Speech #990034019

Mr. Speaker. the situation in the Soviet Union has gone from bad to worse. Emigration levels are their lowest ever. We recall that 1984 was the most deplorable year since emigration began. Only 896 Jews were permitted to emigrate last year. down from over 51.000 in 1979. It Is clear that antiSemitism has become an inherent part of Soviet policy. with 22 Jewish prisoners of conscience. thousands confined to labor camps and millions forcibly threatened if practicing their faith openly. Through programs like Solidarity Sunday. we can voice our unity and our solidarity with those people who bravely endure systematic harassment because of their faith.