Speech #990068654

When Galina went to Moscow for the promised treatment. she was told that she had to wait. In the spring of 1981. Roald and Galina were told that their exit visa applications could be processed "in 15 years." with no certainty that the visas would be approved even after that incredible delay. Finally. Roald Zelichonok was arrested by security police on June 11. 1985. and accused of "defaming" the Soviet system. His arrest was bused on letters he had written to the West which had been confiscated by Soviet officials. yet another clear violation of basic rights and of international postal regulations. In 1979. some 51.000 Jews were allowed to emigrate from the Soviet Union and join family members abroad. last year. fewer than 900 were given that same basic human right. Not only has the number of exit visas been severely and unnecessarily curtailed. but Soviet authorities have also renewed their vicious program of the past in actively discriminating against and persecuting Jews and other religious minoritiessuch as Pentecostals and Baptistswho apply for exit visas and try to practice their religion. It is not uncommon for these highly principled Soviet citizens to lose their jobs. housing or other necessities and be reduced to "classless" citizenship. Although we in the Congress are today focusing on the plight of Soviet Jews and other religious minorities in the Soviet Union. we must maintain interest in the continuing plight of these individuals and families who are fighting what must often seem a losing and hopeless battle.