While this has not dampened the spirit of the Lithuanian people. as evidence by the actions of Simas Kudirka and Romas Kalanta. it is a tragedy of history that we must commemorate a spiritual independence in the face of a denial of physical independence. I think it is important to note the growing attention in the Congress to problems of human rights throughout the world. but particularly in the Soviet Union. The JacksonVanikMills amendment to the trade bill last year tying most favored nation status for the U.S.S.R. to changes in that countrys emigration policies applies not only to the Jewish Soviet citizens but to all those peoples held in the U.S.S.R. against their will. This amendment confirms the concern of the Congress over violations of human rights and subsequent discussions several other Members of Congress and I have had with the Secretary of State suggest a renewed concern on his part for similar violations. Perhaps it will someday be possible to salute Lithuanian independence in fact as well as in spirit.
Keywords matched
emigration