Our country is a symbol of freedom and hope for oppressed men and women everywhere. We must live up to this image. Emigration and human rights must remain a top priority among U.S. foreign policy objectives. Our expression of concern for the Jews and other oppressed groups in the Soviet Union does have an impact in that country. Many of my colleagues have joined in efforts on behalf of individuals pressing their right to emigrate. We have encouraged President Reagan and other U.S. officials to confront Soviet leaders with this issue. And we have made public our own concerns about the denial of these rights. The victims of this repression must know that we have not forgotten them. that we will not abandon them. Americans must be concerned about the Soviet Unions treatment of its Jewish population for another reason. Soviet adherence to existing international commitments involving human rights and freedom of emigration is a key measure of their interest in improving relations with the United States. It Is not a coincidence that the recent cooling in United StatesSoviet relations was paralleled by dramatically decreased emigration and increased hostility toward Jewish activities. The plight of Jews in the Soviet Union is acute. but there is some cause for hope. President Reagans summit meeting with Soviet Premier Gorbachev next month represents his first opportunity to press this issue with the Soviet leader face to face.
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emigrate emigration Emigration