Speech #990013244

I rise today to join my colleagues who are participating in this special order on the occasion of the Third Congressional prayer vigil and fast for Soviet Jewry. There is a renewed sense of urgency to act and speak up on behalf of the Jews of the Soviet Union. 1984 was an abysmal year for the Jews of the Soviet Union. A total of 896 Jews were granted permission to leave the Soviet Union. a continuation of the downhill trend of emigration for Jews who desire to exit the country. Compared to years of high emigration. such as 1979 when 51.320 Jews were able to leave the Soviet Union. the number becomes minute. The most ominous development. however. relates to the situation within the Soviet Union for the Jewish community. There has been a marked cultural crackdown on those Jews who choose to practice Jewish tradition or show a renewed interest in their cultural heritage.