Mr. Speaker. Jewish emigration from the Soviet Union In 1984 was the lowest recorded in a single year since 1970. The 1984 total of 896 was less than 2 percent of the 1979 peak year figure of 51.320. Unfortunately. these tight emigration policies have been accompanied by an escalation of efforts to isolate and intimidate Jewish activists. Hebrew teachers and other observant Jews have been imprisoned on fabricated chargesmost recently. on charges of possession of drugs and firearms. AntiZionist propaganda campaigns continue to spread through the Soviet media. I am honored to participate in this special tribute today to those Soviet Jews. who through their courage and determination to practice their religion freely. continue to apply for exit visas to Israel despite threats of harrassment. loss of professional jobs. expulsion of their children from colleges and universities. and confiscation of personal property. I recently returned from the Soviet Union where I met with several refuseniks. One cannot adequately retell the passionate moments when a mother pleaded with her young sons freedom. even If it meant his separation from her and her husband.
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emigration visas