Speech #970005189

Still imprisoned. this longtime refusenik and prominent scientist has become seriously ill. The investigation has stopped since his condition has deteriorated so greatly. Brailovskys real crime is his desire to emigrate. with his wife and two children. to Israel. His plight is evidence that the Soviet Government is not adhering to the provisions of the Helsinki accords. Those who want cultural and religious freedom. such as the Brailovskys. should not be silenced and forced to subsist in such an environment as the Soviet Union. Therefore. a constant vigil and awareness of the predicament facing Soviet Jews who wish to emigrate must be maintained. The 100.000 who have asked permission to emigrate must be allowed to practice their basic human rights. To stop such oppression many steps must be takenwe must first begin by recognizing and showing our concern for Viktor Brailovsky. Everything within our power must be done to assure that countries who are part of the Helsinki accord abide by their word and prevent such atrocities and harassment carried out by the Soviet Unon.*