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HARVARD COLLEGE
LIBRARY
GIFT OF THE
GOVERNMENT
OF THE UNITED STATES
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN
THE UNITED STATES— PART 7
(CHICAGO, ILL., AREA)
HEARINGS
BEFORE THE
COMMITTEE ON UN-AMEEICAN ACTIVITIES
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
EIGHTY-FIFTH CONGKESS
FIRST SESSION
MARCH 26 AND 27, 1957
Printed for the use of the Committee on Un-American Activities
INCLUDING INDEX
HARVARD COLLEGE LIBRARY
DEPOSITED BY THE
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
JUN 7 1957
UNITED STATES
GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE
90844 WASHINGTON : 1957
COMMITTEE OX liX-AMEKICAX ACTIVITIES
r.MTKD States House of Rki'kesentative.s
FKANCIS E. WALTER, Pennsylvania, Chairman
MORGAN M. MOULDER, Missouri BERNARD W. KEARNEY, New York
CLYDB DOYLE, California DONALD L. .TACKSON, CaJitorui.i
JAMES B, FKAZIER, Jr., Tennessee GORDON H. SCHERER, Ohio
EDWIN B. WILLIS, Louisiana ROBERT J. McINTOSH, Mlrhij-an
Riil'.Auii AfioNs. Ilinitor
II
CONTENTS
Page
Synopsis --__ Vll
.March 2(3. 1957: Testimony of—
John Lautner 485
Mrs. Nellie DeSchaaf 499
.Jacob Pauliukas 515
Leon Pruseika 522
Afternoon session:
Anthony Minerich 528
,lohn Zuskar . 536
George Wastila 539
Wladislaw Kucharski 552
Bocho Mircheff 556
Nicholas Markoff 565
Anzelm Czarnow.«ki 571
March 27, 1957: Testimony of—
Otto H. Wangerin 576
W. Jackson Jones 587
John A. Rossen 591
Index i
in
Public Law 601, 79th Congress
The legislation under which the House Committee on Un-American
Activities operates is Public Law 601, 79th Congress [1946], chapter
753, 2d session, which provides
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives o1 the United States
of America in Congress assembled, * * *
PART 2— RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Rule X
SEC. 121. STANDING COMMITTEES
17. Committee on Un-American Activities, to consist of nine Members.
Rule XI
POWERS AND DUTIES OF COMMITTEES
( q ) ( 1 ) Committee on Un-American Activities.
(A) Un-American activities.
(2) The Committee on Un-American Activities, as a whole or by subcommittee,
is authorized to make from time to time investigations of (i) the extent, char-
acter, and objects of un-American propaganda activities in the United States,
(ii) the diffusion within the United States of subversive and un-American propa-
ganda that is instigated from foreign countries or of a domestic origin and
attacks the principle of the form of government as guaranteed by our Constitu-
tion, and (iii) all other questions in relation thereto that would aid Congress in
any necessary remedial legislation.
The Committee on Un-American Activities shall rieport to the House (or to the
Clerk of the House if the House is not in session) the results of any such investi-
gation, together with such recommendations as it deems advisable.
For the purpose of any such investigation, the Committee on Un-American
Activities, or any subcommittee thereof, is authorized to sit and act at such
times and places within the United States, whether or not the House is sitting,
has recessed, or has adjourned, to hold such hearings, to require the attendance
of such witnesses and the production of such books, papers, and documents, and
to take such testimony, as it deems necessary. Subpenas may be issued under
the signature of the chairman of the committee or any subcommittee, or by any
member designated by any such chairman, and may be served by any person
designated by any such chairman or member.
****** 0
Rule XII
LEGISLATIVE OVERSIGHT BY STANDING COM Mil TEES
Sec. 136. To assist the Congress in appi-aising the administration of the laws
and in developing such amendments or related legislation as it may deem neces-
sary, each standing committee of the Senate and the House of Representatives
shall exercise continuous watchfulness of the execution by the administrative
agencies concerned of any laws, the subject matter of which is within the juris-
diction of such committee ; and, for that purpose, shall study all pertinent re-
ports and data submitted to the Congress by the agencies in the executive branch
of the Government.
V
RULES ADOPTED BY THE 85TH CONGRESS
House Resolution 5, January 3, 1957
* * * * * * *
Rule X
STANDING COMMITTEES
1. There shall be elected by the House, at the commencement of each Congress,
* * * * 41 • *
Cq) Committee on Un-American Activities, to consist of nine Members.
Rule XI
POWERS AND DUTIES OF COMMITTEES
* if * * * * *
17. Committee on Un-American ActiA'ities.
(a) Un-American activities.
(b) The Committee on Un-American Activities, as a whole or I>y subcommittee,
is authorized to make from time to time, investigations of (1) the extent,
character, and objects of un-American propaganda activities in the Unitetl States,
(2) the diffusion within the United States of subversive and un-American propa-
ganda that is instigated from foreign countries or of a domestic origin and
attaclfs the principle of the form of government as guaranteed by our Constitu-
tion, and (3) all other questions in relation thereto that would aid Congress in
any necessary remedial legislation.
The Committee on Un-American Activities shall report to the House (or to
the Clerk of the House if the House is not in session) the results of any such
investigation, together w ith such recommendations as it deems advisable.
For the purpose of any such investigation, the Committee on Un-American
Activities, or any subcommittee thereof, is authorized to sit and act at such
times and places within the United States, whether or not the House is sitting,
has recessed, or has adjourned, to hold such hearings, to require the attendance
of such witnesses and the production of such books, papers, and documents, and
to take such testimony, as it deems necessary. Subpenas may be issued under the
signature of the chairman of the committee or any subcommittee, or by any
member designated by any such chairman, and may be served by any person
designated by any such chairman or member.
*******
26. To assist the House in appraising the administration of the laws and in
developing such amendments or related legislation as it may deem necessary,
each standing committee of the House shall exercise continuous watclifulness of
the execution by tlie administrative agencies concerned of any laws, the subject
matter of which is within the jurisdiction of such committee, and, for that
purpose, shall study all pertinent reports and data submitted to the House by
the agencies in the exec-utive branch of the Government.
SYNOPSIS
Investigation of Communist Propaganda in the United States — Part 7, Chicago,
111^ Area
In a continuation of its hearings on the Communist-dominated
foreign-language press in the United States, the Committee on Un-
American Activities in Chicago on Tuesday, March 26, 1957, heard
nine witnesses associated with foreign-language newspapers in the
Chicago, Detroit, and Superior, Wis., area. These witnesses, all of
whom invoked the fifth amendment on all pertinent questions relating
to Communist associations and Connnunist Party membership, were :
Nellie DeSchaaf, former English section editor and current
contributor to Vilnis, Lithuanian daily, printed in Chicago.
Jacob Pauliukas, business manager of Vilnis.
Leon Pruseika, an editor of Vilnis.
Anthony Minerich, business manager of Narodni Glasnik,
published in Chicago.
John Zuskar, publisher and editor of Luclova Noviny, pub-
lished in Chicago.
George Wastila, editor of Tyomies-Eteenpain, Finnish daily
published in Superior, Wis.
Wladislaw Kucharski, editor of Glos Ludowy, Polish paper
published in Detroit.
Bocho Mircheff, managing editor of Narodna Volya, Bul-
garian paper published in Detroit.
Nicholas Markoff, treasurer of Narodna Volya.
John Lautnei", a former Communist Party educational director,
identified Anthony Minerich, Bocho Mirchetf, and George Wastila
as members of the Commimist Party.
The hearing in Chicago presented further proof that the Commu-
nist-dominated foreign-language press constitutes the most important
propaganda pipeline to nationality groups in this country. Tlie com-
mittee learned that Chicago is the headquarters for the largest of
all the Connnunist papers, including the Daily Worker. This paper
is tlie Lithuanian daily, Vilnis, with a circulation of 32,000 daily.
All of its pi'incipal officers have been identilied as Conmiunists.
Several of its former editors are subjects of deportation proceedings.
The committee recommended that Jacob Pauliukas, business manager
of Vilnis, be cited for contempt of Congress.
]\Iarch 27th the committee also inquired into tlie dissemination
of Connnunist propaganda in the Chicago, 111., area. Two witnesses
were heard in this phase. Both refused on the grounds of possible
self-incrimination to answer any and all questions concerning their
Connnunist Party association or their association with propaganda
outlets for the Communist Party. The two witnesses were :
Otto Wangerin, operator of the Modern Book Store, "official"
party outlet for the Chicago area, who took the fifth amend-
ment when questioned concerning his Communist Party affilia-
tions and the type of nniterial disseminated l)y his bookstore.
VIII SYNOPSIS
John A. Rossen, who also took the fifth amendment when ques-
tioned about any Communist Party affiliations. In testimony,
Mr. Rossen was identified as executive director of the Chicago
Council of American-Soviet Friendship and the owner of the
L, M. S. Amusement Co., Inc., which operates the Cinema Annex
Theater in Chicago.
During the hearing, the committee received further clarification
of the identification of Ray Sergo, who had been identified as a Com-
munist Party member by Anzelm Czarnowski in an earlier hearing.
The committee received, and incorporated in the record, an affidavit
from Raymond M. Sergo, a schoolteacher of Lyons, 111., which, to-
gether with additional testimony from Mr. Czarnowski, established
that this Raymond M. Sergo was not the same pei'son as the Ray
Sergo, an industrial worker, named by Mr, Czarnowski.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN THE
UNITED STATES— PART 7
(Cliicaii;o, III.. Area)
TUESDAY, MARCH 26, 1957
United States House of Representatives,
Subcommittee of the
Committee on Un-American Activities,
Chicago^ III.
PUBLIC hearing
A subcommittee of the Committee on Un-American Activities met,
pursuant to call, in room 209, United States Courthouse, 219 South
Clark Street, Chicago, 111., at 10 a. m., Hon. Clyde Doyle (chairman
of the subcommittee) presiding.
Committee members present : Representatives Clyde Doyle, of Cali-
fornia, and Gordon H. Scherer, of Ohio.
Staff members present : Richard Arens, director ; W. Jackson Jones
and Frank Bonora, investigators.
Mr. Doyle. The committee will please come to order.
I have a preliminary statement that I wish to read. It is customary
so to do in these hearings.
In these hearings in Chicago with this subcommittee of the Commit-
tee on Un-American Activities beginning this morning, it is our pur-
pose to obtain further information for legislative purposes about the
extent, character, and objects of the Communist propaganda in the
United States, including subversive activities of the Communist Party.
This is our official duty and obligation under the express terms of
Public Law 601, enacted by the United States Congress in 1946 during
the 79th session thereof.
The primary purpose of our inquiry today and tomorrow, here in
the Chicago area, is the extent to which the press is Communist domi-
nated so far as foreign-language papers are concerned or the sub-
versive conspiracy is implemented thereby. We expect to investigate
today and tomorrow the extent to which this foreign-language press,
which is printed in, or distributed from, the Chicago area, is the tool
of the Communist subversive propaganda activity.
We recently made a very successful investigation on the same im-
portant subject in the New York City area. It is the Conmiunist
infiltration of the foreign-language press with which we will be
concerned chiefly.
Evidence which the committee has already received in hearings in
other cities on this same subject indicates clearly that the propaganda
operations of the Communist Party in the United States among minor-
ity groups serve as one of the most powerful means and methods of
subversion.
481
482 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
The activities of the Communist Party right here in the Chicago
area take on a new significance in view of the recent announced deci-
sion of the Communist Party of the United States to transfer its
headquarters nationally to Chicago.
The Communist Party and Communist front organizations which
already exist here in this important industrial area are among the most
virile and extensive in our entire beloved Nation.
Our examination of Communist propaganda publications is sure
to prompt the cry from the Communists and the Communist-con-
trolled fronts and Communist-controlled press that we are attempting
to exert a censorship of tlie press. This is, of course, false and un-
founded, and the Communists know that such an attack on this com-
mittee has no foundation in truth or in fact.
I want to make it clear that this committee has no intention of seek-
ing censorship of newspapers, magazines, or books, or interfering in
any way with the operation of genuine and free publications. But we
are definitely instructed by the United States Congress and by
Public Law 601 to investigate and report the extent and character of
Communist subversive propaganda and activities wherever it rears
its ugly head. The Communist publications are another matter. To
the extent that any foreign-language newspaper that we are investi-
gating today and tomorrow is controlled by Communist philosophy,
it is not a free press. They are but the mouthpiece of a foreign ideol-
ogy from a foreign source of a subversive conspiracy against the
free press or against free speech in the United States.
The constitutional right to advocate change in an orderly manner
is fundamental. We recognize it as such. But orderly cliange in our
constitutional law, is not the subversive intent of the Communist Party
in the United States. There are constitutional guaranties of free
speech and free press, and thank God there are, but there are no con-
stitutional guaranties protecting subversive, fraudulent propaganda
designed to forcibly and violently overthrow our constitutional gov-
ernment or prohibiting the Government of the United States from
dealing with it in the legal manner.
Indeed, there are already existing laws against such types of publi-
cations. It is apparent that these laws are f requentl}^ being violated
and circumvented in many ways and that these laws need to be
strengthened.
The committee subscribes wholeheartedly and vigorously to the
j)remise that any American citizen has the establislied right to say and
to write wliat he pleases and to present his grievance in a legitimate
way to the representatives which he has democratically chosen to gov-
ern him. But, at the same time, the people of the United States and
the Government of the people of the United States have a right and a
duty to learn the identity of those who illegally and subversively abuse
the freedom of speech and the freedom of the press in order to bring
about subversive destruction of our constitutional form of govern-
ment.
At this point I wish to incorporate in the record the authorization of
the House Committee on Un-American Activities for this series of
subcommittee liearings and the order by the chairman of the House
Committee on Un-American Activities, to wit, the Honorable Francis
E. Walter, in which he appointed this subcommittee consisting of three
ESrVESTIGATIOX OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 483
inembers; namely, the distinguished gentleman from Tennessee, Mr.
Frazier, who is absent this morning; the distinguished gentleman
from Ohio, Mr. Scherer, on my right; and myself, Clyde Dojde,
of California, as subcommittee chairman,
(The documents referred to follow:)
Extract from the Minutes of the Executi\'e Meeting of the Committee on
Un-American Activities Held on January 22, 1957
A motion was made by Mr. Kearney, seconded by Mr. Willis, and unanimously
carried approving and authorizing the holding of hearings in Chicago, 111.,
beginning in March 1957, and the conduct of investigations deemed reasonably
necessary by the staff in preparation therefor, the subject of which hearings
and the investigations in connection therewith to include, in general, all matters
within the jurisdiction of the committee, and in particular Communist activities
and influence in the field of foreign language publications.
To the Clerk of the Committee on Un-American Activities of the House
OF Representatives.
Order for Appointment of Subcommittee
Pursuant to the provisions of law and the rules of this committee, I hereby
appoint a subcommittee of the Committee on Un-American Activities, House
of Representatives, consisting of Hon. Clyde Doyle, chairman, Hon. James B.
Frazier, Jr., and Hon. Gordon H. Scherer, associate members, to hold hearings
in Chicago, 111., beginning on March 26, 1957, on all matters within the jurisdic-
tion of the committee, and to take testimony on said day or any succeeding days,
and at such times and places as it may deem necessary, until its work is
completed.
The clerk of the committee is directed to immediately notify the appointees
of their appointment and to file this order as an official committee record, in
the order book kept for that purpose.
Given under my hand this 19th day of March 1957.
Francis E. Walter,
Chairman, Committee on Un-American Activities,
House of Representatives.
Mr. DoYi.E. I would like to remind 3'ou visitors and spectators
present that this committee is here on a work assignment and that you
are visitors here through the courtesy of this committee. Therefore,
we assmne there will be no disturbance of any kind by any visitor
in this room, neither of approval or disapproval of anything that
is said.
I wish at this time to instruct the United States marshal, if any
person in the room makes any disturbance of any kind, you will be
expected to, and we will appreciate it if you will, immediately remove
that person from the room and not allow him to return.
We believe it is a fair and reasonable request because we are here
to work and not to be disturbed.
In addition, of course, you folks of Chicago realize that this hearing
is being held in the courtroom of the district court of the United
States of America, and one of the rules of this court is that there shall
be no smoking in this room. We will expect that to be rigorously
observed.
I wish to also observe that Mr. Scherer and I, who are here today,
as the quorum of a subcommittee of three, are both lawyers and both
practiced law for many years before we went to Congress. I say
this for the benefit of any legal counsel who may appear with the
484 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
witness under the rules of this committee which were pronounced in
1953. I wish to read rule No. VII which relates to the appearance
of counsel before this committee :
VII — Advice of Counsel
A. At every hearing, public or executive, every witness sball be accorded the
privilege of having counsel of his own choosing.
B. The participation of counsel during the course of any hearing and while
the witness is testifying shall be limited to advising said witness as to his legal
rights. Counsel shall not be permitted to engage in oral argument with the
committee, but shall confine liis activity to the area of legal advice to his
client.
I know that counsel will recognize, as we do, that this committee
is not a court, nor sitting as a court. The rules of evidence do not
apply necessarily.
I shall expect the fullest cooperation of counsel as they appear with
witnesses. We are always glad to have counsel present.
Now, as to photography : This committee never interferes with the
freedom of the press when you desire to take photographs. There-
fore, as far as this committee is concerned, you are at liberty to exercise
the freedom of the American press to take all the pictures you want
of the witnesses up until the time they are put under oath and when
they are testifying. If they have requested that no pictures be taken,
we know you will cooperate with us and not take any pictures of any
witness after he is sworn and while he is testifying. But I wish to
emphasize again that we never interfere with the freedom of the
press to take pictures up until the time the witness is under oath.
Are you ready, Mr. Arens ?
Mr. Arens. I have in my hand two doctors' certificates, one per-
taining to Mr. Vincent Andrulis, who was under subpena to appear
today.
I respectfully suggest, Mr. Chairman, that this doctor's certificate
that was presented to me by the counsel for Vincent Andrulis be
incorporated in the body of the record, and the subpena be indefinitely
postponed for Mr. Andrulis.
Mr. Doyle. But he remains under subpena.
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir.
Mr. Doyle. But we postpone it.
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir ; to a day when we can notify him.
I have also a doctor's certificate in my hand, presented to me a few
moments ago, by counsel for Alice Yonik.
And I respectfully suggest that this doctor's certificate also be
incorporated in the bodj' of the record and that the record reflect
the order from the chairman that the subpena on Alice Yonik is
continued to a day to be determined after we have had a chance
Mr. Doyle. The subpena for her will be continued.
May we have for the record the date of those two affidavits ? When
were they sworn to?
Mr. Arens. Neither is an affidavit. They are statements on the
letterheads of the physicians with the signatures of the physicians.
Mr. Doyle. The date?
Mr. Arens. One is dated March 15, 1957, and the other is dated
March 23, 1957.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 485
Mr. Doyle. If there is no objection, the subpenas will be continued
in full force and effect and the communications will be incorporated
in the record.
(The statements follow :)
Chicago, III., March 15, 1951.
To Whom It May Coiwern:
Mr. Vincent Andrulis of 61 East 101st Place has a myocarditis and arterio-
sclerotic heart disease (heart ailment). Any prolonged, emotionally upsetting
ordeal may react badly upon Mr. Andrulis.
Haeold H. Was, M. D.
Near North Medical Center,
Chicago, III., March 2S, 1957.
To Whom It May Concern:
Mrs. Alice Tonik has been a patient of mine since 1954, and at present is being
treated for a severe degenerative arthritis of the left knee. She has been ad-
vised not to leave the house and greatly limit her activity about the home for a
period of 4 to 8 weeks.
Sincerely,
Leo M. Goldman, M. D.
Mr. DoTUE. Call your first witness.
Mr. Arens. The first witness, if you please, Mr. Chairman, is Mr.
John Lautner.
Mr. Doyle. Will you please raise your right hand to be sworn ?
Do you solenuily swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing
but the truth, so help you God ?
Mr. Lautner. I do.
Mr. Doyle. Please occupy the witness chair.
TESTIMONY OF JOHN LAUTNER
Mr. Arens. Kindly identify yourself by name, residence, and occu-
pation.
Mr. Lautner. My name is John Lautner. I live in Youngstown,
Ohio, and I am a Government consultant on communism.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Lautner, would you kindly tell us whether or not
you have ever been a member of the Communist Party ?
Mr. Lautner. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Would you kindly give us a thumbnail sketch of
your personal life, with particular emphasis upon your membership
and service in the Communist Party ?
Mr. Lautner. Yes.
I joined the Communist Party in 1929 in New York City. In 1930
I was sent to a training school, a National Training School, organized
by the Hungarian Bureau of the Communist Party. After graduation
I was sent to Detroit, Mich., as district secretary of the Hungarian
National Bureau. While there, I was also secretary of the Control
Commission of the Michigan district of the Communist Party.
In 1931, 1 was assigned to Canada as editor of a weekly Communist
paper there and, in addition to that, as national secretary of the Hun-
garian Bureau of Canada.
In 1932, I was reassigned to Cleveland, Ohio, as one of the editors
of a Communist newspaper in Cleveland and district secretary of the
Hungarian Bureau there.
486 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
In 1933, I became a section organizer of the Communist Party in
New York.
In 1936, I became a district organizer of the Communist Party for
the State of West Virginia.
In 1941, I was sent to the National Training School of the Com-
munist Party again. After graduation, I became a member of the
Nationality Groups Commission of the Communist Party and national
secretary of the Hungarian Bureau of the Communist Party. For
about 6 months, also, I was national secretary of the Hungarian
Section of the International Workers Order.
In 1942, November, I was drafted into the Army. I served in
psychological warfare, being a graduate of the War Department mili-
tary intelligence.
In 1945, June, I returned from overseas. I was reassigned as
national secretary of the Hungarian Bureau and on the Nationality
Groups Commission of the Communist Party.
In 1947, 1 became the industrial organizer of the Comnnmist Party
in the building trades in New York. In 1947, May, I became the State
chairman of the Review^ Commission of the Communist Party in
New York State. And, in addition to that, in September 1948, I
was placed on the National Review Commission of the Communist
Party, the national disciplines commission. I served in these two
capacities up until I left the Communist Partv on the 17th of January
1950.
