Furthermore. Jews are not allowed to leave the Soviet Union to practice their religion elsewhere. In recent years. emigration levels have continuously declined. Even in emergency situations where an individual is in need of medical attention that is not available in the Soviet Union. the Soviet Government has refused to cooperate. In the case of Inna Meiman. the cost of the Soviets inaction was Innas life. Inna was a victim of cancer and needed treatment offered in the United States. The Soviet Government delayed issuing Inna an exit visa until her case was beyond treatment. Innas husband. Naum. was never given permission to emigratenot even to attend his wifes funeral. There are indications by Soviet officials that the situation may be improving. Secretary Gorbachev has promoted a more open policy and a desire for better relations with our country. Emigration levels have picked up in the last month. and there are reports that 10.000 to 12.000 Soviet Jews may leave this year. I completely support such actions by the Soviet Government and strongly encourage the Soviets to uphold such statements. These reforms are insignificant if Naum Meiman and other refuseniks are deprived of their freedom. Naum. who is in his seventies. deperately wishes to live the remainder of his life in the West. It is imperative that the Soviet Government grant Naum Meiman an exit visa immediately.e
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emigration emigratenot visa Emigration