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Lithuania Pledges Tolerance for All in Wilno

October 31, 1939
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The Government today issued a proclamation in the Yiddish language guaranteeing tolerance and incorporation of the city in a spirit of cooperation with minorities.

President Antonas Smetona, it was stated, intends to issue a further proclamation promising cultural autonomy to all minorities. The city, just occupied by Lithuanian troops after cession of the Wilno district by Soviet Russia, will have a Jewish vice-mayor.

One Jew was killed and several others wounded in an anti-Semitic riot here just prior to the Lithuanian occupation. A mob of Polish youths attacked Jews after they had been stirred up by Endek (Nationalist Democrat) agitators. Russian troops arrested the riot leaders.

The disturbances were repeated yesterday following the occupation and the rioters were dispersed by Lithuanian police.

The Jewish life of the city is gradually returning to normal and relief committees have begun activities.

The Lithuanian army of occupation was greeted in the name of the Jewish Community by President Dr. Jacob Wygodszki. The commander-in-chief of the army, in his reply, voiced assurances that there would be equal treatment for all inhabitants and minorities.

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