Mr. Arens. Since January 17, 1950, when you disassociated your-
self from the Communist Party, have you maintained a continuing
interest and kep< yourself informed as best you can from various
sources as to the techniques and operations of tlie Communist Party ?
Mr. Lautner. I did.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Lautner, on the basis of your background and ex-
perience and current information and study of the Communist Party,
could you tell this committee now, first of all, how serious is the
Communist Part}^ today, this minute, in the United States ?
Mr. Lautner. Well, the seriousness of the Communist Party, or
lack of seriousness of the Communist Party, in the United States is
determined by the gains of the worldwide Communist movement,
gains that were made since the end of the Second World War. Today,
practically the whole continental Asia is in the hands of the Commu-
nist movement, with the exception of the Indian subcontinent. A
whole chain of new Communist countries came into being as a result
of the end of the Second World War, the so-called new democracies,
like Poland, Czechoslovakia, Hungary, Rumania, Albania, Bulgaria,
and so forth, and also the fact that the- Red Army — the role that the
Red Army played in the years of 1945, 1946 and 1947 in consolidating
these in Communist hegemony in the so-called new democracies.
These are the determining factors.
Mr. Arens. Is the Communist Party in the United States a bona
fide political party, or is it a tentacle of the international Communist
conspiratorial apparatus ?
Mr. Lautner. The Communist Party of the United States, by its
own design and own decision, as recently as its last convention in Feb-
ruary, is part of a worldwide Communist movement, encompassing
thirty-some-odd million members. Each component part of this
INVESTIGATION OF COIVEMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 487
worldwide movement works and labors under various conditions to
bring about the speediest and closer realization of the fundamental
aims of the Communist Party.
Now, in the United States, this party is part of that vrorld-
wide Communist movement that adheres to the basic principles of
Marxism and Leninism, and it adheres to proletarian internationalism.
In different words, what helps the Communists in Burma, in the
Philippines, or in Albania or in Algeria, is a gain for this party over
here, too, and what harms the Communist movement everywhere else
harms the Communist Party over here. In this sense, the Communist
Party of the United States is part of that worldwide Communist
movement led by tlie leading part}^ of world comnnuiism, and that
is the Soviet Party,
Mr. Arens. Mr. Lautner, the fact is, is it not, that the numerical
strength of the Communist Party in the United States has been re-
duced over the course of the last several years? That is true, is it
not?
Mr. Lautxer. That is correct.
Mr. Arens. Is there a fallacy in undertaking to appraise the menace
and danger of the Communist Party in the terms of its numerical
strength ?
Mr. Lautner. It is a fallacy to judge the party by its numerical
strength. Lenin speaks about that, and he says it is not the numerical
strength that ascertains the influence and the strength of the party
but the quality of leadership it has and what influences that party,
no matter how small it is, has from time to time on various issues with
what sections, what segments of the population.
Mr. Arens. The Communist Party, beginning about the time you
left the party in 1950, deliberately divested itself of the intellectual
dupes and those who were not hard core, isn't that correct ?
Mr. Lautner. Well, that is one way of putting it. The fact is that
beginning in 1948, September, there was a deliberate and planned
effort to streamline the party and to prepare the partj^ for going un-
derground. A new tj'pe of organization was conceived, the so-called
three system. And Henry Winston, the national organization secre-
tary of the party, in the middle of the year, made a statement that
only those will remain members of the Communist Party who will be
selected and register to be members of the Communist Party.
A lot of them, on the basis of this technicality, fell on the wayside,
but the peripherj'^ of the party — the so-called outer reaches of the
party — were consolidated on various issues; and the influence of the
party began to exert itself in places where it never exerted itself be-
fore, exploring the so-called persecution of the party.
Elements like Norman Thomas, who was called a social Fascist just
a few years back ; elements like A. J. Muste, who was known and so
designated by the party as an enemy of the working class, a social
Fascist — these are elements today who find it comfortable to go, and
on partial issues find themselves in the same boat with the Communist
Party.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Lautner, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, so we
are advised, has approximately 6,000 splendid, trained agents, but
those 6,000 trained agents of this wonderful organization are engaged
in a variety of activities, of which international subversion is only one
488 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U, S.
activity. How, numerically, does the strength of the Coininimist con-
spiracy compare in this Nation with the numerical strength of the
FBI?
Mr. Lautner. Well, as competent as the FBI is, I think they would
have to work every agent 24 hours a day to catch up with back case-
loads. I don't think that strength is sufficient in the face of the Com-
munist danger that we face now.
Mr. Arens. You have at least three times the number of Communist
conspirators, foreign agents, on American soil, working for the world
conspiracy as there are FBI agents in this country; is that correct?
Mr. Lautner. If that is the number of FBI agents, 6,000, then that
is so, yes.
Mr. Arens. Now, Mr. Lautner, at the recent Communist Party con-
vention in New York, there were certain declarations made to the effect
that the Communist Party would no longer be part of the Moscow
apparatus and that it would no longer advocate or stand for the over-
throw of the Government of the United States by force and violence.
Can that be taken at its face value ?
Mr. Lautner. Definitely not.
Mr. Arens. Why not?
Mr. Lautner. Because the Communist Party, by its own design and
own decision, still adheres to the basic principles of Marxism and
Leninism, and Leninism means dictatorship; Leninism means force
and violence. Unless they repudiate Leninism, unless they repudiate
the deeds of Lenin, the massacre of the Kronstadt sailors, unless they
repudiate the massacre of untold millions in the Soviet Union, there
is no qualitative change there.
They also adhered at this convention to proletarian internationalism.
Proletarian internationalism means belonging to that army of Commu-
nists throughout the world in a disciplined and obliging way, which
works for the destruction of, in this country, our form of government
and, in other countries, other forms of government that the Commu-
nists want to destroy there.
Furthermore, they still defend the Soviet Union because they re-
fused at that convention to exercise any type of criticism against the
massacre of the Red army in Hungary. That did not happen. What
did happen there was a unification in that Communist Party of the
various strains that developed in the preconvention discussion.
There was established in that convention a unity of will to act as one
solid force facing the future, no matter what the future may mean for
the Communist movement in this country.
Mr. Scherer. Let us correct for the record a slip of the tongue by the
witness. He said a massacre of the Red armv in Hungary. You mean
"by"?
Mr. Lautner. By the Red army in Hungary.
Mr. Arens. On the basis of your background and experience, could
you tell this committee the structure within the Communist appara-
tus for the purpose of undertaking to influence nationality groups in
the United States?
JSIr. Lautner. Yes. Well, the Communist Party itself elects a Na-
tional Committee; and the National Committee then within itself
elects a smaller committee, known as a political committee or board,
and even a smaller committee on top of that as a secretariat.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 489
Xow, since the Communist Party is very much concerned and in-
terested in all phases of human relationships and in order to give
adequate coverage and attention to these so-called hmnan relation-
ships, under the name of the National Committee, various subcommit-
tees are organized, who specialize in their specific phase of work
which is delegated to them. Such subcommittees are labor commis-
sion, youth commission, Negro commission, women's commission, vet-
erans' commission, finance commission, education commission, cadre
commission, and also Nationality Groups Commission.
The Nationality Groups Commission is composed of qualified, highly
skilled Communist leaders who know the problems in the various na-
tionality group fields. This Nationality Groups Commission gives
leadership and guidance in each nationality group of the Commmiist
Party to the bureaus, national bureaus, that are designated by the
Communist Party there and also gives guidance and a checkup on
the content of the various nationality group Communist-language
papers. This guidance and this checkup are done through meetings
called by the Nationality Groups Commission to evaluate various
trends in the nationality groups of the Communist Party ; by reports
accepted from the national bureau secretaries; by going in and in-
vestigating the workings of various nationality group bureaus and
their institutions, such as mass organizations like the IWO
Mr. Arens. International Workers Order ?
Mr. Lautner. That is right. This is the way the National Com-
mittee keeps abreast as to what is going on and what is happening
and what way they can help to reflect the party line in nationality
groups.
Mr. Arexs. "VVliy would the Communist Party have an interest in
nationality groups in the United States?
Mr. Lautner. Well, the party ever since its inception and par-
ticularly since the open letter in 1932, which
Mr. x\rens. What letter?
Mr. Lautxer. An open letter which was titled "Face Towards the
Shop." Ever since then, the party is utmostly interested in gaining
a foothold in the basic industries. To show how eager the party is in
that direction, even the labor commission organized various subcom-
mittees, such as maritime commission, mining commission, steel com-
mission, auto commission, with people specializing in these problems
pertainng to these various industries in order to gain a foothold to put
roots into these basic industries.
Mr. Arens. What part do the nationality groups play in that
picture ?
Mr. Lautner. The nationality groups are a basic part of this think-
ing. Foreign-born workers, first- and second-generation foreign-
born workers, are the ones in the main in the basic industries, such as
packing, steel, mining, or rubber or auto. And, in this way, the party
is making all efforts to gain adherents and gain prestige in these basic
industries: and the nationality groups are a lever in that direction.
Mr. Arens. What was the role of the International Workers Order
in the program of the Communist Party toward the nationality
groups ?
Mr. Lautner. The International Workers Order was a sick- and
death-benefit organization, staffed by party leaders in all the higher
90844 — 57— pt. 7 2
490 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
echelons; and it was a mass organization through which the party
could further expand in the nationality groups and carry on Com-
munist work, propaganda, and operation.
Mr. Arens. In the International Workers Order, did they have a
number of subunits which were clubs or cultural associations t
Mr. Lautner. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Consisting of nationalit}^ groups?
]Mr. Laupner. Yes.
Mr. Arens. A few years ago, Mr. Lautner, the State of New York
revoked the charter of the International Workers Order because it
found it was not a bona fide insurance organization. What happened
to the roots of the organization after the top was chopped off?
Mr. Lautner. The top was cut olf and the branches — I don't know
about Chicago, but in New York they function on the basis of a cul-
tural club or a tourist club or a singing society or a bowling group.
They are still functioning unharmed and activities go on as before
except that the top leadership was taken off from the IWO.
Mr, ^Irens. What is the role of the foi-eign-language press in the
Communist designs and apparatus?
Mr, Lautner. The role of the foreign-language press is to reflect
the party policies, the party line, in the respective language in which
that foreign-language press is printed, whether it is Hungarian, Croa-
tian, or Yiddish, or Russian, it doesn't make any difference.
Mr. Arens. AVhat significance does the foreign-language press have
in the purposes of the Communist Party ?
Mr. Lautner. The significance of it is that, well, it is not in English,
in the first place ; second, it is in the native tongue of the individual
who reads it, and even there it tries to influence other language press
in that foreign language. For instance, in the Hungarian field, there
are quite a number of Hungarian newspapers, daily newspapers ; but
the Communist newspaper is trying to cut off' the influence of the other
Hungarian papers in that respect in the nationality group and, at the
same time, project the party line. In addition to that, project, also,
the thinking and the line of the Hungarian Communist government
in this country.
Mr. ScHERER. The press has a question as to your ruling with refer-
ence to taking pictures. It is my understanding the press may take
pictures at any time unless the witness objects.
Mr, Doyle, That is correct. If I did not make that clear, I now
make it clear,
Mr, Arens. Now, Mr, Lautner, during the course of your service
in the Communist Party, did you know as a Commmiist a person by
the name of Leo Fisher, F-i-s-h-e-r ?
Mr, Lautner, Yes.
Mr. Arens, Would you please tell us, first of all, who he was,
identify him on the basis of his occupation ; and then tell us any ex-
perience you had with him ?
Mr. Lautner. Leo Fisher was for a while, a short while, the dis-
trict organizer of the Communist Part}^ in Detroit, Mich,, in the
winter of 1930-31, when the former district organizer, Jack Stachel,
left for New York. At that time, I was in that district and I workexl
under him as control commission secretary. Later on, I met him,
I think it was in the late 1930's, when I was district org-anizer
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 491
of West Virginia ; and he used to come into district committee meet-
ings in Pittsburgh and, if my recollection doesn't fail me, attended 1
or 2 district committee meetings there. And also, when I was on the
Nationality Groups Commission, in 1941 or in 1942, 1 came down with
Avro Landy to Pittsburgh once to discuss the party influence in the
Croatian Fraternal Order; and we had a meeting with the Yugoslav
leaders, Tony Minerich, Frank Boricli, and Leo Fislier, I think.
That was the last time I saw him while I was in the party.
Mr. Arens. Did you, in the course of your experience in the Com-
munist Party, know as a Communist a person by the name of Anthony
Minerich, A-n-t-h-o-n-y M-i-n-e-r-i-c-h ?
Mr. Lautner. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Please identify him for us.
]Mr. Lautner. I met Tony IMinerich in the late 1930-s in Pittsburgh
at district connnittee meetings and also, as I said before, at one of the
meetings of the Croatian Fraternal Order that we had in the head-
quarters there ; also once in Detroit, we had a meeting I think it was
on the All-Slav Congress. Also I met him, I think it was in 1946
or 1947, when he came back from Yugoslavia and gave a report to the
Nationality Groups Commission on Yugoslavia at that time.
Mr. Arens. Was he, at any time in your experience in the Com-
munist Party, connected with tlie foreign-language press?
Mr. Lautnfj?. Yes, he was business manager at one time for
Narodni Glasnik
Mr. Arens. Is that Narodni Glasnik
Mr. Lautner. In Pittsburgh, Pa.
Mr. Ari:ns. And you spell that N-a-r-o-d-n-i G-1-a-s-n-i-k?
Mr. Lautner. That is right.
Mr. Aeens. In the course of your experience in the Communist
Party, did you know as a Communist a person by tlie name of Mike
Walsh?
Mr. Lautner. Oh, yes.
Mr. Arens. Alias George M. Wastila, W-a-s-t-i-1-a?
Mr. Lautner. That is right. Mike Walsh was a party functionary
in the Harlem Section of the Communist Party under James Ford
and Louis Sas, and I think lie attended 1 or 2 section organizer meet-
ings ; and I used to meet with him in the Finnish Hall and have party
conferences and meetings, I think at 126th Street near 5th Avenue.
Mr. Arens. Do you know of any service by him in the foreign-
lanuage press at the behest of the Communist Party ?
Mr. Lautner. I heard later on he went to Minnesota or Wiscon-
sin and was one of the editors of the Finnish papers there.
Mr. Arens. During the course of your experience in the Communist
Party, did you know as a Communist a person by the name of Bocho,
B-o-c-h-o, whose last name is Mircheff, M-i-r-c-h-e-f-f, Bocho Mir-
cheff?
Mr. Lautner. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Bocho Mircheif .
Mr. Lautner. Yes. That was in 1930 and 1931. While I was in
Detroit, Mich., Mircheff and Antonoff were the two outstanding lead-
ers in the Bulgarian nationality group, and they just came out vic-
toriously from a factional fight where the editor of the Bulgarian
paper — I don't recall his name, Cenkof or something like that — was
492 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
removed and Mircheff became the bureau secretary of the Bulgarian
bureau in Detroit at that time.
When I went to Canada the following year, party leaders like Sam
Carr and others made friendly inquiries as to how Mircheff was
getting along in Detroit. I told them he was getting along all right.
I haven't seen him ever since.
Mr. Aeens. To your knowledge, was he at any time connected with
the foreign press ?
Mr. Lautner. Yes, with the Bulgarian paper.
Mr. Arens. Was tliat Narodna Volya, N-a-r-o-d-n-a V-o-l-y-a?
Mr. Lautner. I wouldn't know the name.
Mr, Arens. During the course of your experience in the Com-
munist Party, did you know as a Communist a person by the name
of Otto Wangerin, W-a-n-g-e-r-i-n, first name Otto, Otto Wangerin ?
Mr. Lautner. That is right.
Mr. Arens. Please tell us your experience with him?
Mr. Lautner. I met him at National Committee meetings.
Mr. Arens. Of the Communist Party ?
Mr. Lautner. Of the Communist Party, in the 1930's conventions.
He was the national coordinator of the party of railroad workers.
And that was my knowledge and association with him.
Mr. Arens. We thank you, Mr. Lautner.
I respectfully suggest, Mr. Chairman, that will conclude the staff
interrogation of this witness.
Mr. Doyle. Mr. Scherer, Do you have any questions ?
Mr. Scherer. Mr. Lautner, how did the Communist Party make
use of the fact that many readers of foreign-language newspapers
cannot read English and must depend upon the foreign-language
newspaper for all of their political information ?
Mr. Lautner. Well, first, some of the papers have
Mr. Scherer. Did you understand my question ?
Mr. Lautner. Yes. They had an English section inserted from
time to time, on a weekly basis, or regularly or irregularly in the for-
eign-language press, touching various topics that the party was inter-
ested in. Some papers had daily English columns in order to whet
the appetite of the younger elements in the family to look into the
paper once in a while.
As far as the readers themselves were concerned, they were elderly
people and they read the paper in their native tongue.
Mr. Scherer. I think you missed the point of my question. Maybe
1 did not make it clear.
We all recognize the fact that there are many people in this country
who cannot read English.
Mr. Lautner. That is right.
Mr. Scherer. And that they must depend, therefore, for their po-
litical information on the foreign-language press.
Mr. Lautner. That is right.
Mr. Scherer. Now, do you have any information as to how the
Communist Party used the fact that there are many readers who
cannot read English and must depend on a foreign-language news-
paper ?
Mr. Lautner. That is why there are foreign-language papers con-
trolled by the Communist Party to accommodate and to make further
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 493
sains in the respective nationality groups. But, in addition to that,
there are a lot of Communist propao;anda and material coming in,
j^articularly since the end of the World War, in their respective native
languages. 'into the Ignited States. I know there is a lot of Hungarian
Communist propaganda coming in, publications, books, pamphlets,
that are distributed in the United States which originate from behind
the Iron Curtain.
Mr. SciiEREK. We have had an abundance of testimon\' to substanti-
ate what you have said.
Mr. LAm'NER. That is good.
Mr. ScHERER. And perhaps later in these hearings, we will get into
that particular phase of Communist propaganda activity.
I just have one ]nore question. Do you have any opinion or infor-
mation as to why the Communist Party moved its lieadquarters from
Xew York City to Chicago, 111. ^ Or decided to move its headquarters ?
Mr. Lautner. Yes. The Communist Party was born in Chicago.
It moved later on to New York City and has been in Xew York City
approximately, let's see, from about 1924 or 1925 — this is 1957 — over
30 years in New York City. The party made all efforts to concentrate
on the basic industries and to concentrate on the Negro people, and
evidently these are the two failures of the party to show for the 30
years of activity.
The Negro people of Harlem repudiated communism. There is no
doubt about that. They feel that maybe it will be a change of atmos-
phere in a new location back to Chicago, and they will be closer to
the basic industries, and they feel that the Chicago South Side will
supply the base of operation among the Negro people with more success
than they could register in the past.
And then there are other reasons. There is one reason that they
evidently don't say and have never spoken of publicly. That is that
Chicago is the only city where there was no Smith Act conspiracy trial,
conspiracy case, which is also in their consideration in moving to
Chicago.
Well, these are, in my opinion, the considerations that bring up the
question of moving to Chicago within a year. "\Yliether that will be
realized or not we will see, but they won't come here tomorrow or day
after tomorrow. There are too many other problems involved.
There is the question of tlie Daily Worker, the newspaper. There is
a question of running out on the (*harge of anti-Semitism against the
party and the Soviet leadershi]:), and New York has a big Jewish
population.
These are also considerations that the convention decision had to
take into account when they made a statement that they were going to
move to Chicago.
Mr. ScHERER. From the questions that I have asked and from your
testimony, we do not want to lead anyone to believe that the entire
foreign-language press is Communist dominated. That is not so.
Mr. Lai'txer. Oh, definitely not.
Mr. ScHERER. I believe you said that.
Mr. Laftner. A very small segment of it is.
Mr. ScHERER. I believe you said in the beginning of your testimony
onlv a small sesfment of it is.
494 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S.
Mr. Lautner. Very small. As a matter of fact, the largest Com-
munist foreign-language circulation is the paper Vilnis right here in
Chicago. I think that it is 32,000. I think there is no other Com-
munist foreign-language paper that has that kind of circulation.
Mr. ScHERER. At the conclusion of our hearings in New York 2
weeks ago, the committee made that specific finding at the end of the
hearing. Namely, it stated that they did not want the hearings to
indicate that the committee felt in any way that the entire foreign-
language press was Communist dominated, and the committee spe-
cifically said that only a small segment of the foreign-language press
was Communist dominated and Communist controlled.
Mr. Lautner. That is correct.
Mr. ScHERER. Although it is a small segment, yet the testimony in
NeAv York demonstrated clearly that it had a terrific influence in cer-
tain sections of New York City and other big cities.
Mr. Lautner. That is correct.
Mr. Arens. As to this paper Vilnis, there are 30,000 people who
read that foreign-language paper which is Communist controlled; is
that correct ?
Mr. Lautner. 32,000.
Mr. Arens. And they read it regularly ?
Mr. Lautner. Yes.
Mr. Arens. And there is nothing on the masthead that indicates that
it is of the hammer- and -sickle variety.
Mr. Lautner. No. They haven't got the 21 conditions on the front
page.
Mr. Doyle. Are you through, Mr. Scherer ?
Mr. Scherer. Yes.
Mr. Doyle. May I ask Mr. Lautner a few questions, please ?
I remember you left the Communist Party January 17, 1950.
Mr. Lautner. That is correct.
Mr. Doyle. When did you join ?
Mr. Lautner. 1929.
Mr. Doyle. Why did you leave ?
Mr. Lautner. Well, Congressman, I don't think we should go into
that. It would be unfair. I found myself in a very embarrassing
situation. One nice Saturday evening on the 14tli of January in
Cleveland, in a cellar, stripped stark naked ; and I was accused of being
an international political police spy in the ranks of the Communist
Party.
Mr. Arens. You were accused by the Communists ?
Mr. Lautner. That is right.
Mr. Arens. You were accused of being anti-Communist ?
Mr. Lautner. That is right, which was not the truth and was amply
demonstrated and brought out in 15 or 16 Smith Act cases that they
made a terrible mistake ; and they are paying for it.
Mr. Doyle. That w^as a good mistake.
Mr. Lai'tner. Well, good or bad, they made a mistake.
Mr. Scherer. Both for you and for the information that you have
subsequently given to the Congress of the United States.
