Examining Dr. Nashpitzs case history is extremely important in that it reminds us that we are not dealing with mere abstractions but rather with fellow human beings who are suffering without just cause. Nashpitz. a refusenik of 10 years. was first denied a visa to emigrate to Israel in March 1971. on the ground that his father had left the country illegally in 1956. and that the son. 8 years old when his father defected. would have to pay the consequences of his fathers actions. Repeatedly denied permission to leave. Nashpitz has served two terms in exile. He is one of a few former prisoners of conscience who has served his term and is still denied permission to emigrate. Dr. Nashpitz received his first corrective labor sentence in 1972. Knowing that those who have served in the Soviet military are often denied permission to emigrate because of their exposure to secrets. he refused to serve when summoned. Once out of exile. Nashpitz renewed his efforts to obtain a visa. His mother was allowed to emigrate to Israel in 1974. yet KGB officials told Nashpitz that his own emigration would be expedited if he agreed to act as a Soviet informer. investigating the means used by Israeli activist leaders to find out the emigration status of Jews living in the Soviet provinces. Nashpitz refused. and in February 1975. he participated in a peaceful demonstration with approximately 30 other Russian activists. Carrying placards asking for the right to emigrate to Israel and to halt harassment following visa applications. the refuseniks were arrested by militiamen in front of the Lenin Library. Their protest lasted about 2 minutes. While most of the other demonstrators were sentenced to only 10 or 15 days.
Keywords matched
emigrate emigration visa