Speaker. I rise in support of House Concurrent Resolution 34. which expresses concern for the plight of Soviet Jews. I believe this resolution is appropriate because each of us knows several cases where Soviet authorities have denied internationally recognized human rights to people whose only crimes are to want to learn their own language and culture. to teach their religion. and to emigrate. Mr. Speaker. the Soviet Unions human rights record continues to be dismal despite Mr. Gorbachevs openness policy. which I gather is supposed to make the Soviet Union a more livable place. But there are over 400.000 Soviet Jews who no longer want to live in the U.S.S.R. and who want to emigrate. Most of those who apply for exit visas will be arrested. charged with having committed a "crime against the state." put in prison for "leading a parasitic way of life." and generally harassed and mistreated. The new emigration law. moreover. requires these people to produce an invitation from an immediate relative. such as a parent or a spouse. in order to be considered for an exit visa. Under the old law. an invitation from any relative. including distant relatives. sufficed. What this means is that Mr.
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