Mr. Lautner. I w^as never a Government agent while in the ranks
of the Communist Party.
Mr. Scherer. You stood trial?
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 495
Mr. Lautner. Trial ? Yes, it was a trial with butcher knives, rub-
ber hose and guns and a battery charger — they insulted my intelli-
gence— they said it was a lie detector and a tape-recording machine.
Mr. SciiEKER. Were you found guilty as charged by the Com-
munists ?
Mr. Lautner. Oh, yes. On the l7th of January they placed my
picture in the Dail}^ Worker and captioned it "Traitor to the cause
of the working class," and what not.
Mr. ScTiERER. During j'our trial, were you allowed to use the fifth
amendment ?
Mr. Lautner. Oh, no. There is no such thing in the Communist
Party. You can't even bring your own witness,
Mr. Arens. Mr. Lautner, since this incident you related, have you
completely, irrevocably broken from the Communist Party and its
ideology ?
Mr. Lautner. That is correct. That was a painful process, but
fortunately I did.
Mr. Doyle. May I ask a couple more questions, please ?
Of course, at this trial — I do not know whether I should call it
a trial — let me put it this way : This incident which you relate on
January 14 of what year ?
Mr. Lautner. 1950.
Mr. Doyle. Of course, that was a jury trial, was it not, in the Com-
munist Party? You had a right of trial by jury.
Mr. Lautner. Congressman, it was a trial by three thugs.
Mr. Doyle. By what?
Mr. Lautner. Three thugs that I never saw before in my life, big
huskies, and three so-called party leaders, Joe Brandt, Sol Wellman,
and Jack Kling. Jack Kling was the national treasurer of the party.
Sol Wellman was the party leader in Detroit. Joe Brandt was the
party leader in Cleveland, Ohio.
I functioned for years in New York. By what stretch of the imagi-
nation I had to be in a cellar in Clevehuid, Oliio, I don't know.
Mr. Doyle. Of course, you had by your side some able, distin-
guished lawyer to advise you on your constitutional rights all through
that, did you not ?
Mr. Lautner. I only had my own Avits to save my life out of that
predicament in which I found myself.
Mr. Doyle. You had no lawyer?
Mr. Lautner. No.
Mr. Doyle. You were not allowed one?
Mr. Lautner. No.
Mr. Doyle. You were told you had a right to plead your consti-
tutional privilege, were you not?
Mr. I^autner. I was not told so.
Mr. DoTLE. Not in the Commimist Party ?
Mr. Lalttner. No. The Communist Party is a monolithic organ-
ization. You follow orders.
Mr. ScHERER. Mr. Doyle is being just a little facetious to bring out
the fact.
Mr. Doyle. Of course, I have never known of a Communist Party
trial where they did have the right of counsel or to plead their con-
stitutional privilege, and manifestly I am asking you these (juestions in
496 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
this way to know what the fact was in your trial. I never heard the
details of it before.
Mr. Launter. You see, you have an entirely different set of moral,
ethical, and political codes. In the Communist Party which has
certain foundations — and those foundations are so overwhelmingly
more important than the so-called claptrap of constitutional guaran-
ties or trial by jury — party discipline, what is good for the party, the
monolithic nature, the oneness of the party, is much more important
than what happens to one single individual.
Mr. ScHERER. May I ask another question, please ?
Mr. DoTLE, Yes.
Mr. ScHERER. Tills was not as much a trial as an attempt by the use
of force to oblain from you an admission that you were an international
counter-Communist spy ?
Mr. Lautner. Congi'essman, you are too generous. It was an at-
tempt— first they tried to lure me across the ocean behind the Iron
Curtain in December 1949. That didn't succeed because I couldn't
get a passport. If I had been successful in going behind the Iron
Curtain I would not be alive today.
Mr. Scherer. You could not get a passport because the State De-
partment would not issue you a passport because you were a Com-
munist ?
Mr. Lautner. Yes. That didn't work out. I was hurried down
to Cleveland, Ohio, and I was to be done away with. If I had lost
my liead over there, I wouldn't be sitting here today. But, fortu-
nately, a person who was in charge of that wrecking crew had a yellow
spine; and when I tied his name into a Cleveland hotel, he got yellow.
He was afraid to do away with me. So that is how I got away in
that situation.
Mr. DoTLE. You mentioned the last convention when you referred
to the convention last month of the Communist Party in the United
States in New York.
Mr. Lautner. Yes, sir.
Mr. Doyle. I read the record of that convention as definitely as I
could through the press, and I noted that the main written communica-
tion sent to that convention from any foreign country was sent by
Jacques Duclos.
INIr, Lautner. Jacques Duclos.
Mr. DoTLE. The French Communist. He was the man, was he
not, who sent the message from INIoscow under his own name to the
Communist Party convention of the United States in 1945 as a re-
sult of which Earl Browder, then the president of the American
Communist Party, was expelled ?
Of course, Earl Browder stated in his policy that he believed that
the capitalist system, as in vogue in the United States, could survive
and should be allowed to survive along in the same world with Soviet
communism.
Mr. Lautner. That is correct. Browder was for coexistence and
rebuildiiig what was destroyed in the Second World War on the basis
of a coexistence policy. For that he was ousted.
Mr. DoYi^E. So, back in 1945, there was this message from Duclos,
the same French Communist who wrote a letter to the Communist
Party convention last month in New York. He is one and the same
individual.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 497
Mr. Lautner. That is correct.
Mr. DoYLiE. He pronounced that only one economic and social sys-
tem could survive, and that was back in 1945, and he declared to the
American Communists that that Avas the Soviet system, and he said the
same thing again in February 1957.
Mr. Lautner. That is right, and he warned at this time, again, not
to do that foolishness again to organize an association or something of
that sort, maintaining the unity and the oneness of the Communist
Party and to maintain the principle of Marxism-Leninism.
Mr. Doyle. Then you have concrete evidence of the fact that the
American Communist Party in February 1957, at their national con-
vention, was again dominated by Soviet Russia through the same
French agent, Duclos.
Mr. Laui^ner. We don't need Duclos for that, Congi-essman. The
Russians will say it themselves. The reason for the establishment of
the Communist Information Bureau in 1947 was to establish contacts
and exchange experiences. With the dissolution of the Communist
Information Bureau, they have a new political periodical out now,
International Affairs; and all the lead articles talk about tighter con-
tacts, exchange of experiences between the various Communist parties.
That is there. Duclos is just part of this relationship. He pinpoints
them.
Mr. Doyle. In other words, he was used as a mouthpiece.
Mr. Laiti'ner. That is correct.
Mr. Doyle. To communicate this to the American Communist
Party in February of this year.
Mr. Lautner. That is correct.
Mr. Doyle. I understood you to say that the role of the part of the
foreign-language press in our country which is dominated or con-
trolled by the Communists, is to reflect the Communist Party line. I
want to emphasize and agree with Mr. Scherer that Congress does not
claim, and we of the subcommittee do not claim, that all of the for-
eign-language press — naturally, not most of it, we hope — is controlled
by the Communist Party philosophy. But entirely too much of it is
controlled for the safety of our constitutional form of government.
When you say it is to reflect the party line, does that mean that the
party line is projected into the foreign-language press in the United
States deliberately to get across to the immigrants to our country
Mr. Lautner. To the nationality groups.
Mr. Doyle. The Communist line?
Mr. Lautner. That is correct. It is done deliberately in a planned
way and conscientiously.
Mr. Doyle. How do they get it into that part of the foreign-lan-
guage press that uses it? How does it get in there?
Mr. Lautner. I explained that. It comes through consultation,
tlirough party leaders, it comes through suggestions, and it comes
through planning and observing the party line, as party leaders are
in charge of these papers and are party leaders themselves in their
respective nationality groups.
For instance, in Chicago I know in 1946, when I was here on a tour,
our })roblem was to strengthen the nationality group bureaus in Chi-
cago under the leadership of Wagenknecht, district secretary of the
language department here of the Communist Party.
498 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Doyle. Yes, but in 1946 — you remained in the Communist
Party 2 years after you were here in Chicago. Does that mean you
were sent here as a Commmiist agent ?
Mr. Lautner. More than 2 years — in 1946, yes.
Mr. DoYLB. Right here to Chicago ?
Mr. Lautner. That is correct.
Mr. ScHERER. You were not at the hearing, Mr. Doyle, in New
York.
Mr. DoYLE. That is right.
Mr. ScHERER. That was the week before last. But in the hearings
in New York, it was shown that, I believe, there were 26 individuals
called who had been identified as hard-core members of the Communist
Party. So we had a series of foreign-language newspapers in which
the owner, the manager, and the editor were Communists. Of course,
those foreign-language newspapers did a very fine job in conveying
to their readers the Communist Party line and directives. Some of
those newspapers were translated by the translators in the Library of
Congress, and it was evident from merely reading the articles and
editorials that they carried the very latest Russian or Communist
Party line insofar as international and domestic affairs were con-
cerned. This was just week before last.
Mr. Doyle. I think, in view of the testimony of this witness on this
point and the question I asked and the point Mr. Scherer just brought
out, that I should read subdivision (ii) of subsection (q) (2) of Pub-
lic Law 601, which I will relate, and this is one of the assignments that
this subcommittee has today and tomorrow : To investigate —
the diffusion within the United States of subversive and un-American propa-
ganda that Is instigated from foreign countries or of a domestic origin and
attaclis the principle of the form of government as guaranteed by our Consti-
tution.
I am pointing that out so that the record may show, and so that you
folks in the hearing room may know, that we have a specific assignment
to bring out and investigate the extent to which the Commmiist propa-
ganda and activities are brought into our country from foreign
countries.
Mr. ScHEEER. I think we should say further, Mr. Doyle, in order to
clarify a point, that in spite of the fact that it was shown that this
certain number of foreign-language newspapers was completely in
control and dominated by Communists; namely, the editor, owner, and
manager, there is no intent upon the part of this committee to recom-
mend any kind of legislation to hamper those publications or to stop
those publications.
Our sole purpose is to point out the fact that they are Communist
controlled and Communist dominated so that the people who read those
newspapers will know that they are receiving Communist propaganda.
Under the first amendment to the Constitution, we cannot possibly
do anything, and we do not want to do anything, to interfere with the
publication of those foreign-language newspapers tliat are following
the Conununist Party line and are also shown to be conclusively dom-
inated and controlled by Communists.
Mr. Doyle. Thank you, Mr. Scherer,
Now, let me read amendment 1 of the Constitution right at this point,
in line with Mr. Scherer's very timelv observation.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 499
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibit-
ing the free exercise thereof ; or abridging the freedom of speech or of the press ;
or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and to petition the Government
for a redress of grievances.
May I observe, too, for the record and you folks who are here, that
you have heard Mr. Scherer and me discuss some of these things.
Manifestly we do it not only for our own understanding of the prob-
lem, but hearings such as these are printed later in Washington, and
they are furnished to every Member of Congress so that Congress will
be informed on what we are doing and what is brought out and how
the committee proceeds.
Any other question, Mr. Scherer?
Mr. Scherer. No.
Mr. Doyle. Mr. Arens, do you wish to proceed ?
Mr. Arens. The next witness, if you please, Mr. Chairman, is Nellie
DeSchaaf.
Would you kindly come forward ?
Mr. DoYEE. Will you please raise your right hand ?
Do you solemnly swear that you will tell the truth, the whole truth,
and nothing but the truth, so help you God ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I do.
TESTIMONY OF MRS. NELLIE DeSCHAAF, ACCOMPANIED BY
COUNSEL, PEARL M. HART
Mr. Arens. Kindly identify yourself by name, residence, and occu-
pation.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Nellie DeSchaaf, D-e-S-c-h-a-a-f, 759 West 72d
Street, Chicago, housewife.
Mr. Arens. You are appearing today, Mrs. DeSchaaf, in response
to a subpena which was served upon you by the House Committee on
Un-American Activities?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I am.
Mr. Scherer. Could I have that name again, please?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Nellie DeSchaaf, D-e-S-c-h-a-a-f, housewife.
Mr. Arens. You are represented by counsel ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Yes, I am.
Mr. Arens. Counsel, would you kindly identify yourself ?
Mrs. Hakt. Peaii M. Hart, ;')0 North La Salle Street, Chicago, ad-
mitted to the bar, 1913.
Mr. Arens. Are you now, or have you ever been, connected with a
publication known as Vilnis, V-i-1-n-i-s ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Yes ; with the English section.
Mr. Arens. And how long have you been connected with Vilnis ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. From 1950 to 1952.
Mr. Arens. Were you disassociated from Vilnis in 1952 ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. That is right.
Mr. Arens, What is the circulation of Vilnis ? Could you tell us ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel. )
Mrs. DeSchaaf. You stated yourself it was 30,000. I imagine that
shovild be close enough.
Mr. Arens. Have you, since your formal disassociation from the
staif of Vilnis, written articles for Vilnis ?
500 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
(Witness conferred with her counseL)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Yes ; I have on occasion.
Mr. Abens. Do you continue to write articles for Vihiis ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Not for pay.
Mr. ScHERER. Not for pay ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. That is right.
Mr. ScHERER. You continue to write articles not for pay?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. That is right,
Mr. Arens. What language is the foreign-language section of Vilnis
published in ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Lithuanian.
Mr. Arens. Who is the editor ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Well, as I stated before, since I am only an oc-
casional contributor, I don't know who the editor is.
Mr. Arens. AVho was the editor when you were employed by Vilnis
on a full-time basis ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I don't know. I don't know.
Mr. Arens. Who employed you ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. The manager.
Mr. Arens. What was his name ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Mike Pauliukas.
Mr. Arens. Do you read Lithuanian ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. No ; I don't.
Mr. Arens. I have here a photostatic reproduction of an article by
yourself in Vilnis. June 22, 1951, that I lay before you. Will you
be good enough to confirm your authorship of this article? It is
June 22, 1951, Vilnis, English section.
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Yes ; I did write that.
Mr. Arens. I should like, for the purpose of the record, to read the
first 2 or o paragraj^hs of this, Mr. Cliairman.
It is an article entitled "FBI Set To Duplicate Deeds of Despicable
Twenties," by Nellie DeSchaaf.
In 1920, the FBI earned a reputation that ^nhoecl not only throughout our
land — but also throughout Europe and the entire world.
By their unwarranted brutality against the noneitizens, whom they crammed
into prisons, tortured ; by their infamous midnight and predawn raids, practiced
only in countries where democracy is nonexistent, the FBI earned the hatred of
every decent man and woman.
Thirty-one years later, the bloodhound hunt is on again. This time, how-
ever, not only against the foreign born, but against every individual who dares
to speak out against the injustices and corruption which are taken for granted
by our so-called representatives of democracy.
Once more, as in the disgraceful twenties, the newspapers will be able to
scream, "FBI Rounds Fp 17 Red Chiefs"' ; "Nab Brain Trust in New York, Pitts-
burgh, Charge Anti- United States Plot."
It would be very interesting to dig up the old copies of the newspapers in the
1920's—
And so forth.
Was this article also translated into Lithuanian?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I would not know. I had no connection with the
Lithuanian section.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 501
Mr. Arens. Was this article put in the paper at the instance of any-
one known by you to be a member of the Communist Party ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. No ; it wasn't.
Mr. Arens. Were you a Communist when you w^rote the article ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the basis of the fifth amend-
ment.
Mr. Arens. Are you now a Communist?
Mrs, DeSchaaf. I refuse for the same reason.
Mr. Scherer. Did you have any help from anyone in writing that
article ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. No; I didn't. Ancl I would like to say further
that there w^as no connection between the Lithuanian and the Eng-
lish, no one had to dictate. I wrote exactly as I pleased.
Mr. Scherer. Did anyone do any research for you that enabled
you to write it?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. No. I did that myself. Anything pertaining to
English, no one had anything to do with that except myself.
Mr. Scherer. You did the research for the information that was
contained in that article?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. That is right.
(Document marked "DeSchaaf Exhibit No. 1," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arens. Do you have any connection with the organization
known as Committee To Preserve American Freedoms?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. I lay before you now a printed document which came to
the attention of this committee just a day or so ago, "Your Right To
Head Newspapers, To Buy Books, To See Films Is Challenged by the
House Committtee on Un-American Activities."
On Tuesday, March 26, ancl Thursday, March 28, several of your fellow citieens
have been summoned to appear for inquisition before the House Un-American
Activities Committee (the Walter committee) at the Federal courthouse in Chi-
cago. Their crime : They publish newspapers, sell books, or exhibit films that the
bigots on the Walter committee don't like.
The most un-American activity in the United States is the conduct of the
congressional Committee on Un-American Activities. It is so viciously flagrant
a violation of every element of common decency associated with human liberty
that it is a foul mockery on all that Jefferson and Lincoln made articulate in
their dreams of a cleaner, finer order on earth —
and so forth, listing in here the number of people wlio have been sub-
penaed by this committee to appear, calling upon the people of this
community to telephone and write John S. Knight's Detroit Free
Press; to alert their friends and neighbors, church and club members;
calling upon people to write their Congressmen to urge the abolition
of this committee, and it lists here the names of certain Congressmen,
urging the people to attend the hearings here today ; and finally there
is an appeal for funds.
Please look at this document, madam, while you are under oath and
tell this committee if you know its source and origin.
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
502 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer that on the basis of the first and
fifth amendments.
(Document marked "DeSchaaf Exhibit No. 2," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arens. While you are under oath, I should like to liave a
response to this question : Do you honestly feel that if you told this
committee truthfully the knowledge you have respecting the source
of that document and the Committee To Preserve American Free-
doms, you would be supplying information which might be used
against you in a criminal proceeding ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaff. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that the witness
be ordered to answer that question. The reason for that question is to
see whether or not she is invoking the fifth amendment in good faith.
The only reason whereby she can invoke the fifth amendment is if
she has a true, honest apprehension that, in response to the question,
she will give information that might be used against her in a criminal
proceeding.
Mr. Doyle. I instruct the witness to answer that last question. The
committee cannot accept the answer you made as a legal, constitutional
exercise. We do not believe it is a lawful, legal, and permissible
answer to that question to justify you to plead the amendments.
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer that again for the same reasons
I gave before on the first and the fifth that I shall not be required
to testify against myself.
Mr. Arens. Did you write that document or the essence of that
document ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Same answers as before.
Mr. Arens. I should like to read now, if you please, Mr. Chairman,
an article appearing in Vilnis under date of March 22, 1957, by Nellie
DeSchaaf. I should like to read excerpts from it. First of all, it
discusses the subpenas, pursuant to which a number of people were
called before this committee, and then it proceeds as follows :
Readers are given the opportunity to assess the forthrightness of their papers
by the number of subpenas issued by the Un-American Committee for the
March 26 hearings.
The "Vilnis" really rang the bell with five subpenas, for the following —
Here are listed the names of the people. Then we find this:
Those readers, whose papers did not receive a subpena, have a very good cause
for reproaching their editors. Had their newspapers not limited themselves to
reprinting only those items appearing in any and every newspaper, they, too,
might have earned the name of newspaper.
At the Un-American Committee's last visit to Chicago, in which the targets
were the Midwest committe and other foreign-born defense groups, the hearing
room fairly bubbled— —
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Bulged.
Mr. Arens (reading) :
bulged at the seams.
All seats were occupied and people stood in lines at the door —
and so forth.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 503
With Harvey O'Connor, author, and Carl Braden, newspaperman of Louisville,
Ky., heading a commitee to publicize the coming hearings as widely as possible
we are expecting a [sic] church groups, lawyers, trade unionists, many foreign-
born, and others are expected to attend.
Do come, too, won't you?
You authored that article; did you not?
Mrs. DeSciiaaf. Yes : I did.
Mr. Arens. And you know, of course, you had a right to author that
article.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. That is right.
Mrs. Arexs. You, of course, know that no one is trying to impede
you in the authorship of that article, do you not ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. That all depends on what you mean by "impede."
Mr. Arens. "Were you under the discipline of the Communist con-
spiracy when you wrote this article?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. No one told me. I wrote that myself.
Mr. Arens. Were you under the discipline of the Communist con-
spiracy when you wrote this article ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. No, I wasn't.
Mr. Arens. Were you a Communist when you wrote this article?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
(Document marked "DeSchaaf Exhibit No. 3," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arens. I should like to ask you if you would be good enough
to identify your own photograph for us here. We have two photo-
graphs of yourself here in the Rosenberg clemency picket, June 16,
1953. Please look at those two photographs and, while under oath,
if you will be good enough to, identify your own physical features
as they appear in those photographs.
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer, first of all because I don't think
the question is pertinent to the purpose for which your committee was
created, and, further, my refusal is based on the first and fifth amend-
ments.
(Documents marked "DeSchaaf Exhibit No. 4," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arens. Do you honestly apprehend if you told this committee
truthfully whether or not these photographs are photographs of your-
self, you would be supplying information which might be used against
you in a criminal proceeding ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf, I refuse to answer on the same basis of the two
reasons I gave before.
Mr. Scherer. Mr. Chairman, I ask that you direct the witness to
answer the question.
May I make this explanation ? When you invoke the fifth amend-
ment, madam, the courts have said that if the committee or counsel
feel that you might not be invoking it properly, they should and must
ask you the question whether or not you honestly believe that, if you
answered the question, it might lead to a criminal prosecution. Your
only answer to that question can be "Yes," if you are invoking the fifth
amendment properly. If you do not answer that question "Yes" and
invoke the fifth amendment instead, then you are placing yourself in
504 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
contempt of this committee. So I just want to advise you and tell you
what the law is, because you cannot plead the fifth amendment to a
question as to whether you are invoking the fifth amendment in good
faith.
Mr, Doyle. I think, Mr. Scherer, we have a right to assume, to
a certain extent, that she know^s what the law is because she has counsel
with her and consults her frequently.
Mr. Scherer. I want to make it abmidantly clear.
Mr. Doyle. I am glad that you did.
Mr. Scherer. And warn her tliat the only answer to that question
can be "Yes." She can answer "No," but then that, of course, is not
invoking the fifth amendment in good faith.
Mr. Doyle. That is right. Mr. Arens, while the counsel and her
witness are conferring, may I have the date of those photos, please, the
date indicated of that picket line ?
Mr. Arens. June 16, 1953.
Mr. Doyle. Thank you.
Mr. Arens. Is there a question outstanding on this ?
