Speech #960325603

In the case involving the LithuanianAmericans. each demonstrator was charged with a single misdemeanor and none had a previous arrest record. Yet the Carter administration Justice Department is insisting on prosecuting them for violation of an ordinance which prohibits congregating within 500 feet of an Embassy or displaying flags or placards criticizing a foreign government. Despite the fact that the Iranians provoked a confrontation with onlookers resulting in American citizens and police being injured and despite the fact that several Iranians were charged with felonies. the charees against them were dropped even before the Immigration and Naturalization Service could verify their immigration status. This decision was made at the highest levels in Government. It is of utmost importance that we insist thlt the Justice Department reconsider their gutless treatment of the Iranian nationals who demonstrated against U.S. policy as compared to their determination to prosecute the LithuanianAmericans who demonstrated in support of freedom.