds of Jewish and nonJewish organizations. demonstrated that the problems of Soviet Jews were not a narrow issue. They reflected in microcosm the worst defects of the Soviet systemthe systematic repression of divergent opinions. of dissidents. of intellectuals. of anyone who dared to be different. Jews have always been hated in Russia. In that respect the commissars are no different than the czars. But the anguish of those Jews in Russia who are seeking permission to emigrate illustrates how the power of the Soviet regime is marshaled against anyone who says that Russia is less than heaven on earth. We are morally obligated to pass the Vanik amendment. If we give in now to the siren enticements of increased trade with Russia. we will be doing no less than sacrificing innocent human lives.
Identified stereotypes
Jews have always been hated in Russia.