Mr. Scherer. She has not answered the direction, Mr. Chairman.
I assume there is.
Mr. Doyle. I will make it clear as soon as she is through.
Mrs. Hart. Let the chairman give the question.
Mr. Doyle. Witness, I wish to direct you to answer that last ques-
tion. The committee cannot accept it as sufficient claim of the fifth
amendment.
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer because the question is not
pertinent to the purpose for which this committee is created and
also on the grounds of the first and fifth amendments which state
very clearly that I am not compelled to testify against myself.
Mr. Arens. On June 27, 1952, American boys were fighting in
Korea. I would like to invite your attention to 1 or 2 excerpts from
the Vilnis Weekly Review, English section, of that date, and then
ask you a question or two about them :
Compound No. 76 of this POW camp is dark and poorly ventilated. Its
quarters are in utter darlcness, devoid of bedding. It has 18 torture rooms
and 6 steam rooms in which Americans put the captives to death by live steana.
In addition, there are four gallows.
The American gangsters —
That is, the soldiers representing the country under whose flag you
have protection
Mrs. DeSchaaf. All right.
Mr. Arens (reading) :
The American gangsters treated the POW'8 like beasts. They starve pris-
oners and imposed forced labor on us every day, despite our hunger. Our two
meals daily were inadequate and consisted of coarse food. We had rice only
once a week.
The American robbers tortured captured personnel on the flimsiest pretexts.
They also often starved prisoners to death.
As was the case with other captives, the American gangsters tried to make
me sign the so-called "petition" in blood, but I refused.
Were you a member of the staff of Vilnis Weekly Review on June
27, 1952?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
INVESTIGATION OF COIvIMXJNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S. 505
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Yes ; I was at that time.
Mr. Arens. Do you recall this particular article that appeared
in it?
Mi-s. DeSchaaf. No, I don't.
Mr. Arens. May I lay it before you and see if it refreshes your
recollection.
Mrs. DeSchaaf, Yes.
Mr. Arens. It is an account, according to the introduction there —
I haven't read the entire article — reporting the situations presumed
to exist then in the American prisoner-of-war camps for the enemy.
]\Ir. DoTLE. Where were those camps located ?
Mr. Arens. Koje. I do not want to read the whole article. It is
too long.
j\Ir. ScHERER. Does the article indicate who the author was?
jSIr. Arens. Yes, sir.
Mrs. Hart. AYhat is the question, Mr. Arens ?
INIr. Arens. Does the article now before you refresh your recol-
lection as to the time of its appearance and its content?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I would like to point out this was taken from the
Korean Independent, and it was not my statement as to exactly — I do
remember that. This is the source right here [indicating]. Just as
you would have the Federated Press, so that was not my editorial.
Mr. Arens. I did not suggest that it was.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I said this was the source and that is exactly why I
remember the article.
Mr. Arens. That is exactly the point I am going to develop in a
minute. Where did that article originate ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. In the Korean Independent.
Mr. Arens. In North Korea?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. No. It was in Los Angeles, Calif.
Mr. Arens. Was that incorporated in your paper with your knowl-
edge and consent ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. If I put it in there.
Mr. Arens. Did you put it in ? That is the question.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Certainly.
Mr. Scherer. She had that inserted in that paper ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Because that was from the Korean Independent.
Mr. Arens. Do I understand your answer to be that you inserted
that article ? I understood you got it from the Korean Independent.
But you placed the article in this particular newspaper, is that right ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Yes, I did.
Mr. Arens. Did you make any investigation before you put this in
the paper for circulation in this community as to whether or not the
"American gangsters treated the POW's like beasts" ? Did you make
any investigation, before you put this in your paper as an assertion of
fact, to determine whether or not the American soldiers who were
fighting for you and for the preservation of our Republic were starv-
ing prisoners and were imposing forced labor on the prisoners ? Did
you make any investigation to ascertain whether or not that was the
truth before you caused that to be printed in this publication ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Would you repeat that question ?
90844 — 57 — pt. 7 3
506 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Arens. The essence of the question is : Did you make any inves-
tigation to ascertain whether or not the content of this article was true,
which so severely indicted and condemned our soldier boys, before you
published it in this paper ?
(Witness conferred with her comisel.)
Mr. ScHERER. Did that appear during the Korean war, Mr. Counsel ?
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir ; Jmie 27, 1952.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I just can't follow that question.
Mr. Arens. Let me just i-ead you another sentence, and let me ask
you if you made any investigation before you put this in your paper or
had any quahns of conscience before you ran this :
* * * the American crime of manhandling, torturing, and butchering captured
personnel have blown skyhigh the American lies about "voluntary repatriation,"
"humanitarian principles," and the like.
Did you make any investigation to ascertain whether or not our
American troops in Korea were butchering prisoners of war, were
engaged in all kinds of inhumanitarian practices before you caused
this article to be placed in this publication ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeScpiaaf. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first amend-
ment.
(Document marked "DeSchaaf Exhibit No. 5," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest she be ordered
and directed to answer that question.
Mr. Doyle. The committee cannot accept that as a sufficient answer,
as a claim for any legal reason why you should not answer the question.
I therefore direct you to answer that question.
(Witness conferred with her coimsel.)
Mr. Arens. Is there a question outstanding?
Mr. Scherer. There is a question, and she has not answered it.
Mrs. Ha.rt. I thought there wasn't
Mr. DoTLE. I directed the witness.
Witness, did you not hear me direct you to answer the question?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I don't know whether there was a question or not.
Mrs. Hart. Would you like to start that one again ?
Mr. Arens. There is a direction by the chairman to the witness to
answer the question. The question is whether or not she made any
investigation to ascertain the truth of the very serioiTS charges con-
tained in this article which she caused to be placed in this paper.
(The witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first amend-
ment and also the fifth amendment, that I need not testify against
myself; and, further, the committee informed us that your purpose
was not to legislate for purposes of the press, but only to identify
persons, so I do not feel this is relevant to this committee.
Mr. Scherer. All right. Witness, you refused to answer the ques-
tion as to whether you investigated the truth or falsity of the charges
of the article you had placed in this newspaper. It is obvious to the
committee that you did not care about the truth or the falsity of the
charges.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Brother.
INVESTIGATION OF COIMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 507
Mr. ScHERER. I ^Yant to ask you this question, whether or not you
actually believed this statement which you caused to be inserted and
circulated in this newspaper :
Compound No. 76 of this POW camp is dark and poorly ventilated. Its quar-
ters are in utter darkness, devoid of bedding. It has IS torture rooms and 6
steam rooms in which Americans put the captives to death by live steam. In
addition, there are 4 gallows.
I am not asking you whether you investigated the truth or falsity
of those charges. I am asking whether or not, when you inserted that,
you actually believed those charges?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. My personal beliefs are no concern of the commit-
tee, I don't feel.
Mr. ScHERER. I ask you to direct the witness to answer the question.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the basis of the fifth amend-
ment, that I don't have to testify against myself.
Mr. ScHERER. Witness, this article was published in this newspaper
at the time we were engaged in war. Do you know what the clefini-
tion of treason is? Do you know what constitutes treason under the
law ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I don't Imow what your definition is.
Mr. ScHERER. What is your defuiition ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer.
yir. Scherer. You know that treason is giving aid and comfort to
the enemy in time of war. You know that, do you not ? You might
ask your lawyer if that is not a correct definition.
j\Irs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
Mr. Scherer. Is it not a fact that this article published during a
time of war was giving aid and comfort to the enemy, whether or not
the facts in this article were true or false ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeScha^vf. I refuse to answer for the same reasons as before.
Mr. Arens. I would like to ask you about this publication in which
it was reprinted.
According to this article, the original article was published in the
paper called the People's Army News. From whence did you procure
the article that was reprinted in Vilnis Weekly Eeview ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the first and the fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. Arens. You told us you got something from the Korean Inde-
pendent. What was it you got from the Korean Independent ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer under the first and fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. Arens. Do you know the editor of the Korean Independent?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the same basis.
Mr. Arens. Why ? The Korean Independent is likewise a Commu-
nist-controlled publication of which Peter Hyun, a Communist, is
editor.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the same reasons as before.
Mr. Doyle. Do you know Peter Hyun ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Same answer.
Mr. Arens. Peter Hyun. H-y-u-n.
508 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. ScHERER. I request that you direct the witness to answer the
question.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Same answer as given before.
Mr. Doyle. Witness, you are directed to answer the question.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer it as I did before on the first
and fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. Give us the names of persons known by you to be identi-
fied in an official status with Vihiis.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the grounds of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. You know who are identified in official status with
Vilnis, do you not ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse for the same reasons.
Mr. Scherer. Witness, were you born in this country ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I don't think that is pertinent to the purpose for
which this committee was created.
Mr. Scherer. I ask you to direct
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer.
Mr. Scherer. Wait a minute madam,
I ask you to direct the witness to answer the question whether or
not she was born in the United States because, if she was not born in
the United States or naturalized, I have a motion I want to make.
Mr. Doyle. The committee takes the position that it has a legal right
to ask any question pertinent to identification of a witness before it,
whether or not the person is an American citizen. So, I direct you,
Witness, to answer Mr. Scherer's question whether or not you were
born in the United States of America.
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Well, even though I don't feel that question is
pertinent to the purpose, but just for your own information, Mr.
Scherer, I was born here.
Mr. Scherer. Where were you born ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer.
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the ques-
tion as to where she was born.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question as to where you
were born.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. West Frankfort, 111.
Mr. Arens. Who is Jacob Pauliukas — P-a-u-1-i-u-k-a-s ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer under the first and fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. Arens. Wlio is Alice Yonik — Y-o-n-i-k ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer for the same reason.
Mr. Arens. She succeeded you as the regular editor of the English
section of Vilnis, did she not ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer for the same reason.
Mr. Arens. You contributed an article just about a week ago ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer.
Mr. Arens. Who is Leon Pruseika — P-r-u-s-e-i-k-a ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer for the same reasons.
Mr. Arens. Who is Vincent Andrulis — A-n-d-r-u-1-i-s ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer for the same reasons.
Mr. Arens. They are all officials of Vilnis, are they not ?
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 509
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer under the first and fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. Abends. I respectfully submit, Mr. Chairman, that concludes
the staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. Doyle. May I ask a few questions, please ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Yes ; you may.
Mr. Doyle. I think the record will show, madam, when you were
asked the first time where this article that you stated you had inserted
in this Vilnis Weekly Review for June 27, 1952, came from, you
stated you got it from the Korean Independent, Los Angeles, Calif.
Los Angeles Coimty is my home, and I represent one of the districts
in that county. Therefore, I am particularly interested in your
answer.
I see from this photostat of this sheet, page 2, that you not only
printed that insert, but you printed two others of a like nature. I
will not take time to go into those.
When you were on the paid staff of this paper, were you in the habit
of publishing portions of releases from the Korean Independent, Los
Angeles, Calif. ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the gromids of the first
amendment.
Mr. Arens. Do you know anything about a group called the Chi-
cago Committee To Preserve Freedom of Speech and the Press ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. I lay before you a leaflet which I understand was dis-
tributed by a picket line here in Chicago just this morning. This
leaflet is circulated, according to its heading, by the Chicago Com-
mittee To Preserve Freedom of Speech and the Press.
Please look at that and see if you can tell is if you have any informa-
tion respecting that organization.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the same grounds that I gave
before.
(Document marked "DeSchaaf Exhibit No. 6," and retained in
committee files. )
Mr. Arexs. Do you feel, if you told this committee truthfully such
information as yovi have respecting the Chicago Committee to Pre-
serve Freedom of Speech and the Press, you would be supplying in-
formation which might be used against you in a criminal proceedmg ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer for the same reasons, the first
and fifth.
IVIr. Arens. I respectfully submit that the witness be directed to
answer the question.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer that last question, if you please.
Mr. ScHERER. If she invokes the fifth amendment to that question,
this member of this committee, at least, wants to say, in his opinion,
you are clearly in contempt of the committee.
Mr. Doyle. Well, two members of the committee feel the same.
Mr. ScHERER. The law is clear on that question.
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I know that, under the fifth amendment, I do
not have to be a witness against myself, and I do feel that your pur-
pose is for the purpose of intimidation.
510 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest that the witness now be ordered
and directed to answer that question. There is no question but that
she is under an order to express to this committee whether or not, if
she told truthfully such information as she has respecting the Chicago
Committee To Preserve Freedom of Speech and the Press, she would
be supplying information that might be used against her in a criminal
proceeding.
Mr. DoYT.E. Witness and counsel, so there will be no misunderstand-
ing— counsel, please, I want to instruct your client again to answer
that last question.
Excuse me for interrupting, but I wanted the witness to get that
the second time. I am instructing her to answer that question.
Mrs. Hart. May I make a statement on behalf of the witness?
Mr. Doyle. No ; I am sorry.
Mrs. Hart. If the court please
Mr. Arens. Your sole and specific prerogative under the rules of
this committee is to advise the witness.
Mrs. Hart. I can speak almost as loud as you can. I know what
the rules are.
Mr. Arens. You know you are in violation of the rules of the com-
mittee when you address the chairman or the committee except to
Mrs. Hart. I may address the chairman. This is still the United
States of America. I am going to ask the chairman if I may address
the chairman. If he says "No," I won't.
Mr. Dotle. Counsel, we do not permit counsel to get into discussion
and get into argument with the committee. I read the rule, and I
insist on all counsel complying with the rule of the committee which
limits you to talk to your client and not to the committee.
Mrs. Hart. Tliat makes it very difficult, Mr. Chairman.
Mr. Doyle. We are both lawyers, and we realize that you have the
privilege to advise your client on constitutional rights. We are
glad you are here for that purpose.
Mrs. Hart. I am here as a matter of right, not as a matter of
privilege, Mr. Chairman.
Mr. Scherer. No ; you are here as a matter of privilege.
Mrs. Hart. I disagree with the Congressman. May I have the
direction again, please?
Mr. Doyle. I direct you. Witness, to answer the last question.
This is the second time I have instructed you — I think the record
will show — to answer the question.
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the same grounds of the first
and fifth amendments, that I am not required to testify against
myself.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I suggest that each of the various docu-
ments which have been alluded to this morning be appropriately
marked and incorporated in the record by reference.
Mr. Doyle. May I see the first sheet, please ?
May I be privileged to ask you a couple of questions. Witness?
First, I wish to just make this observation for the record in your
presence. I see that this article which you inserted in this Vilnis
Weekly Review, Chicago, for Friday, June 27, 1952, refers to it as 1
of 3 letters purporting to be letters from escaped Korean prisoners
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 511
of war to the Korean People's Armj'. That is the army in Xorth
Korea.
I just wish to say, Witness, some of us had sons who gave their lives
for this country and for you. I am one of them. I consider this
as a dastardly libel and slander of eA^ery boy in the American Army,
Air Force, Navy, and Marine uniform. I think you were part of it,
knowingly. You coidd not have helped but have Imown that this
would shinder and libel, in the mind of every person who read it,
every boy in the American uniform, because you did not identify the
men charged with this dastardly crime. You let it go as it was
printed. I think you ought to be ashamed of yourself.
I want to repeat it. I consider it, as a Member of Congress, a
dastardly libel and slander of every boy and girl in the American
Army, Air Force, Navy, and jNIarine uniform during the last war.
That is what you can expect from a Communist-controlled paper
in wartime or even in peacetime. I have no sympathy for you having
done this despicable thing. I do not think you need any sympathy,
either.
Mr. ScHERER. xVnd she smiles.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. Wlio is smiling ?
Mr. ScHERER. Let me ask anotlier question.
Mr. Doyle. Let me finish.
Mr. ScHERER. I am sorry.
Mr. Doyle. And as to this sheet headed "Your Eight," apparently
issued bv the Committee To Preserve American Freedoms, room
504, 208 North Wells Street, Chicago, 111., "Harvey O'Connor, chair-
man ; Cecile Trace, vice chairman ; Carl Braden, secretary-treasurer,"
and on the bottom it says "Labor donated," I would assume that no
organized labor shop would print this filthy thing.
Mr. Arens, our counsel, asked you a question about an article you
wrote in June 1951.
Would you refresh my memory, please? Were you on the paid
staff of this Vilnis newspaper then in June 1951? You gave a date
when you were.
j\Irs. DeSchaaf. I think I was.
Mr. Doyle. Here is what you wrote in that article as I wrote it
down : "Bloodhound hunt is on again." — -"Our so-called representatives
of democracy" — "our so-called representatives of democracy."
If that isn't a Commie line, I don't know what is.
And then on the back of this sheet, "Your Right," we find this:
Write our Congressmen and urge abolition of the House Committee on
Un-American Activities. Chicago area Congressmen are —
and then you list every Member of Congress from the Chicago area.
I want to say that we consider every Member of Congress as a
patriotic and devoted representative trying to represent the cause
of democracy, and apparently you do not. I would consider your
statement when you said "so-called representatives of democracy" as
a libel and a slander on every Congressman from the Chicago area;
and that is what you intended it to be, I believe, when you wrote
that article in June 1951.
Now, I want to ask you, as long as you are part and parcel of
this sheet that you have circulated, and had circulated, to try to
512 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
embarrass this committee, do you consider that any member of the
Chicago delegation or Illinois delegation in the House of Repre-
sentatives is only a "so-called representative of democracy"? Who
is a "so-called representative of democracy" from Illinois on either
side of the aisle ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. That question certainly is not pertinent to the pur-
pose of this committee, sir.
Mr. Doyle. You printed an article attacking, in effect, every Mem-
ber of the United States Congi-ess because you designated us as "so-
called representatives of democracy," therefore making light deliber-
ately of the constitutional form of our Government. And, what you
intended to do, in my book, was to weaken the constitutional form of
Government in the mind of every person who read this attack by you.
If you think my words are too strong, they are not too strong. I
get fed up on you folks who feel you have the privilege to destroy, by
subversion and innuendo, the constitutional form of government ; and
that is what you did, young lady, when very obviously you attacked,
on this sheet here, every member of the Illinois delegation in connec-
tion with this statement that the "bloodhound hunt is on again," and
we have "so-called representatives of democracy." That is another
commie attack in my book.
One thing more: From that article of June 1951, you called the
efforts of the FBI to run down the Communist conspiracy in this
country a "bloodhound hunt," again deliberately and dastardly accus-
ing our Federal Bureau of Investigation of being a bunch of blood-
hounds. That is what you intended to do, and I notice some folks
smiling in the audience. That is all right, smile.
But I do not dare speak out when I see a lousy, filthy attack like
this. The trouble is we have to observe the constitutional rights of
citizens in doing it.
I want to read the paragraph. This appeared in Vilnis, June 22,
1951, under your byline. Wlien we print this in the hearings of this
committee, I want every citizen who has a patriotic streak in him to
know the kind of filth you spread out.
Thirty-one years later, tlie bloodhound hunt is on again. This time, however,
not only against the foreign-born, but against EVERY individual who dares to
speak out against the injustices and corruption which are taken for granted by
our so-called representatives of democracy.
I wish to say my father was foreign born. I am always proud of
him.
Mr. ScHERER. INIay I ask one more question ?
Mr. Doyle. Let me just finisli, please.
In this sheet you charge this hearing today and tomorrow with
being an inquisition. You use that term in this sheet you helped
edit and write and circulate. That is my conclusion. But I think the
great majority of people who are in this room, as well as the American
public, whenever they think of you, will look at you with shame when
you have called this sort of thing an inquisition.
I think, with God's help, we ought to get more power to inquire into
the dastardly attacks j^ou make and have made, according to the record,
on the American Military Establishment and on the FBI. The trouble
is, we do not have enough help to expose the real intended purpose of
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 513
people who write filth such as you have written in these papers. And
I have no apologies for saying just what I said.
Mrs. Hart. May I direct a question to the Chair, please ?
Mr. Doyle. Yes, I will let you ask one question, counsel.
Mrs. Hart. It is on this, Mr. Chairman. You have made some very
strong remarks in relation to this young lady, and she is given abso-
lutely no opportunity under the rules to answer. Now, I can under-
stand how you feel. I am raising no criticism about that, you see.
But it is a situation which just isn't fair. You are sitting on the dais
in a position of authority
Mr. Doyle. You asked the privilege to ask a question, not make a
speech.
Mrs. Hart. You know what I want to ask.
Mr. Doyle. All right. If this young lady wants to speak as to what
she wrote in these articles and why she wrote them, yes, we will give
her time right now. She has a chance to answer my statements if she
wants to. I will give her the chance to answer.
Go ahead, young lady, answer it. Do go ahead, young lady. Your
counsel said you did not have a chance to answer any criticism.
Mrs. Hart. "VVliat I want to point out, though, is your personal
criticism of her. Do we want the Chair to indulge in personalities?
That is the question I ask.
JNIr. Doyle. What do you want me, and what do you expect me, to
do — just sit here while every member of the Illinois delegation has been
libeled and slandered by her attack ?
Airs. Hart. You may sound indignant. She, nevertheless, has the
right under the Constitution
Mr. Doyle. I have the right, too, under the Constitution, to say what
I conclude from her evidence.
I will give you the chance, young lady. Go ahead. "WHiy did you
print this filthy, lousy thing, charging the American military with
butchering human beings ? AYliy did you print it ? Give the Ameri-
can public your justification if you have one.
Mrs. Hart. The question, if the Chair please
Mr. Doyle. Now, counsel
Mrs. Hart. With reference to your personal attack upon her, noth-
ing else.
^Ir. Doyle. Yes, go ahead and answer it.
Mrs. Hart. That doesn't respond to your personal attack.
Mr. Doyle. Answer what I said to you, young lady, if you want
to.
Mrs. Hart. You used such words as lousy this and that and the
other thing. I don't think it is dignified for the Chair to use that
toward the witness who is subpenaed here.
Mr. D0Y1.E. I cannot find in the English language, within my limited
knowledge, words that are strong enough to describe that kind of
garbage, can you ?
Mrs. Hart. That is all right, but a person, and certainly the chair-
man, certainly ought to be restrained enough to maintain his position
as chairman without being so critical personally. That is the point
I am making.
Mr. Doyle. Wlien your own son and hundreds of thousands of other
sons have died in the uniform of the American military to protect our
514 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
freedom, what do you expect me to do when there is this sort of ma-
licious attack on them ?
