Yet we cannot be satisfied with these initial steps. We must not rest until all of those who desire to leave are given permission to do so. Among the thousands of refuseniks who still await exit visas are Emmanuel and Judith Lurie of Moscow. The Lurie family. Including Judiths mother Rika. first applied for emigration from the Soviet Union back in 1979 in order to be reunited with their family in Israel. After being granted exit visas in January 1980. they completed all the necessary procedures required for leaving the country. including the purchase of airline tickets and the packing of their belongings. In addition. their children were taken out of school. and Emmanuel resigned from his job. Five days beforetheir departure. the Luries were informed by the OVIR [Office of Visas and Registration] that their exit visas. excluding Judiths mother. Rika. had been canceled due to reasons of state security in connection with Emmanuels work in 196264 at a chemical plant. Rika was warned by the authorities that if she rejected this chance to leave she would not be given a future opportunity. After being subjected to many years of constant harassment from the KGB. Rika was forced into making the painful decision to leave her family and friends for safety in Israel. However. assurances were given that her family would be reallocated visas shortly. In 1987. the Luries daughter. Anna. married David Schvartsman. whose family had also been denied exit visas since 1975. In 1988. they had a son. Daniel.
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emigration visas Visas