Mrs. Hart. It is to investigate, not circulate and indulge in per-
sonalities. That is all I am saying.
Mr. Doyle. I am not indulging in personalities. I am indulging
in the statement of a writer — a writer for \)n.y, if you please, when she
wrote this — an attack on the American Military Establishment and
the policy of the United States Congress.
Mrs. Hart. You have a right to disagree and so has she.
Mr. DoTLE. Did you have a c[uestion, Mr. Scherer ?
Mr. Scherer. Now, as to this publication, Witness, that Mr. Doyle
is talking to you about, entitled "Your Eight," published by the Com-
mittee to Preserve American Freedoms, it is indicated that that com-
mittee has its headquarters at room 504, 208 North Wells Street,
Chicago 6, 111. As a matter of fact, that was Connnunist Party head-
quarters, was it not ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Scherer. You know,, as a matter of fact, do you not. Witness,
that that was Communist Party headquarters, that very room ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. The same reasons, the same answer.
Mr. Scherer. Have j^ou traveled abroad in the last 10 years?
Mrs. DeSchaaf, I don't feel that is pertinent to the purpose this
committee was created for.
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the
question.
Mrs. DeSchaaf. And I refuse to answer on the basis of the first
and fifth amendments.
Mr. Doyle. Let me give the instruction and then answer whatever
way you feel is your privilege. I instruct you to answer that last
question Mr. Scherer asked you.
Mrs. Hart. As to whether she ever traveled abroad — ^that is the
question ?
Mr. Doyle. Yes. We think it is a matter of identification of a
newspajDer which we believe is Communist-controlled on which she
was a paid member of the staff and, manifestly, saw to it that there
was inserted in this Vilnis Weekly Review false news items, orio;inat-
ing from Communist sources. We believe it is a pertinent question.
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. So, will you repeat your question again?
Mr. Scherer. Have you ever traveled abroad ?
Mrs. DeSchaaf. And the answer is "No."
Mr. Scherer. Have you ever received any compensation from the
Communist Party ?
(Witness conferred with her counsel.)
Mrs. DeSchaaf. That is too ridiculous, but I still refuse to answer
under the first and fifth amendments.
Mr. Scherer. "\Yliether ridiculous or not, have you ever received
any compensation
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer.
Mr. Scherer. Wait just a minute. Have you ever received any com-
pensation, either directly or indirectly, from the Communist Party?
INVESTIGATION OF COIMMTJNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 515
Mrs. DeSchaaf. I refuse to answer for the same reasons I gave
before.
Mr. ScHERER. I liave no further questions.
Mr. Doyle. Mr. Arens, any other questions ?
Mr. Arens. No. Thank you, sir.
Mr. Doyee. The witness, then, is excused.
Mrs. Hart. Thank you, sir.
Mr. Arens. The next witness, Mr. Chairman, if you please, will
be Jacob Pauliukas.
]Mr. Doyle. Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth,
and nothing but the truth, so help you, God ?
Mr. PAULiuiiAS. I do.
Mr. DoYLE. Thank you. Have the witness chair.
TESTIMONY OF JACOB PAULIUKAS, ACCOMPANIED BY COUNSEL,
IKVING G. STEINBERG
Mr. Arens. Kindly identfy yourself my name, residence, and oc-
cupation.
Mr. Pauliukas. My name is Jacob Pauliukas. I live at 5447 West
23d Street, Cicero, 111.
Mr. Scherer. I did not get the name.
Mr. Pauliukas. Jacob Pauliukas.
Mr. Scherer. Jacob?
Mr. Pauliukas. Jacob.
Mr. Scherer. And I did not get the last name.
Mr. Pauliukas. Pauliukas, P-a-u-1-i-u-k-a-s.
Mr. Scherer. B-a-u
Mr. Pauliukas. P like in Paul.
Mr. Scherer. P-a-u
Mr. Pauliukas. 1-i-u-k-a-s-.
Mr. x\rens. Your occupation, please, sir.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the first and fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. Scherer. i\Ir. Chairman, I ask that you direct the witness
to answer the question as to his occupation.
Mr, Doyle. I direct the witness to answer the question.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse on the fifth amendment to answer the
question. I don't want to incriminate mj^self .
Mr. Scherer. AVhere were you born?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the first and fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the ques-
tion as to where he was born.
Mr. Doyle. You are directed, witness.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments. I don't want to incriminate myself.
Mr. Scherer. Mr. Chairman, I cannot possibly see how answering
my question as to his birthplace could incriminate him and again I
might say, in the opinion of this member of the committee, the witness,
by refusing to answer, places himself in contempt.
516 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Doyle. I would not think lie committed any act, when he was
born, by his own self that would incriminate him.
I instruct you to answer the question. Witness. We believe we are
entitled to the identification of a witness as to where you were born.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to testify agamst the fifth amendment,
against myself.
Mr. ScHERER. Are you a citizen of the United States?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to testify against myself.
Mr. DoTLE. Answer the question. We are certainly entitled to
know whether we have a citizen of the United States before us.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the fifth amendment.
]\Ir. ScHERER. Are you a naturalized citizen of the United States ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer.
Mr. ScHERER. Direct the witness to answer the question.
Mr. DoTLE. You are directed to answer the question. Witness.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer.
Mr. ScHERER. Where did you go to school ?
Mr. Steinberg. Let him finish the answer.
Mr. Pauliukas. I don't want to testify against m3^self .
Mr. Scherer. Wliere did you go to school ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the grounds of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Scherer. I request that you direct the witness to answer the
question.
Mr. DoTLE. I direct you to answer the question. Witness.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the fifth amendment. I do
not have to be compelled.
Mr. Scherer. Did you ever go to school ?
Mr. Steinberg. You are not giving him a chance to finish the
answers.
Mr. Scherer. Did you ever go to school ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer.
Mr. Scherer. Will you ask the witness to keep his voice up so that
we can hear when he is finished ?
Mr. Steinberg. I will.
Mr. Scherer. Did you ever go to school ?
Mr. Pauliukas. Wliat is the question ?
Mr. Scherer. Did you ever go to school ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the basis of the fifth amend-
ment.
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the
question.
Mr. DoTLE. You are directed to answer the question, Witness.
I say this to the witness. You have worthy legal counsel by your-
self. If you want plenty of time to counsel with him before you
answer, you may. Do you understand me ?
Mr. Pauliukas. Yes.
Mr. DoTLE. All right.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer ; this question has nothing to do
with this problem on the fifth amendment.
ISIr. Scherer. Would you tell the committee of your educational
background ?
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 517
Mr. Pauliukas. Same way. I refuse to answer ; the same gromids.
Mr. ScHERER. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the ques-
tion.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question.
Mr. ScHERER. Did you say what is your present address?
Mr. Steinberg. You are not giving him a chance to answer. There
was a direction to the question he didn't answer.
Mr. Scherer. I thought he had.
Mr. Steinberg. He didn't have a chance.
Mr. Scherer. Would you ask the witness to talk louder?
Mr. Steinberg. I will. He has difficulty understanding English,
you see, and it is a little hard.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer. This has nothing to do with
this particular investigation. Also, I refuse because I don't want to
testify against myself on the fifth amendment.
]Mr. Scherer. Your counsel said you have difficulty in understand-
ing English. What language do you understand ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer.
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the ques-
tion.
Mr. Doyle. I direct the witness to answer the question.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer the question.
Mr. Scherer. What language do you understand ?
JNIr. Steinberg. Would you let him finish ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Steinberg. Answer the question.
Mr. Pauliukas. "V^^iat is the question ?
Mr. Steinberg. Would you repeat the question, please?
Mr. Scherer. Will you read it, Mr. Reporter ?
(Pending question was read by the reporter.)
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer this question on the basis this is
not the purpose of this committee, on the basis of the fifth amendment
and the first amendment.
Mr. Scherer. Now, Witness, counsel said you have difficulty un-
derstanding English. I want to inquire, have you understood the
question I asked you ?
Mr. Pauliukas. Yes.
Mr. Scherer. You understood that?
Mr. Pauliukas. Yes ; I understand.
Mr. Scherer. Did you say you live in Cicero ?
Mr. Pauliukas. Yes.
Mr. Scherer. How long have you lived in Chicago ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer. It is not pertinent.
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the
question,
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question. Witness.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer. No man has been compelled to
testify against himself.
Mr. Scherer. Do you honestly believe to answer the question as to
how long you have lived in Chicago, might tend to incriminate you ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer.
518 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. ScHERER. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the
question.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the cjuestion, Witness.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer the question on the fifth amend-
ment, on the grounds that no person can be compelled to incriminate
himself.
Mr. ScriERER. We are not asking you to incriminate yourself. We
are asking you if you honestly believe that to answer that question,
might tend to incriminate you ; and the law says you can onl}^ answer
that question "Yes" if you are invoking the fifth amendment in good
faith.
Mr. Pauliuxas. I invoke the first and fifth amendments, the same
way.
Mr. ScHERER. Very well.
Mr. Arens. You are appearing today in response
Mr. Scherer. Just one second. In what other cities have you lived?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the basis
Mr. Scherer. Other than Chicago or Cicero ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments. I don't want to incriminate mj'self .
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the witness to answer that
question.
Mr. Doyle. I instruct you to answer tliat question, Witness.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
Mr. Scherer. Are you married. Witness ?
Mr. Paltliukas. "VVliat ?
]Mi\ Scherer. Are you married ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer. Tlie purpose has nothing to
do with the
Mr. Scherer. Do you honestly believe
Mr. Steinberg. You are not giving him a chance to finish.
Mr. Scherer. As far as I was concerned, he had fuiished the answer.
I cannot hear him. Let liim finish the answer.
Mr. Pauliubl\s. This has nothing to do with the investigation, on
the basis of the first and fifth amendments.
Mr. Scherer. I submit, Mr. Chairman, it is a proper question for
the purpose of identification of the witness; and I ask you to direct
the witness to answer the question whether he is married.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question. Witness.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer, on the basis of the fifth amend-
ment, no man has been compelled to answer the question, to testify
against himself.
Mr. Scherer. Do you honestly believe to answer the question
whether you are married or not could lead to a criminal prosecution ?
Do you honestly believe that ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel. )
Mr. Pauliukas. I answer the same way as previous.
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the
question.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question. Witness.
(The witness conferred with his counsel.)
INVESTIGATION OF COMlVrUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 519
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the basis of the fifth amend-
ment, no man has to be compelled to testify against himself.
Mr. ScHERER. All right.
Mr. Arexs. I have two formal questions that I would like to ask you.
You are appearing today in response to a subpena served upon you
by the House Committee on Un-American Activities ?
Mr. Pauliukas. Yes.
Mr. Arexs. Kindly keep joiiv voice up.
And you are represented by counsel ?
Mr. Pauliukas. Yes.
Mr. Arexs. Counsel, will you kindly identify yourself ?
Mr. Scherer. I am sorry. I cannot hear the witness up here.
Mr. Steixberg. Irving G. Steinberg, 180 "West Washington.
Mr. Arexs. "Witness, keep your voice up a little bit.
You are right now, are you not, identified with "\^ilnis ?
("Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Pauliuicas. I refuse to answer on the first and fifth amend-
ments.
]Mr. Arexs. I lay before you now a photostatic copy of a statement
filed by yourself as business manager of Vilnis, pursuant to postal laws,
in which you list here your official connection with "V^ilnis, that "Vilnis
is published by the "\Vorkers Publishing Association, and lists the
other officers of that organization.
Please look at this document, which I now display to you, and tell
this committee, while you are under oath, whether or not that is a
true reproduction of a document filed by you pursuant to the postal
laws.
("\"\ltness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Steixberg. Do you have the original ?
Mr. Arexs. "Would 3'ou kindly respond to the question?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer.
Mr. Arexs. Keep your voice up, please, so we can hear you.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first amend-
ment.
(Document marked "Pauliukas Exhibit Xo, 1," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arexs. I would like to lay before you a photostatic reproduc-
tion of Vilnis of May 8, 1931, and ask you if you would be good
enough to accommodate the Committee on TJn-American Activities
in following that while I repeat the translation.
Mr. Steixberg. I am going to object to this, if the Court please.
I have to have a translator here.
Mr. Arexs. I did not ask counsel to do it.
Mr. Steixberg. I need a translator —
Mr. Arexs. Counsel's sole prerogative is to advise his client. Coun-
sel now is in violation of the committee's rules. If counsel does not
restrain himself, I am going to respectfully suggest that the com-
mittee have him ejected from the hearing room.
Mr. Steixberg. If the Court please, may I have a ruling on this?
Mr. DoTLE. Counsel, this is not a court, as I stated. I know you
have been in the hearing room all morning in the front seat there.
You heard me read our rule. I believe it is entirely proper for the
520 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA EN U. S.
witness, if he can read the language in which he prints a newspaper,
apparently, or did in that year, that he read it.
Mr. Steinberg. I am saying we should have an impartial Lithu-
anian interpreter. That is my only point.
Mr. Arens. You have received a ruling from the Chair. Your
sole and exclusive prerogative is to advise your client.
Mr. Steinberg. I don't know that that is —
Mr, Arens. And you know it is part of the rules of this committee.
Mr. Doyle. I direct the witness to answer the question, please.
Mr. Arens. Kindly, if you will do so, let your eyes scan this Vilnis
editorial or lead article of May 8, 1931, while I read here, and I will
begin in the second paragraph. This is a translation which we have
from the
Mr. Steinberg. ^Yliere does it say May 1931 ?
Mr. Arens. Library of Congress :
A year ago, May 11, 1930, Vilnis stockholders had declared themselves,
accepted the resolution, "Vilnis is a Communist newspaper, Vilnis' political line,
for that reason, must be the Communist line."
Is that a true and correct translation of the language which you
see before you in that paper, Vilnis, of May 8, 1931 ?
Mr. Pauliukas. 1 refuse to answer this Cj[uestion on the first
amendment, freedom of the press, and the fifth amendment.
(Document marked "Pauliukas Exhibit No. 2," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arens. Are you now a member of the Communist conspiracy ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. Do you know a man by the name of Steven Strazdas ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse on the grounds of the first amendment.
Mr. Arens, Steven Strazdas identified you as a member of the Com-
munist conspiracy. Was he lying or telling the truth ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the first and fifth amend-
ments,
Mr, Steinberg. Is he here in this courtroom ?
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that you admonish
counsel that his sole and exclusive prerogative is to advise his client.
If he persists in violating the rules of this committee, I request that
the committee cause him to be forcibly excluded from this room.
Mr. Steinberg, I just asked if Steven Strazdas is present.
Mr. Arens. Do you know Nellie DeSchaaf ? Do you know a person
by the name of Nellie DeSchaaf ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse on the same basis.
Mr. Arens. Do you know a person by the name of Alice Yonik ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
Mr. Arens. Do you know a person by the name of Leon Pruseika,
P-r-u-s-e-i-k-a ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse on the basis of the first and fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. Arens. Now, kindly look at these two exhibits, which have been
identified in this record. The first is an attack upon the Committee
of Un-American Activities by the Committee To Preserve American
Freedoms, The second is a handbill circulated by The Chicago Com-
mittee To Preserve Freedom of Speech and the Press,
INVESTIGATION OF COMAIUNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S. 521
Tell this committee, while under oath, what information you have
respecting either of those two organizations.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Akens. Would you kindly answer the question ?
Mr. Steinberg. One moment.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the first and fifth.
Mr. Arens. Kindly keep your voice up so we can hear you.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the first and fifth amend-
ments.
(Documents previously referred to are designated "De Schaaf Ex-
hibits Nos. 2 and 6," respectively, and retained in committee files.)
Mr. Arexs. Are you known in the Communist conspiracy today
as Comrade Mike Zaldakas ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the first and fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. Arens. I put it to you as a fact, sir, and ask you, while you
are under oath, to affirm or deny the fact that you are Comrade Mike
Zaldakas, alias Jacob Pauliukas, P-a-u-1-i-u-k-a-s, of the Communist
conspiratorial propaganda apparatus in the Chicago area?
Deny that while under oath if that is not true.
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer that on the first and fifth
amendments. I don't want to incriminate myself.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest, Mr. Chairman, that will con-
clude the staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. Doyle. Let the record show that even though you did not have
counsel identify himself until you asked several identification ques-
tions of the witness, the record ought to show that counsel for the
witness has been present in the hearing room throughout
Mr. Steinberg. Yes, Your Honor.
Mr. Doyle. Throughout all of the questioning of the witness.
Mr. ScHERER. Witness, how many times have you left the United
States and came back here ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the first and fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. ScuERER. How many times have you been to Russia or Lith-
uania?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the first and fifth amend-
ments. I don't want to incriminate myself.
Mr. ScHERER. Have you made an application for passports ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse on the same basis to answer the question.
Mr. ScHERER. Have you ever received any compensation, either
directly or indirectly, from the Commimist Party ?
Mr. Pauliukas. I refuse to answer on the same basis, the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. ScHERER. I have no further questions.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, may I request that the various exhibits
on this witness, as well as the preceding witness and following wit-
nesses, which shall be used, be the object of a general order by the
chairman, that they be appropriately marked and incorporated in
the record.
Mr. Steinberg. I object to the Lithuanian translation.
90844— 57— pt. 7 4
522 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S.
Mr. Arens. Yoli know that under the rule of the committee your
sole and exclusive prerogative is to advise your client.
Mr. Steinberg. Legal objections I have the right to insert,
Mr. Doyle. I make that order.
Witness, before you and your counsel leave, I think, in view of the
testimony during the morning, 1 should read one paragraph of the
Internal Security Act of 1950, which refers to the subversive activities
control and Public Law 831 of the 81st Congress.
I quote section 2 :
Sec. 2. As a result of evidence adduced before various committees of the Sen-
ate and House of Representatives, the Congress hereby finds that —
(1) there exists a world Communist movement, which, in its origin, its devel-
opment, and its i:)resent practice, is a worldwide revolutionary movement whose
pui'pose it is, by treachery, deceit, infiltration into other groups (governmental
and otherwise), espionage, sabotage, terrorism, and any other means deemed
necessary, to establish a Communist totalitarian dictatorship in the countries
throughout the world through the medium of a worldwide Communist organ-
ization.
Do you have any other witness this morning, Mr. Arens ?
Mr. Arens. Yes, I suggest we take one more witness.
Mr. Dotle. Thank you. Witness and Counsel.
Mr. ScHERER. Mr. Chairman, to my mind this witness is clearly in
contempt, so much so that I move that the subcommittee recommend
to the full committee he be cited for contempt.
Mr. Dotle. I will entertain that motion, and I join in that motion.
Let the record show we will recommend to the full committee of the
House Un-American Activities Committee that this last witness be
cited for contempt of the United States Congress.
Mr. Arens. The next witness will be very brief, I believe, Mr.
Chairman.
Mr. Doyle. ^Ylio is the next witness ?
Mr. Arens. Leon Pruseika, P-r-u-s-e-i-k-a.
Mr. Doyle. Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole
truth — keep your hand up — do you solemnly swear to tell the truth,
the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you God ?
]\Ir. Pruseika. Yes.
Mr. Doyle. Take the witness chair.
TESTIMONY OF LEON PRUSEIKA. ACCOMPANIED BY COUNSEL,
IKVING G. STEINBERG
Mr. Arens. Please identify yourself
Mr. Steinberg. I want to x^oint out the witness is 70 years old and
has a bad heart.
Mr. x\rens. Please
Mr. Scherer. Are you asking that pictures not be taken ?
Mr. Steinberg. Pictures are all right. I just want to apprise this
body that, in light of his advanced age and his heart condition, which
is very serious, that we sort of moderate our attitude toward him,
because something might happen ; and I don't want the onus to fall
on this committee.
Mr. Scherer. I understand he is not objecting to
Mr. Steinberg. The films? No, sir.
Mr. Scherer. Photographs being taken of him.
ESn-ESTIGATION OF C0:^J:MUXIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 523
Mr. Steinberg. He has no objection.
Mr. ScHERER. You don't feel that would hurt his heart condition ?
Mr. Steinberg. No. He is 70 years old and he has been in the hos-
pital as recently as a few months ago.
]Mr. Doyle. He is really, in fact, not very elderly, you know, if he is
only 70. Some of the rest of us are not very far from that.
Mr, Steinberg. I trust we do not have heart conditions.
Mr. Dotle. Let us proceed, Mr. Arens.
Mr. Arens. Identify yourself by name, residence, and occupation.
Mr. Pruseika. My name is Leon Pruseika.
Mr. Arens. P-r-u-s-e-i-k-a ; is that correct?
Mr. Pruseika. And my address is Parnell Avenue, 3627 Parnell
Avenue, Chicago.
Mr. Arens. And your occupation ?
Mr. Pruseika. I am a newspaperman
Mr, Arens. Where are you employed?
Mr. Pruseika, Working for Vilnis.
Mr. Arens. You are appearing today in response to a subpena
which was served upon you by the House Committee on Un-American
Activities ?
Mr. Pruseika. I received subpena.
Mr. Arens. And you are represented by counsel ?
Mr. Pruseika. I am.
Mr. Arens. Counsel, kindly identify yourself.
Mr. Steinberg. Irving G. Steinberg, 180 West Washington.
Mr. Arens. You are an assistant editor of Vilnis? Is that correct?
Mr. Pruseik.\. I am connected with newspapers since 1904,
Mr. Arens. I do not believe you understood me. You said a mo-
ment ago you were editor or something with Vilnis. It was not clear
for the record. "\^niat is your title with Vilnis ?
(Witness conferred with counsel.)
Mr. Pruseika. I want to say this and stress this: I am standing
on grounds of the first amendment to the United States Constitution
for freedom of the press. I am a newspaperman so you have no
right to question me. I believe in freedom of the press.
Mr. Arens. We certainty do. We would like to ask you now what
you said a moment ago on this record about your connection with
Vilnis. What is your title with Vilnis?
Mr. Pruseika. I won't answer any other cpiestions.
Mr. Arens. I am asking you to clear the record for us.
Mr. Pruseieia. I am connected with Vilnis and nothing else.
Mr. Arens. "What is your title with Vilnis ?
Mr. Pruseika. I invoke the first amendment.
Mr, Arens, Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest
Mr. Pruseielv. I invoke the first amendment and the fifth amend-
ment of the United States Constitution.
Mr. Arens. In view of the status of this record, the witness be
ordered and directed to answer that question.
Mr. Doyle. Witness, do you hear? Do you hear me, Witness?
I am directing you to answer the question wliich counsel just asked
you as to what your connection is with Vilnis.
Mr. Pruseika. I can't be a witness against myself on the grounds
of the fifth amendment to the Constitution.
524 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer in view of your statement a few
questions ago that you are connected with Vilnis. We understood
you to say that. We understood you to say that you are connected
with Vihiis. We are asking you what your connection with Vihiis
is.
Mr. Pruseika. I said I am newspaperman, that is all, and nothing
else.
Mr. Arens. I would like the record to be clear that he is ordered
and directed to answer the question.
Mr. Steinberg. "VVHiat is the outstanding question ?
Mr. Arens. His title with Vilnis or official connection.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Pruseika. All the same argument. From my side, it is fifth
amendment to the Constitution.
Mr. Arens. Are you now a member of the Communist conspiracy ?
Mr. Pruseika. Fifth amendment.
Mr. Scherer. Wliere and when were you born ?
Mr. Pruseika. You know better than I.
Mr. Scherer. When were you born and where ?
Mr. Pruseika. Fifth amendment to the question.
Mr. Scherer. I ask you to direct the witness to answer the question.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question, Witness. Consult
with your counsel again there and
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Pruseika. I can't be a witness against myself.
Mr. Arens. Do you read Lithuanian ?
Mr. Pruseika. I won't answer this question.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest he be ordered to answer the ques-
tion.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question.
Mr. Pruseika. Are you investigating me or the newspaperman ? I
said
Mr. Arens. We are investigating you, as a person on whom we have
information that you are a Communist, sir.
Would you kindly answer the question: Do you read Lithuanian?
Mr. Pruseika. You are investigating me as a newspaperman. I say
I have freedom on grounds of the first amendment to the United States
Constitution. I am connected with newspaper work since I was 18
years old, and nobody investigated me for my beliefs or my convic-
tions, for my writings.
Mr. Arens. Tell us, under oath, sir, are you now a member of an
apparatus designed to destroy the Constitution of the United States
and overthrow the Government of the United States by force and
violence ?
Mr. Steinberg. Identify the apparatus.
Mr. Arens. Answer the question.
Mr. Pruseika. The answer is the same grounds. I can't be a witness
against myself.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest, Mr. Chairman, that concludes
the staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. Doyle. In view of your asking a question about your being
a newspaperman, I say this : The United States Congress makes no
exception if it has reason to believe any individual is a member of the
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S. 525
Communist program of conspiracy. I want to make this clear to you
who are connected with a paper which we believe is Communist-
controlled and dominated.
The fact that you are connected with a paper does not exclude you
from being investigated, if you are a Communist, by the United States
Congress. That is our belief.
Mr. Pruseika. You are investigating me. I am a newspaperman.
Mr. Doyle. We are not investigating the newspaper. We are inves-
tigating the extent to which it may be controlled by identified Com-
munists. That is quite a different thing.
Mr. Pruseika. Why don't you investigate such papers like the Chi-
cago Tribune?
Mr. Doyle. Like what?
Mr. Pruseika. Why don't you investigate papers like the Chicago
Tribune, for instance?
Mr. Steinberg. Chicago Tribune, he said.
Mr. Pruseika. The Tribune. Why me? Why shall I make con-
fessions as to why and what I am doing ?
^Ir. ScHERER. Do you know any Communists on the Chicago
Tribune?
Mr. Pruseika. The New York Times there got 1 or 2.
Mr. Scherer. If you would help us now by telling us the names of
any Communists on any paper here, including your own, we would
be glad to call them up here and see if we can get some information.
Mr. Pruseika. I don't understand why you are asking so many
questions when you say you know everything. An informer made a
speech about communism, and so on. All this and no discussion comes
up
Mr. Lautner. What about the informers on Russia ?
Mr. Steinberg. Are you on the witness stand ?
Mr. Lautner. I was.
Mr. Pruseika. An investigation, and we can't discuss from every
angle this question about farmworkers and minority groups and every-
thing. Now, you have everything in advance, you know ; asking the
questions, the same, the same, the same, you know; and it makes me
nervous. I beg your pardon ; but privately, to me, congressional inves-
tigator, I ask him the question why no such things happening in France
and England, in Italy ; why such things are happening here like today ?
Mr. Scherer. Now I have some questions, Witness.
Mr. Pruseika. I beg your pardon. You don't have to answer my
questions, you know, but certainly this question
INIr. Scherer. You have taken the fifth amendment to every ques-
tion we asked you of importance.
Mr. Pruseika. I know\
Mr. Scherer. You haven't answered any of our questions. I^et me
ask you a few. Are you a citizen of the United States?
Mr. Pruseika. I won't answer the question.
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the
question.
Mr. Doyle. You are directed to answer the question whether or not
you are a citizen of the United States. It is a question that we be-
lieve is always considered pertinent before any congressional inves-
tigation for the purpose of identification. How could it incriminate
526 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
you if you are a citizen of the United States ? You are not ashamed
of it, certainly ; if you are — I hope not.
Mr. Pruseika. Same answer.
Mr. ScHERER. Are you a naturalized citizen of the United States?
Mr. Pruseika. I won't answer the question.
Mr. ScHERER. I ask that joii direct the witness to answer the
question.
Mr. Doyle. You are directed to answer, the question. Witness.
Mr. Pruseika. Fifth amendment.
Mr. ScHERER. "Wliere were you born?
Mr. Pruseika. I don't miderstand the meaning of such questions.
Mr. ScHERER. "\Yliere were you born?
Mr. Pruseika. The committee knows this — these informers, they
know in advance.
Mr. Scherer. I ask you to direct the witness to answer the question.
Mr. Doyle. AVliere were you born, Witness ? We believe it is very
pertinent to laiow from where the residents of the United States
come. "VYliat country did you come from? Where were you born?
Mr. Pruseika. You are investigating Lithuanian guy. That is me.
Mr. Doyle. Investigating what ?
Mr. Pruseibla.. Lithuanian.
Mr. Scherer. Are you a Lithuanian ? Were you born in Lithuania ?
Mr. Pruseika. I am not Hungarian, you notice.
Mr. Scherer. I cannot hear you. Witness. You are not Hungarian,
did you say ?
Mr. Pruseika. I am not Hungarian.
Mr. Scherer. Where were you born? That is a simple question.
We know you are no Plungarian.
Mr. Pruseika. Most Lithuanians are from Lithuania.
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the ques-
tion of where he w^as born.
Mr. Doyle. You are directed to answer the question. Witness. You
volunteered the information that you were not born in Hungary.
Wliere were you born ?
Mr. Scherer. He had an opportunity to answer. Now
Mr. Steinberg. If the Court please
Mr. Scherer. Do you refuse to answer ?
Mr. Pruseika. I won't answer the question for the same reason.
Mr. Scherer. Wliere do you now live ?
Mr. Doyle. Did you hear the question. Witness? Wliere do you
now live?
Mr. Steinberg. He already answered that, if the Court please.
Mr. Scherer. We did not hear him.
Mr. Steinberg. He did. This is the second answer.
Mr. Pruseika. 3G27 Parnell Avenue.
Mr. Scherer. Chicago ?
Mr. Pruseika. Yes.
Mr. Scherer. How long have you lived there ?
Mr. Pruseika. Well, a few years, I guess.
Mr. Scherer. How long have you lived in Chicago ?
Mr, Pruseika. Twenty years — 20 years.
Mr. Scherer. Where did you live before that ?
Mr. Pruseika. New York.
IXVESTIGATIOX OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 527
Mr. ScHERER. New York ^
]VIr. Pruseika. Yes, sir.
Mr. SciiERER. Were you a member of the Communist Party when
you lived in Xew York ?
Mr. Pruseika. I Avas connected with the Amaljiamated Clothing
"Workers of the United States for 6 years. I was editor of the Lithu-
anian publication and worked together with Sidney Hillman.
Mr. ScHERER. When you worked with Sidney Hillman, were you a
member of the Communist Party ?
Mr. Pruseika. Oh, same, same, same. I beg your pardon. That
is too much.
Mr. Scherer. Are you feeling badly? Do you want a recess?
Mr. Pruseika. I don't think'you gentlemen are interested in this
thing. The last time I got subpenaed from a congressional committee,
it was about a year and a half, I guess, and I was at that time in the
hospital
Mr. Scherer. Do you want a recess ?
Mr. Pruseika. With heart trouble and diabetes.
Mr. Steinberg. He has diabetes, too.
Mr. Scherer. Do you feel this hearing is detrimental to your health?
Mr. Pruseika. It is veiy unhealthy.
Mr. Scherer. It is what ?
Mr. Pruseika. Perhaps very unhealthy.
Mr. Scherer. I did not understand, sir. Did you obtain a doctor's
certificate asking that you be excused from this hearing ?
Mr. Pruseika. No ; I didn't expect that I would be investigated in
such a form, you know. It sounds punish — so many questions, you
know, and you know everything in aclvance, all the biography
Mr. Scherer. I frankly do not know, Witness, whether you were a
member of the Communist Party when you were with Sidney Hill-
man. I did not know until you said that you were connected with
Sidney Hillman.
Mr. Pruseika. He is dead, Sidney Hillman.
Mr. Scherer. At the time you were connected with him, were you a
member of the Communist Party ?
Mr. Pruseika. I decline to answer this question.
Mr. Scherer. You decline to answer ?
Mr. Pruseika. Sidney Hillman is dead. He would tell you better
about this.
Mr. Scherer. I have no further questions.
Mr. Doyle. No questions.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest, Mr. Chairman, that will con-
clude the morning session.
Mr. DoTLE. The committee will stand in recess until 2 o'clock, same
room.
("\Yliereupon, at 12 : 43 p. m., March 26, 1957, the hearing recessed
to reconvene at 2 p. m. the same day.)
AFTERNOON SESSION— TUESDAY, MARCH 26, 1957
(The subcommittee was reconvened at the expiration of the recess,
at 2 p. m. Committee members present: Representatives Doyle and
Scherer.)
528 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. DoTLE. Before we call the next witness, we take pleasure in
saying that the committee could not help but notice this morning that
the people in the hearing room were very cooperative and were not
making any disturbance, either by way of approval of disapproval.
We appreciate very much that conduct because the subcommittee is
here to work, and purely to work ; and we appreciate the cooperation
of everyone in the room. I know, of course, you will continue to give
that cooperation this afternoon.
I want to take this occasion to again thank the United States mar-
shal's office for being in attendance at the hearings. I hope it will
not be necessary for any of the marshals to remove anyone from the
room because of disturbance of the hearings.
Are you ready, Mr. Arens, with the first witness ?
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir.
Anthony Minerich, kindly come forward.
Mr. D0YI.E. Will you please raise your right hand and be sworn?
Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing
but the truth, so help you, God ?
Mr. Minerich. Yes, sir.
Mr. Doyle. Thank you. Take the witness chair.
TESTIMONY OF ANTHONY MINERICH, ACCOMPANIED BY COUNSEL,
IRVING G. STEINBERG
Mr. Steinberg. If the court please, I have a motion here that I
would like to present to the court.
Mr. Doyle. Now, counsel, just a minute.
Mr. Steinberg. Judge, would you read my motion before you de-
cide because it is very important and it may deal with holding
Mr. Doyle. You are entirely in error when you address us as a
court. You were here this morning when I explained we are not
here as a court; we make no attempt to rule on any legal motions.
There is a jurisdiction in which the
Mr. Steinberg. It is a jurisdictional question, and I appreciate it
and
Mr. Doyle. We will not rule on it.
Mr. Steinberg. Will you read it because there is a danger you may
be held in contempt because Mr. Minerich is under the jurisdiction
of the court.
Mr. Doyle. Present it to our legal counsel.
Mr. Steinberg. I certainly will. Will you look at it, Your Honor,
too?
Mr. Doyle. No ; we rely on our legal counsel's advice.
Mr. Arens. Kindly identify yourself as to name, address, and
occupation.
Mr. Steinberg. May we have a ruling?
Mr. Arens. Counsel, you are advised again that your sole and ex-
clusive prerogative here is to advise your client on constitutional
rights and legal rights.
Kindly identify yourself as to name, residence, and occupation.
Mr. Minerich. My name is Anthony Minerich, I live at 5957 South
Justine, Chicago.
Mr. Arens. And your occupation, please ?
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 529
Mr. MiNERicH. I think that the question that the counsel tried to
raise, you should look at. I am under the jurisdiction of the court.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I suggest that the witness be directed
and ordered to answer the outstanding question.
Mr. Doyle. Yes ; I direct you to answer the question.
Mr. MiNERicH. It is impossible for me to answer the question for
three reasons.
Mr. Doyle, Give the reasons.
Mr. I^IiNERiCH. One reason is that I have a case in the courts which
is now pending. I am under the jurisdiction of the courts, and I
don't think that this committee has a right now to ask me questions
because they deal with certain things that you have here before you,
and until my case is settled by the court I do not want to answer ques-
tions. That is the first reason.
The second reason is that you, yourself, stated in the early part of
this meeting that you can't legislate questions dealing with the press.
Therefore, basing myself on the first amendment to the Constitution,
I do not want to answer the questions.
The third reason is that I invoke the fifth amendment not to
answer questions that might tend to incriminate me.
Mr. AiJENS. You are appearing in response to a subpena that was
served on you by the House Committee on Un-American Activities?
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to answer the question on the basis of the
reasons.
Mr. Arens. ]VIr. Chairman, I suggest that the witness be ordered
and directed to answer that question.
Mr. MiNERiCH. The three reasons that I gave
Mr. Doyle. I am directing you. Witness, to answer the questions;
answer the last question.
Mr. MiNERicH. I say again that I am under the jurisdiction of the
courts. I am under the protection of the courts at the present time
until my case is settled by the courts.
Mr. Doyle. If you are under the protection of the court, the court
will protect you, but this is a congressional hearing, and we believe
it is a pertinent question. If you are under the jurisdiction of the
court, the court will protect you. We are not undertaking inter-
ference with the jurisdiction of any court. But the purpose of this
sort of question
Mr. Minerich. The questions may prejudice my rights with the
courts.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I suggest that the witness be ordered
and directed to answer the question as to whether or not he is appear-
ing in response to a subpena that was served on him by the House
Committee on Un-American Activities.
Mr. Minerich. I am here under subpena.
Mr. Arens. Are you represented by counsel ?
Mr. Minerich. This is my counsel l^ere.
Mr. Arens. Counsel, kindly identify yourself.
Mr. Steinberg. Irving G. Steinberg, 180 West Washington.
Mr. Arens. "Where and when were you born ?
Mr. Minerich. I refuse to answer this question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments to the Constitution, and also the questions
530 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
which I will continually raise dealing with this document which is
before you and which you refuse to even look at.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that the witness
be ordered and directed to answer that question.
Mr. DovLE. I so direct you, Witness.
Mr. MiNERicH. I refuse to answer the question on the basis of the
fifth amendment which states you can't compel me to testify against
myself. My case is before the courts, and this hearing will interfere
with the due process of the court.
Mr. ScHERER. Do you honestly believe the answer to the question
as to where you were born, would lead to a criminal prosecution of
you?
Mr. MiisTEKiCH. I refuse to answer that question on the same
grounds, on the gi^ounds based on the first and fifth amendments that
anything that I may say may tend to be used against me to incrimi-
nate me, and that I am under the jurisdiction of the courts right now.
Until my case is settled, I think the questions you have here you want
to ask me will prejudice my case.
Mr. ScHERER. Mr. Chairman, I ask you to direct the witness to
answer the question of whether or not he honestly believes the answer
to his question, as to place of birth, might lead to criminal prosecution.
Mr. Doyle. I so direct you, Witness.
Mr. Scherer. I might say the law requires him to answer that ques-
tion "Yes" or "No." He cannot invoke the fifth amendment to the
question whether or not he is invoking the fifth amendment in good
faith.
Mr. MiNERicH. I refuse to answer the question, that the questions
are irrelevant here, and that I refuse on the basis of the first amend-
ment to the Constitution dealing with the freedom of the press and
of the fifth amendment, that which gives me the right to refuse to
testify anything that might tend to incriminate me ; and, also, again
I say that I am under the jurisdiction of the courts, and I think the
question you have here will prejudice the whole case, and I do not
want to answer the questions now. And the proposal in this here is
that my testimony be held in abeyance until the courts have settled
the case.
Mr. Arens. Are you now a member of the Communist conspiracy ?
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to answer that question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments and also in connection with my appearance
as my being under the jurisdiction of the courts.
Mr. Arens. Please look to the right. Mr. Lautner, will, you stand
up, please ?
Mr. Minerich, this gentleman standing here this morning took an
oath, laid his liberty on the line. If he lied, he can be prosecuted and
will be prosecuted for perjury. "\Yliile he was under oath before this
committee, he identified you as a person known by him to have been
a member of the Communist conspiracy. Look him in the eye now,
so we will have no baseless informers, and tell this committee was he
lying or telJing the truth when he identified you as a Communist ?
Mr. Mixerich. I refuse to answer this question on the basis of the
first amendment to the Constitution, the fifth amendment to the Con-
stitution, and this document which shows you I am under the juris-
diction of the courts and that I can't be compelled here to testify on
questions.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S. 531
Mr. Arexs. We lay before you a document, an exhibit which
was filed with the postal authorities for Narodni Glasnik, a newspaper
published by the Narodni Glasnik Publishing Co., Inc., in which you
signed as business manager of this publication.
Kindly look at that document and tell this committee, while you are
under oath, whether or not that is a true and correct reproduction of
the document which you signed and filed with the postal authorities.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. MiNERicH. Yes. Now, this question deals with the newspaper
here ?
Mr. Arens. Did you file that document ?
]SIr. MixERicH. On the basis of the first amendment to the Con-
stitution, which says that Congress can't legislate a question of the
freedom of the press, I refuse to answer that question; and I also
invoke the fifth amendment to the Constitution, saying that I don't
have to answer here to any questions that might incriminate me.
(Document marked "Minerich Exhibit No. 1," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arens. I would like to lay before you a photostatic copy
of the Daily Worker of November 22, 1935, in which an article ap-
pears about this Communist Party Central Committee meeting and
lists a number of persons who are identified here as key members,
district organizers of the Communist Party, including yourself, Tony
Minerich, "coal miners' leader.''
Kindly look at this article and tell us whether or not the Daily
Worker was truthful in that instance in identifying you as one of the
ring leaders of the Communist conspiracy.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. MiXERiCH. Well, I refuse to answer this question on the basis
that this is interference with the court, under whose protection and
jurisdiction I am right now until my case is settled ; also on the basis
of tlie first amendment, wiiich guarantees freedom of the press, in
which case you sliouldn't legislate an}^ questions, and therefore you
shouldn't go into them ; and on the basis of the fifth amendment I
shouldn't answer questions that would tend to incriminate me.
(Document marked "Minerich Exhibit No. 2," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arens. I lay before you the Communist Daily Worker of
Friday, March 27, 1936, in whicli you are identified in an article as
one of the section organizers in Pittsburgh, Pa.
Kindly look at that article and tell this committee, while you are
under oath, whether or not you are truthfully described in that Com-
munist Daily Worker.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Minerich. Yes. I refuse to answer this question on the basis
of the first amendment, freedom of the press. As I stated before,
and you stated also, we have no conflict in that question, you can't
legislate questions of the freedom of the press: and, therefore, in my
opinion, you can't go into the questions also Mnthout a valid reason
for it
Mr. Arens. You are
Mr. Minerich fcontinuing) . And, therefore, under the first amend-
ment to the Constitution. I refuse to answer this question.
532 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Arens. I take it you are-
Mr. Steinberg. Let him finish.
Mr. MiNERiCH. I stated again I am under the jurisdiction of the
court. Until the case is settled, I don't want to go into the questions,
and I don't tiiink the court wants me to go into the questions, and I
don't think you have the right; and, therefore, I invoke the first
amendment not testify and I also invoke the fifth amendment which
says that I do not have to testify to questions.
(Document marked "Minerich Exhibit No. 3," and retained in
committee files, )
Mr. Doyle. Mr. Arens, may I ask a question ?
Of course. Witness, you know — well know and counsel well knows —
if it were fact that the alleged court which you mentioned and keep
on mentioning did not want us to question you under this subpena,
it would have been a very simple matter for the distinguished counsel
to get an order from that court right in this city prohibiting us from
asking you any questions. That court is very promptly available.
Having practiced law 30 years myself, it would not have taken
but a few minutes to get an order of the court which you claim to
have jurisdiction over you. That court would have stopped us, if
it would have wanted to and have been asked to, if it was interference
with the court's jurisdiction. So, we do not regard that as a just
reason for your not answering a legitimate question.
The other thing you keep mentioning is that we are interfering with
the freedom of the press. Again, you know that is in error. You
were here this morning, were you not? And you heard me say the
primary purpose of the inquiry was not an investigation of the press,
but the extent to which Communist Party members controlled, either
directly or indirectly, the foreign-language press in the Chicago area.
Congress still maintains, and the courts have ruled, that we have
the right under Public Law 601 and the duty to investigate subver-
sive activities, whether it is in control of a newspaper, control of a
pulpit, or control of a political office or any place else.
So you cannot claim, in our judgment, interference with your free-
dom or interference with the freedom of the newspaper for which
you might be a business agent or an editor.
We believe that we have evidence that you are a member of the
Communist Party. We are going to investigate that because we know
that the Communist Party philosophy is in contravention of a free
press. It is a controlled press when Communists are in control of
it, and it is controlled for the purpose of the Soviet foreign policy.
So, when you keep throwing into your answers that it is interference
with free press, that is, in our judgment, buncombe.
Mr. Arens. What is your line of work, please ?
Mr. Minerich. I refuse to answer that question on the same
grounds, that this is interference with the freedom of the press. You
are asking me questions and not asking Congress questions, and I am
not answering for Congress; I am answering for myself. You are
dealing with newspapers which you have no right, in my opinion.
I invoke the first amendment and refuse to testify on that ground.
Also, I invoke the fifth amendment to the Constitution, that I don't
have to testify here to any questions that you ask which I believe
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 533
will tend to incriminate me or make problems for me in connection
Avith court case that is pending now.
Mr. Arens. Do you honestly feel, if you told this committee truth-
fully where you are employed, you would be supplying information
which might be used against you in a criminal proceeding?
Mr. MiNERiCH. I will answer again. I have answered that ques-
tion, in my opinion, that I refuse to answer it on the basis of the fifth
amendment, anything I say here might tend to incriminate me; and
also, this case that I have in court and also, again, on the question of
the first amendment.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest, Mr. Chairman, that the wit-
ness be ordered and directed to answer the last outstanding principal
question.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question, Witness.
Mr, MiNERicH. I answer the question the same way I answered it
before. I refuse to answer the question on the basis of the fifth
amendment, anything I say here might be used against me and tend
to incriminate me; therefore, I do not want to answer; and I also
invoke the first amendment again because there is a question dealing
here with newspapers, the question you are asking, you have no right,
under the first amendment, to ask. Again I say I am under jurisdic-
tion of the court.
Mr. ScHERER. Are you a citizen of the United States?
Mr. MiNERiCH. That question I refuse to answer also on the basis
of the fifth amendment, anything I say here might tend to incrimi-
nate me. Also, I am invoking the first.
Mr. ScHERER. I ask, Mr. Chairman, that you direct the witness to
tell us whether he is a citizen of the United States.
Mr. DoTL,E. I direct you to answer that question, Witness.
Mr. MiNERiCH. I will answer again for you the way I answered
before. I refuse to answer the question on the basis of the guaranties
placed at my behalf by the fifth amendment of the Constitution, any-
thing I might say here might tend to incriminate me, and also that
this question that you are asking concerns the very question that is
before the court, and I presented the document — my attorney did —
for you to look at. Therefore, again, I cannot go into this question.
Mr. ScHERER. Are you a naturalized citizen of the United States ?
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to answer that question again on the basis
of the fifth amendment. Anything I might say here might tend to
incriminate me. That very question is before the court. Therefore,
you have no right. It is my opinion that answering this question
will help this committee to be in contempt of the court.
Mr, ScHERER. I ask you to direct the witness to answer the question,
Mr. DoTLE, I direct you to answer this question, Witness,
Mr, MiNERiCH, I refuse to answer the question on the basis of the
fifth amendment to the Constitution, also the first, and also the
reason
Mr, ScHERER, Were you born in the United States ?
Mr, MiNERicH. I refuse to answer that question on the basis of the
fifth amendment and that this question is now before the courts and
until the courts are ready to have decided that question
534 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. ScHERER. Do you mean the question as to where you were born.
is before the court? Do you mean to tell me that that question is
before the court as to where you were born ?
Mr. MiNERiCH, I refuse to answer the question on the basis
Mr. ScHERER. You raised a question. I am asking you if the issue
before the court is as to where you were born.
Mr. MiNERiCH. If you ask me, you have to give me a chance to
answer.
Mr. ScHERER. I hope you answer instead of invoking the fifth
amendment.
Mr. AIiNERiCH. I will answer in my way.
Mr. ScHERER. Go ahead and answer.
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to answer on the basis
JNIr. ScHERER. Do you call that an answer when you refuse to an-
swer?
Mr. MiNERiCH. I tell you again when you ask me again to answer,
and I will answer the question in my way.
Mr. INIiNERiCH. I refuse to answer on the basis- — —
Mr. ]\IixERiCH. And I refuse to answer the question on the basis of
the fifth amendment ; anything I said might tend to incriminate me.
Mr. ScHERER. Mr. Chairman, he opened the door.
Mr. MiNERiCH. This question is before the court at the present
time, and I don't think you have the right to go into it now.
Mr. ScHERER. Mr. Chairman, he opened the door. If he had any
right to invoke the fifth amendment, which I do not believe he does,
as to the question of where he was born, he certainly waived it because
he said the issue of where he was born was before the court at this
moment. I am asking him to answer the question as to whether or
not that issue as to the place of his birth is before the court.
Mr. DoTLE. And I am instructing yo.u. Witness, to answer that
question.
Mr. IMiNERicH. I am refusing to answer it on the basis of the fifth
amendment.
IVir. ScHERER. The question before the court is your Communist
Party activity, and the question is whether your Communist Party
activities deprive you of the citizenship which obtained by naturaliza-
tion. Is that not the issue before the court ?
Mr, MiNERicH. I refuse to answer the question on the basis of the
fifth amendment to the Constitution, that this committee or anybody
else can't compel me to give testimony here, under that amendment,
that might tend to incriminate me.
Mr. ScHERER. Have you traveled abroad since you came to this
country ?
iSIr. ^IiNERiCH. I refuse to answer that question on the fifth amend-
ment.
Mr. ScHERER. Have you been in Eussia ?
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to ansAver that question on the fifth amend-
ment to the Constitution which gives me the right not to answer the
question, also
Mr. ScHERER. Have you ever received any compensation, directly
or indirectly, from the Communist Party?
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to answer that question on the basis of
the fifth amendment of the Constitution.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 535
Mr. ScHERER. The fact is you have received such compensation,
is it not, Witness ?
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to answer the last three or four questions
that you just put— because I never did have a chance to complete my
answer — on the basis of the fifth amendment to the Constitution,
which gives me the right to refuse to answer any question that I feel
might tend to incriminate me, and I refuse also on the basis that that
question and many questions now are before the courts, and I want
the courts to decide it, and I don't want this committee to go into
this question and to prejudice any decisions that might be had.
Mr. SciiizRER. Have you ever passed any information to a Com-
munist agent?
Mr. MixERiCH. I refuse to answer that question on the basis of the
fifth amendment to the Constitution, the first amendment of the Con-
stitution, and also I am telling you again that I have a case before
the courts, and I want the courts to settle the case.
Mr. Arens. Are you one of the proponents of the abolition of the
House Committee on Un-American Activities?
Mr. Minerich. I am sorry that I have to answer that question in
the same way, the first and fifth amendments to the Constitution.
Mr. Arens. I lay before you now a document urging the abolition
of the House Committee on Un-American Activities, published by a
Committee To Preserve American Freedoms, and I also lay before
you now a document issued by The Chicago Committee To Preserve
Freedom of Speech and the Press, room 504, 208 North Wells Street,
Chicago 6, 111., and that is the same address of the Committee To
Preserve American Freedoms.
It appears both these committees have the same address.
Kindly look at those documents and tell this committee, while you
are under oath, sir, what information you have respecting each of
those committees.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Minerich. Well, I refuse to answer this question on the basis
of the first amendment to the Constitution; on the fifth amendment
to the Constitution, which says I don't have to answer questions which
I feel might tend to incriminate me ; and, again, on the question, which
question is before the courts and let the courts decide.
(Documents previously identified as "DeSchaaf Exhibits Nos. 2 and
6," respectively, and retained in committee files.)
Mr. Arens. Can you help us out on this? This room, 504, 208
North Wells Street, Chicago 6, 111., which is the address of the Com-
mittee To Preserve American Freedoms and The Chicago Committee
To Preserve Freedom of Speech and the Press, is the same address
and same identical room number which the Communist Party used
to have here in Chicago.
Can you help us on that ?
Mr. Minerich. I am sorry I can't answer that question. On the
basis of the fifth amendment to the Constitution, anything I say here
might tend to incriminate me. Freedom of press is involved here.
The freedom to publish leaflets, bulletins, and everything; and I
think the committee has no right to go into this.
Mr. Arens. I will ask you about the names of certain of these peo-
ple who appear here along with your name as an official of Narodni
Glasnik. Leo Fisher. Do you know him?
536 INVESTIGATION OF COMIVIUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to answer that question on the basis of the
fifth amendment to the Constitution.
Mr. Arens. Nicholas Rajkovich, R-a-j-k-o-v-i-c-h. Do you know
him?
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to answer that question on the basis of the
guaranties of the fifth amendment to the Constitution and of the first
amendment to the Constitution that deals Avith freedom of the press,
speech, and so forth.
Mr. Arens. John Vidmar, Jr. Do you know him ?
Mr. MiNERicH. I refuse to answer that question on the basis of the
first amendment to the Constitution and fifth amendment to the Con-
stitution. People don't need to testify
Mr. Arens. Are you now a member of the Communist conspiratorial
apparatus designed to destroy the Constitution of the United States
and overthrow the Government by force and violence ?
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to answer that question on the basis of the
fifth amendment to the Constitution. I refuse on the basis of the
first amendment to the Constitution, and also I say my case is before
the courts and let the courts decide.
Mr. ScHERER. Now, the district court has acted in your case, has it
not ? The court has found you are not worthy to be a citizen of the
United States and ordered you to be denaturalized because of your
efi'orts to overthrow this Government by force and violence.
Mr. MiNERiCH. I refuse to answer that question on the basis of the
fifth amendment of the Constitution. It is under the jurisdiction of
the court. If the court made a decision, and so forth, the decisions
are not all finished, the w^hole case is in the courts. Let's not inter-
fere with the courts and let the court decide. In the end, they will
decide the case. That will be the decision, and this committee has no
right to try to do something here that will make it, let us say, harder
for the courts or prejudice my case before the courts.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that will conclude
the staif interrogation of this witness.
Mr. Doyle. Mr. Scherer ?
Mr. Scherer. No questions.
Mr. Arens. John Zuskar, please come forward.
Mr. Zuskar. Mr. Chairman, I want no pictures, please. I want
no pictures. Let's have a decision here.
Mr. DoTLE. We never interfere with the freedom of the press when
it comes to photograpliing people in public meetings.
Mr. Zuskar. This was decided, Mr. Chairman.
Mr. DoYLE. We do not have jurisdiction, as far as the press is con-
cerned, until we have you under oath. Please raise your right hand
and be sworn.
Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing
but the truth, so help you God ?
Mr. Zuskar. So help me God.
TESTIMONY OF JOHN ZUSKAR, ACCOMPANIED BY COUNSEL,
LEO BERMAN
Mr. Berman. If the chairman please, a point of procedure.
Mr. Doyle. Beg pardon ?
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 537
Mr, Berman. If the chairman please, on a point of procedure?
Mr. DoTLE. Yes.
Mr. Berman. First of all, the Chair did rule earlier that no pictures
would be taken of any of the supenaed witnesses unless they conceded
to it.
Mr. Doyle. After they are under oath.
Mr. Ber]man. After they are under oath.
Mr. Doyle. Before, we never interef ere with press photography.
Mr. Berman. Also I want to call to the Chair's attention that I
submitted a statement of Dr. Charles Raymond as to Mr. Zuskar's
heart condition that he has. I merely present that for your infor-
mation.
Mr. Doyle. Counsel has it.
Mr. Scherer. Before we go any further now, I think the Chair
should ask the photographers to comply with the ruling. No pictures
can be taken after the witness has been sworn.
Mr. Doyle. That is right.
Mr. Scherer. Now, let's see the doctor's certificate before we
Mr. Doyle. I think some of these photographers were not in the
room this morning when I made that instruction, but let us please
follow that.
Mr. Scherer. Well, the doctor in his certificate does not indicate
that this witness' appearance here before this committee would in any
way harm him. The certificate reads :
March 22, 1957.
This is to certify that I have treated Mr. John Znskar of 1510 West 18th Street,
Chicago, 111., on January 17, 1957, January 22, February 1 and March 22, for
complaints suggesting tlie diagnosis of coronary insufficiency.
Electrocardiogram taken on January 22, 1957, substantiates the diagnosis.
The condition is chronic.
(Signed) Charles Raymond, M. D.
Counsel, you are not contending that his condition is such that it
would jeopardize him to appear?
Mr. Bermax. We are appearing. I merely wish to call this to the
committee's attention so that we can keep that in mind.
Mr. Doyle. We will be glad to.
(Above letter retained in committee files.)
Mr. Arens. Kindly identify yourself by name, residence, and occu-
pation.
Mi". Zuskar. John Zuskar, Z-u-s-k-a-r, 55 WestWard Ho, North
Lake, 111.
Mr. Arens. Your occupation ?
Mr. Zuskar. I refuse to answer that on the grounds of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. You are appearing today in response to a subpena that
was served upon you by the House Committee on Un-American Ac-
tivities?
Mr. ZrsKAR. Yes. On the grounds of the first and fifth
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr, Arexs. You got your wires crossed there. I asked if you
are aj^pearing today in response to a subpena served upon you by
the House Committee on Un-American Activities.
Mr. Zuskar. Yes, sir.
Mr. Arens. You are represented by counsel ?
90844 — 57— pt. 7 5
538 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. ZusKAR. Yes, sir,
Mr. Arens. Counsel, would you kindly identify yourself?
Mr. Berman. Leo Berman, 139 North Clark Street, Chicago.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Zuskar, I lay before you now a photostatic repro-
duction of a document filed by you with the postal authorities, foreign-
language press, Ludova Noviny, L-u-d-o-v-a N-o-v-i-n-y, bearing your
signature, and designating you as publisher, editor, managing editor,
and business manager of this particular publication.
Please look at this document, while you are under oath, and if you
will be good enough, verify the authenticity of that document.
Mr. Zuskar. I will refuse to answer on the grounds of the first
and fifth amendments.
(Document marked "Zuskar Exhibit No, 1," and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. Arens. Are you now a member of the Communist conspiracy ?
Mr. Zuskar, I refuse to answer on the grounds of the first and fifth
amendments.
Mr. Arens. We lay before you now two documents which have been
identified in this record. One is a printed leaflet by the Committee
To Preserve American Freedoms. The other is a 1-page leaflet by
The Chicago Committee To Preserve Freedom of Speech and the
Press. Both bear the address of room 504 at 208 North Wells Street,
Chicago 6, 111.
Kindly look at those documents and tell this committee, while you
are under oath, if you could give us information respecting those two
organizations.
Mr. Zuskar. I will not answer on the same grounds, the first and
fifth amendments.
(Documents previously identified as "DeSchaaf Exhibits Nos. 2
and 6," respectively, and retained in committee files.)
Mr. Arens. This committee, in anticipation of its visit here to Chi-
cago, was trying to subpena Calvin Brook who is also identified with
your paper. Somehow or other, we just could not find him. Can you
tell us where he is?
Mr. Zuskar. I refuse to answer that question on the grounds of the
first and fifth.
Mr. Arens. He is not hiding from us, is he ?
Mr. Zuskar. Same answer.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that concludes
the staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. Doyle. Mr. Scherer?
Mr. Scherer. I have no questions.
Mr. Doyle. May I have the date, please, of the first exhibit, his
statement of ownership of the paper? 'Wliat was the date of that?
Mr. BoNORA. It was filed September 28, 1956.
Mr. Doyle. 1956.
Mr. BoNORA. That is the latest in the file.
Mr. Doyle. Thank you, Witness and Counsel.
Mr. Arens. George Wastila, kindly come forward.
Mr, Doyle, Do you solemnly swear that you will tell the truth,
the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you God?
Mr, Wastila. Yes.
Mr. Doyle. Thank you. Please take the witness chair.
INVESTIGATION OF COIVIMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 539
TESTIMONY OF GEORGE WASTILA, ACCOMPANIED BY COUNSEL,
IRVING GEORGE STEINBERG
Mr. Arens. Kindly identify yourself by name, residence, and occu-
pation.
Mr. Wasttla. George Wastila, 601 Tower Avenue, Superior, Wis.
I am an editor.
Mr. Arens. You are appearing today in response to a subpena
which was served upon you by the House Committee on Un-American
Activities ?
Mr. Wastila. I am.
Mr. Arens. You are represented by counsel ?
Mr. Wastila. I am.
Mr. Arens. Counsel, kindly identify yourself.
Mr. Steinberg. My name is Irving George Steinberg, 180 West
Washington.
Mr. Arens. With what publication are vou connected, please, Mr.
Wastila?
Mr. Wastila. Since I believe that this committee is exceeding its
authority, congi-essional authority, and in so doing is posing a threat
to the freedom of the press of our country, I invoke the first amend-
ment and refuse to answer that question, and I complement my refusal
by invoking also the fifth amendment, namely, that portion which
states that one does not have to testify against oneself.
Mr. Arens. Do you honestly feel, if you told this connnittee truth-
fully the name of the publication with which you are connected, you
would be supplying information which might be used against you
in a criminal proceeding ?
Mr. Wastila. Since I don't want to become a party to what I believe
is in excess of congressional authority and which poses a threat to the
freedom of the press of our country, I decline to answer that question.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest the witness now
be ordered and directed to answer the last outstanding principal
question.
Mr. Steinberg. Would you repeat the question, please?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Doyle. Wait until he is through conferring with counsel.
Mr. Steinberg. Read the question.
(Record read by the reporter.)
Mr. Wastila. Since I stated that I believe the committee is exceed-
ing its authority and is posing a threat to the freedom of the press of
our country, and not wishing to become a part of any such undertak-
ing, I invoke the first amendment and, secondly, I invoke also the
fifth amendment, namely, that portion which states that one does not
have to testify against oneself.
]Mr. Arens. ^Nlr. Witness, we are going to be sure this record is abso-
lutely clear on this point. Unless you honestly apprehend that an
answer to our question would supply information which could be used
against 3^011 in a criminal proceeding, you do not have the right to
invoke the fifth amendment.
We are now, for the purpose of testing your good faith in the use
of the fifth amendment, asking you whether or not you honestly appre-
hend, if you told this committee truthfully the name of the publication
540 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
with which you are identified, you would be supplying information
which might be used against you in a criminal proceeding.
Mr. Wastila. I repeat, since I don't want to become a party to any
undertaking which I believe is posing a threat to freedom of the press
of our country, I invoke the first amendment, and, secondly, I invoke
the frith amendment, that portion which states that one does not have
to testify against oneself.
Mr. Aeens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest, for clarity of
this record, there can be no misunderstanding as to the intent and
purposes of these questions, that the witness be ordered and directed
to answer the question.
Mr. DoTLE. In making my order of direction of the witness that
you do answer — when you are through consulting your counsel, again
I will give you your direction,
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. DoTLE. Witness, I now direct you again to answer that question
which Mr. Arens has directed to you.
Mr. Wastila. I repeat, since I do not want to become a party to
any undertaking which I believe is posing a threat to the freedom of
the press of our country, I invoke the first amendment, and, secondly,
I invoke the fifth amendment, that portion which says that I do not
have to testify to anything that might incriminate me.
Mr. Arens. Now, I lay before you two documents which were filed
with the postal authorities. The first is for a publication known as
T-y-o-m-i-e-s E-t-e-e-n-p-a-i-n, of Superior, Wis., published by the
American Finnish Publishers, Inc., in which you are listed as the
editor and the managing editor, and you signed this document.
The second is a document filed with the postal authorities for a
publication known as N-a-i-s-t-e-n V-i-i-r-i, of Superior, Wis., pub-
lished by the American Finnish Publishers, Inc., in which you are
listed as one of the officials of that publication and which you signed
as a representative of that publication.
Look at those trwo documents and tell this committee, while you are
under oath, whether or not those are true and correct reproductions of
those documents filed by yourself with the postal authorities. One
is described as a weekly and one is described as a daily publication.
Mr. ScHERER. Did you say they are Finnish publications ?
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Steinberg. Have you got the originals ?
Mr. BoNORA. They are on file with the Post Office Department.
Mr. Arens. Would you kindly answer the question ?
Mr. Steinberg. Wait a minute. Give us a chance.
Mr. Wastila. They are smudged here in some spots.
Well, since I don't want to become a party to anything that I be-
lieve is endangering the freedom of the press of our country, I invoke
the first amendment; and, secondly, I invoke the fifth amendment,
that portion which states that I do not have to testify to anything
that might tend to incriminate me.
(Documents marked "Wastila Exhibit No. 1," and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. Arens. Have you been a party to a conspiracy designed to de-
stroy the Constitution of the United States and the Government of
the United States?
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 541
Mr. Wastila. Not wishing to be a party to anything which I con-
sider is endangering the freedom of the press of our country, I invoke
the first amendment ; and, secondly, I invoke also the fifth amendment.
Mr. Aeens. What other names have you used in your life other
than the name pursuant to which you are appearing, George Wastila ?
Mr. Wastila. Not wishing to be a party to anything which I feel
is endangering the freedom of the press of our country, I invoke the
first amendment, and I also invoke the fifth amendment.
Mr. Arens. Your Communist Party name is Mike Walsh ; is it not ?
Mr. Wastila. Not wishing to be a party to anything that I feel is
endangering the freedom of the press of our country, I invoke the first
amendment ; and, secondly, I invoke the fifth amendment.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Lautner, would you kindly stand ?
Mr. Wastila, this gentleman, standing there to your right, took an
oath this morning; and while he was under oath, he laid his liberty
on the line. If he lied to this committee, we will see that he is prose-
cuted for perjury. While he was under oath, he said he knew you,
as a certainty, to be a member of the Communist Party. Look him
in the face and tell us, was he lying or telling the truth when he identi-
fied you as a Communist ?
Mr. Wastila. Not wishing to be a party to anything that I consider
is endangering the freedom of the press of our country, I invoke the
first amendment; and, secondly, I invoke the fifth amendment, that
portion which states that one does not have to testify against oneself.
iSIr. Arexs. You said a little while ago you were in the publishing
business or in the editing business, but you would not tell us the name
of the paper ; is that correct ?
Mr. Wastila. Not wishing to be a party to anything
Mr. Arens. Wait a minute. I am just asking you what you said on
the record.
Mv. Wastila. I suggest you get it from the court reporter.
Mr. Arens. Pursuant to your publishing work, have you been en-
gaged, in the last few months, in some lecturing around the country ?
Air. Wastila. Not wishing to be a party to anything which I con-
sider is endangering the freedom of the press of our country, I invoke
the first amendment; and, secondly, I invoke the fifth.
Mr. Arens. You have been on an extensive speaking tour all through
Michigan, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Mary-
land, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Illinois ; have you not?
Mr. Wastila. Not wishing to be a party to anything that I con-
sider is endangering the freedom of the press of our country, I invoke
the first amendment ; and, secondly, I invoke the fifth amendmxent.
Mr. Arens. We have here what has been represented to us as a
copy of your speaking itinerary. You are scheduled to speak tomor-
row in Erie, Pa. ; are you not ?
Mr. Wastila. Not wishing to
Mr. Steinberg. May I see that ?
Mr. Arens. Counsel, I will advise 3^011 for the last time that your
sole and exclusive prerogative is to advise the witness, and I admonish
you to please stay within the rules of this committee.
Mr. Wastila. May I see it ?
Mr. Arens. Tell this committee, while you are under oath, whether
or not you are scheduled to speak in Erie, Pa., tomorrow.
542 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Wastila. Not wishino; to be a party to anything which I con-
sider is endangering the freedom of the press in our country
Mr. DoYT.E. You mean freedom of speech in our country.
Mr. Wastila. Freedom of speech and press, I invoke the first
amendment; and, secondly, the fifth, that states that one does not
have to testify against oneself.
Mr. Arens. On the very next day, on March 28, you are scheduled
to speak in Conneaut, C-o-n-n-e-a-u-t, Ohio, are you not?
Mr. Wastila. My answer is the same.
Mr. Arens. Maybe the distinguished gentleman from Ohio can tell
you if there is a town called Conneaut, Ohio.
Mr. ScHERER. Conneaut?
Mr. Arens. Conneaut. Will you tell this committee where you are
scheduled to speak day after tomorrow in Conneaut, Ohio, what club
or group you are going to address?
Mr. Wastila. The answer is the same as to the previous question.
Mr. Arens. On the 29th and 30th you are scheduled to speak at
Cleveland, Ohio.
Mr. Wastila. ISIy answer is the same as previously, the previous
question.
Mr. Arens. You are not ashamed of the invitation you are going to
accept unless you are going to speak at the behest of the Communist
apparatus.
Mr. Wastila, Well, not wishing to be a party to anything which I
consider is endangering the freedom of the press of our country, free-
dom of speech in our country, I invoke the first amendment; and,
secondly, I invoke the fifth, that portion which states that one does
not have to testify against oneself.
Mr. Arens. I see here on April 1 and 2 you are scheduled to make
a couple of speeches here in Chicago.
Could you tell us where you are going to speak and what group you
are going to represent and whether or not, when you do speak, you
are going to show your true colors as a member of the Communist
conspiracy, or masquerade behind some humanitarian organization?
Mr. Wastila. Not wishing to jeopardize freedom of speech, I in-
voke my rights under the first amendment ; and, secondly, invoke the
fifth amendment, that portion which states that one does not have to
testifj^ against oneself.
Mr. Arens. Then I see you are scheduled to speak at Waukegan,
111., on April 3.
Tell us now before what group you are going to speak at Waukegan
on April 3.
Mr. Wastila. ISIy answer is the same as to the previous question.
Mr. Arens. We do not want to interfere with freedom of s]:)eech.
Just speak up fully and tell us before whom you are going to speak
at West Allis, Wis., on April 4. Is there a group up there that
invited you?
Mr. Wastila. Not wishing to be a party to anything that I consider
is endangering the freedom of speech in our country, I invoke my
riglits under the first amendment; and, secondly, under the fifth,
that portion which states that one does not have to testify against
himself.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 543
(Document marked "Wastila Exhibit No. 2," and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr, Arens. From where did you just come to Chicago ?
Mr. Wastila. Not wishing to be a party to anything which I con-
sider is endangering the freedom of speech in our country, I invoke
my riglits under the lirst amendment, and secondly
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that the witness
be ordered and directed to answer the question.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question, Witness.
Mr. Wastila. And my answer is the same, that not wishing to be
a party to anything which I consider is endangering the freedom of
speech in our country, I invoke my rights under the first amendment,
and, secondly, my rights under the fifth.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wastila. And I might add on the further ground the question
is iri'elevant and has nothing to do with — —
Mr. Arens. You just came from Glassport, Pa., where you were
orating there on behalf of Communist objectives, masquerading under
the colors of some humanitarian group; is that not true? Deny it
under oath if it is not true.
Mr. Wastila. Since I do not wish to be a party to anything that
I consider is endangering the freedom of speech in our country, I
invoke my rights under the first; and I invoke my rights under the
fifth, that portion which states I do not have to testify against myself.
Mr. Arens. Tell us about your public career, then. You will not
tell us about your career with this newspaper. You will not tell us
about your career as an orator. Would you tell us about your public
career? Have you been a candidate for a public office?
Mr. Wastila. Since I don't want to become a party to anything
which I consider is endangering the freedom of speech in our country,
I invoke my rights under the first amendment and also my rights
under the fifth, that portion which states that I don't have to testify
against myself.
Mr. Arens. Here is a paper that testifies against you. It is the
Comnumist Daily Worker of New York, Saturday, August 28, 1937,
and the heading of this article is : "Communist Party Nominates 80
for City and Stale Posts."
The New York State committee of the Communist Pai-ty yesterday announced
a citywide election slate of SO names in the forthcoming mimicipal and State
contest.
We look down here for assemblymen in New York City and we see
"George M. Wastila." Please look at that and see if tliat refreshes
your recollection as to your public career, in which you were sacrific-
ing yourself on the altar of public service.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wastila. Well, again, I must answer that since I don't want
to become a party to anything which I consider is posing a threat to
the freedom of speech and press in our country, I invoke my rights
under the first and also invoke my rights under the fifth, that portion
which states that I don't have to testify against myself.
(Document marked "Wastila Exhibit No. 3," and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. Arens. Wlio was your predecessor in your present job?
544 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Wastila. And my answer is the same as to the previous ques-
tion.
Mr. Arexs. I have another article from the Connnunist Daily
Worker, New York, Thursday, November 30, 1950. I would like to
lay this article before you, in which you made a speech vifjorously
protesting the deportation proceedings which were instituted against
Knut Heikkinen, H-e-i-k-k-i-n-e-n [associate editor of the Finnish-
language publication Tyomies-Eteenpain] who was your predecessor
on this paper.
Please look at that and see if that will refresh your recollection to
help this committee in its work.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. ScHERER. Pleikkinen was being deported for Communist ac-
tivities, was he not, counsel ?
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir.
Could you help us on that, please?
Mr. Wastila. Well, as I have said, since I don't want to become
a party to anything which I believe is posing a threat to freedom of
speech and the press in our country, I invoke my rights on the first
and also m^y rights under the fifth, that portion which states that I
don't have to testify in any way that I might incriminate myself.
(Document marked ''Wastila Exhibit No. 4," and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. ScHERER. Just a moment. Witness, where was this fellow
Heikkinen born ?
Mr. Wastila. ]My answer is the same as to the previous question,
since I
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
]Mr. Wastila. And on the further ground that question is totally
irrelevant. What does it have to do with my appearing here at this
hearings ?
Mr. ScHERER. I want to get something more relevant, then. "\Miere
were you born ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wastila. Well, since I don't want to become a partj- to any-
thing which I believe is posing a threat to the freedom of speech and
press in our country, I invoke my rights under the first; and I invoke
my rights under the fifth, that portion which states that I don't have
to testify
Mr. ScHERER. Mr. Chairman. I ask that you direct tlie vritness to
answer the question as to where he was born.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer that question. Witness. The
United States Congress is certainly entitled to know wliere the people
it represents on a national level were born. It certainly could n.ot be
incriminating because you were bom, even in any foreign country.
You had nothing to do with being born.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wastila. Well, since I don't want to become a party to anything
which I consider is posing a threat to freedom of speech and press in
our country, and I don't want to aid and abet any such effort, I invoke
my rights under tlie first amendment; and I also invoke my rights
under the fifth, which states that I don't have to testify to anything.
Mr. ScHERER. Are vou a citizen of the United States?
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 545
Mr. Wastila. My answer, I answer that the same way, since I in-
voke particular!}^ the first amendment, since I don't want to aid and
abet anything which I consider is posing a threat to freedom of
speecli and press in our country ; and I further invoke my rights mider
the fifth which states that I don't have to testify against myself.
Mr. SciiERER. Do you honestly believe, then, that to answer the ques-
tion as to whether you are a citizen of the United States might tend to
incriminate you ?
Mr. Wastila. Again I say that since I do not want to become a
party to anything which I consider is posing a threat to the freedom
of speech and press in our country, I invoke my rights under the first
and refuse to answer that question ; and I invoke mv rights also under
the fifth.
Mr. ScjiERER. I ask you to direct the w^itness to answer that ques-
tion. My. Chairman, because that question can only be answered "yes"
or "no."
Mr. Doyle. I direct that you answ^er that question, Witness.
(The witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. SciiERER. It cannot incriminate him. An answer to that ques-
tion cannot incriminate him.
Mr. Doyle. Apparently everything incriminates him, even being
born.
Mr. Wastila. I was born in Worcester, Mass.
Mr. Arens. How long have you been a champion of free speech?
Mr. Wastii^\. Since I don't want to become a party to anything I
think is jeopardizing the free speech and press, I invoke my rights
under the first and refuse to answer that question.
Mr. Arexs. I would like to read you an article in which you were a
champion of free speech, and see if you can help us on this one. This
is from the Daily Worker, New York, Wednesday, June 8, 1949 :
George M. Wastilla, president of the Finnish-American Mutual Aid Society,
IWO, sent a protest to Judge Medina against the jailings of the Communist
leaders, and urged members of his organization to join in the mass movement
for free speech.
Can you tell this committee, while you are under oath, if that
was one of the activities in which you engaged in your propagation
of free speech and in defense of free speech ?
According to the Communist Daily Worker you were championing
free speech there, and we would like to have you tell us about it, please.
Mr. Wastila. Well, again, I must answer, since I don't want to
become a party to anything which I consider is posing a threat to the
freedom of speech and press in our country, I invoke my rights under
the first and refuse to answer ; and, further, I invoke my rights under
the fifth amendment, that section which states that I don't have to
test if 3^ against myself.
(Document mai-ked "Wastila Exhibit No. 5," and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. Arens. Did you think that the jailing of 11 Communist traitors
was an interference of the freedom of speech, or were you misquoted
in this Communist Daily Worker ?
Mr. Wastila. Since I don't want to become a party to anything
which I believe is jeopardizing freedom of speech and press in our
countiy, I invoke my rights under the first and refuse to answer and
546 rNTV'ESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
also my rights under the fifth amendment, that portion which states
that I don't have to testify against myself.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that concludes
the staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. ScHERER. Have you ever made application for a passport, Mr.
Wastila?
jMr. Wastila. Since I don't want to become a party to anything
which I believe is posing a threat to the freedom of speech and press
of our country, I invoke my rights under the first and refuse to answer
and also my rights under the fifth, that portion which states that I
don't have to give testimony against myself.
Mr. SciiERER. Have you ever been in Eussia?
ISIr. Wastila. I must answer again that since I do not want to
become a party or don't want to aid anything which I believe is posing
a threat to the freedom of speech and press in our country, I invoke
my rights under the first amendment and also my rights under the
fifth amendment, that portion which states that I do not have to give
testimony against myself.
Mr. ScHERER. Have you ever received any compensation for your
activities from the Communist Party, either directly or indirectly?
Mr. Wastila. And I must answer again that since I don't want to
become a party or I don't want to help anything which I consider as
posing a threat to the freedom of speech and press of our country, I
invoke my rights under the first amendment and also my rights under
the fifth amendment, that portion which states that I do not have to
testify against myself.
Mr. SciiERER. Do you honestly believe, if you told us whether or not
you received any compensation for your activities from the Commu-
nist Party, that that interferes with freedom of the press?
Mr. Wastila. Since
Mr. ScHERER. Do you mean to tell us that
Mr. Wastila. Since I believe the committee is exceeding its au-
thority in these hearings
Mr. ScHERER. Answer my question and do not get on to any other
reason.
Mr. Wastila. I answer that the same way. Since I don't want to
help anything which I think is posing a threat to freedom of speech
and press of our country, I invoke my rights under the first and also
under the fifth amendment, that portion which states that I do not
have to give testimony against myself.
Mr. ScHERER. Have you ever passed any information or received
any information from a Communist agent ?
Mr. Wastila. And I must answer that the same way or as the pre-
vious one.
Mr. ScHERER. Or from the Russian secret police?
Mr. Wastila. I answer that as I did the previous question.
Mr. ScHERER. Do you think that interferes with your freedom of
speech, if you answer the question? ^Vlicn we ask you the question
whether you ever received or passed any information to the Russian
secret police, does it interfere with your freedom of the press and
freedom of speech ?
Mr. Wastila. Since I don't want to become a party to anything
which I consider is jeopardizing the freedom of speech and press, I
INVESTIGATION OF COMJSIUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 547
invoke my rights under the first and also my rights under the fifth,
which states I don't have to give testimony against myself.
Mr. Arens. Did you ever take an oath of allegiance to support
and defend the Constitution of the United States, defend our flag?
Have you ever taken any oath of allegiance '?
Mr. Wastila. Since I don't want to in any way abet or aid this
hearing, I am going to invoke my rights under the first
Mv. Arens. And you are going to be ordered to answer that ques-
tion. Mv. Chairman, I respectfully suggest the witness now be ordered
and directed to answer that question whether or not he ever took an
oatii of allegiance to support and defend the Constitution of the
United States.
Mr. Doyle. I direct the witness to answer that question. I am
sure you heard me. Witness.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. ScHERER. You cannot refuse to answer because you do not want
to aid and abet this committee. That is not a reason to refuse to an-
swer. There are a lot of people wlio don't want to help, to aid and
abet this committee; and 90 percent of them are Communists, more
than that. There are a lot of fellow travelers who don't want to aid
and abet this committee.
Mr. Wastila. Well, I must repeat that since I don't want to become
a partj^ to anything which I consider is posing a threat to the freedom
of speech and press of our country and because, under tlie right of
freedom of speech, I have the riglit to refuse to answer the question, I,
therefore, invoke the first amendment and refuse to answer and also
invoke, to further complement the declination, the fiftli amendment,
wliich states that I don't have to testify in any way against myself.
Mr. ScHERER. Let us see if this question interferes with your free-
dom of the press or freedom of speech : Did you ever serve in the armed
services of the United States ?
Mr. Wastila. Since this is part of that hearing which I believe is
posing a threat to the freedom of speech and press in our country,
which I don't want to aid in any way, I am going to invoke my rights
under the first amendment and refuse to answer
IVIr. ScHERER. Mr. Chairman
Mr. Wastila (continuing). And I also invoke my rights under the
fifth amendment.
Mr. ScHERER. Do you mean it would incriminate you to tell this
committee whether or not you ever served in the Armed Forces of the
United States and that it would interfere with the freedom of the
press and freedom of speech to tell us whether you ever served as a
member of the Armed Forces of tlie United States ? Do you mean to
tell us that, Witness ? How silly can we get ?
Mr. Wastila. I do not have to furnish links of evidence against my-
self in any way under the fifth amendment, and I invoke my rights un-
der the fifth and decline to answer that question: but also because I
do not want in any way to aid and abet a hearing which I believe is
posing a threat to the freedom of speech and press of our country and,
therefore, I invoke my rights under the first, also.
Mr. ScHERER. jVIr. "Chairman, I ask that you direct the witness to
answer the question whether he ever served in the Armed Forces of
the United States.
548 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Doyle. I instruct you to answer the question. I have never
known of even a Communist pleading in good faith that service in the
United States Armed Forces would incriminate him.
You see, some of us do not believe that service with the United
States Government incriminates a man. We do not believe it incrim-
inates you if you are proud of being a citizen of the United States. Is
that plain enough ?
I instruct you to answer.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wastila. Well, as I have stated so many times, since I do not
want to become a party, do not want to help in any way something
which I believe is jeopardizing freedom of speech and press of our
country, I refuse to answer and I invoke my rights under the first ; and,
secondly, since I do not want to answer anything which is going to open
up whole series of other questions, I invoke my rights under the fifth
and decline to answer that question.
Mr. ScHERER. Do you mean you are afraid we are going to ask you
something about illegal activities while you were a member of the
x4.rmed Forces ? Is that the area that you are afraid we will open up
if you answer the question that you did serve in the Armed Forces of
the United States ? Is that what you mean ?
Mr. Wastila. Again, I repeat that since I do not want to become a
party to or to help anything which I believe is jeopardizing the free-
dom of speech and press of our country, I invoke my rights under the
first and refuse to answer, and I also invoke my rights under the fifth,
which states that I do not have to testify to anything against myself.
Mr. ScHERER. I have no further questions. It is obvious what is
happening.
Mr. Doyle. May I ask just a couple of questions, please?
Your stock answer to most of these questions has been, in sub-
stance, to the effect that this cormnittee of the United States Congress
is operating in a line which would interfere with the freedom of press
and freedom of speech ; is that not correct ? Do I so understand that
that is your plea, that that is your position ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wastila. Yes.
Mr. Doyle. Now, let me be frank with you. Therefore, your
claiming that privilege, if you do it in good faith, means that when
the United States Congress, again this year by unanimous vote of the
House of Representatives, approved the continuation of this com-
mittee— House Committee on Un-American Activities and, therefore,
this subcommittee — and unanimously approved the budget necessary
to pay the expenses of the House Committee on Un-American Activi-
ties, you take the position that every Member of the United States
House of Representatives who voted unanimously for this committee
and the budget did so knowing that they were interfering with the
freedom of the press and the freedom of speech; is that a fair
statement ? Is that your position ?
Mr. Wastila. My position is that this coimnittee, by its actions, is
posing a threat to the freedom of s]Deech and the press of our country ;
and, for that reason, I have invoked and again invoke my rights under
the first amendment and declined to answer.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 549
Mr, Doyle. You were here this morning, were you not i Were you
here this mornin<^ and did you hear me read my statement ?
Mr. Wastila. I was.
Mr. DoTLE. Makino; it, I think, crystal clear we are not going
into jurisdiction or freedom of the press here, but merely to the
extent that Imown Communists have been identified to us by Mr.
Lautner, which includes you and others who have been identihed by
him and others as known Connnunists — we are going into the extent
to which identified Communists control the foreign-language press.
You seem to overlook that, and that is the limit of our purpose in
this hearing. We do not hesitate to question you, sir, having been
identified to us as an active Communist, as you have been, of record,
by folks under oath. We do not hesitate to question you.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Doyle. So you volunteered the statement in the first 3 or 4
minutes — will you please listen to me, Counsel, while I am
Mr. Steinberg. I am sorry. Excuse me for interrupting you.
Mr. Doyle. I think I am entitled to have the witness hear my ques-
tion.
Therefore, we do not hesitate to question you, sir, because you volun-
teered the information that you were an editor of a foreign-language
paper. You volunteered that and the record will so show, I am sure.
Mr. Wastila. May I correct the statement, Chairman? I volun-
teered that I was an editor.
Mr. DoYLES. Well, all right. Of what paper are you an editor, as
long as you volunteered that? You opened up the subject, and I
have a legal right to ask you of what paper are you editor ?
Mr. Wastila. And I answer in the same way : That since I don't
want to become a party or to help anything which I believe is jeopard-
izing the freedom of speech and press of our country, I invoke my
rights under the first amendment and decline to answer, and also my
rights under the fifth — that portion which states that I do not liave to
testify to anything against myself.
Mr. Doyle. In other words, you do not believe
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Doyle. I stand interrupted again by counsel.
Mr. SteinberCx. I am sorry, Mr. Doyle, but tliere are certain
things
Mr. Doyle. This is not a court. Being born in this country you
cannot help but be a native-born American citizen — some of them are
not ])roud of it. You cannot help it ; you were born in Massachusetts.
But you take the position that your own United States Congress has
no riglit, under Public Law 601 or under the subversive activities
control law, to find out the extent to which any of its newspapers —
and it happens to be now the foreign-language papers — are controlled
by tlie Communist conspiracy. That is your position, is it not ? You
claim that interfering
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
^h\ Doyle. Wait a minute. Counsel, let me finish. I am not asking
liim to answer before he gets your wise counsel.
Mr. Steinberg. Thank you.
Mr. Doyle. Let me finish my question. You take the position,
therefore, that even though the United States Congress has unani-
550 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
]nously declared, which it has time and again, made a finding that the
Communist Party in the United States is a conspiracy to overthrow —
you take the position that the United States Congress has no right to
find the extent to which that foreign ideology is undertaking to con-
trol our newspapers, especially now the foreign-language newspapers.
That is your position, is it not ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wastila. Well, Mr. Chairman, I don't want to go into the ques-
tion of the whole Congress or of the laws. I do not question the rights
of Congress, nor do I question the laws of our country. I do question
the methods of tliis committee, and it is this very hearing which I be-
lieve is posing a threat to freedom of speech and the press of our coun-
try ; and for that very reason, since I do not want to aid and abet in
any way something which I consider is posing such a threat, it is for
that very reason that I invoke my rights under the first
Mr. Doyle. Let me ask you this: You have been identified right
here ; in other words, we presented the witness, under oath, w^ho iden-
tified you as a Communist Party member, personally known to him.
You liave not denied it. We have given you the opportunity, and
give you the opportunity again, in the presence of your counsel, right
here and now, if you want to deny it under oath. We take the posi-
tion, sir, that you have been identified as a Communist wheelhorse, as
a Communist Party leader in your own State and neighboring States,
that you are going around certain States giving Communist Party
speeches. You do not deny that.
Mr. Wastila. What is the question ?
Mr, DoTLE. Now, do you take the position that the United
States Congress and this committee today have no right to call you in
under Public Law 601 and find out the extent to which you, an identi-
fied Communist, control the newspapers of which you are an editor?
We are assigned, under Public Law 601, which I hold in my hand, to
find the extent to which subversive people and programs control and
hold any newspaper or anything else. And you are in a position of
control of a Finnish newspaper, I assume from what you have said.
Mr. Wastila. Well, I believe anybody could — you could call in any-
body from the Chicago Tribime or Chicago Daily News and ])ut him in
the same position that I am, and then throw the questions at him.
Mr, Doyle. We would not unless he had been identified, as you have,
as an active Communist. If we get that identification, we will call in
anybody in the performance of our duty, no matter in what paper he is
a controlling factor. It does not make any difference to us. Our duty
is the same.
You happen to be editor, and identified as a Communist — of a foreign-
language newspaper and that is why you are here, because the foreign-
born people of the first and second generation, thousands of them, do
not read English yet and they take hook, line, and sinker anything you
write in the Finnish language about our Government and our processes,
just as that young lady did this morning, copy a dastardly attack on
our Armed Forces during the Korean war, and her readers swallowed
it hook, line, and sinker because most of them could not read English
or, if they did, they believed it because it appeared in the paper.
That is why we are here. You know very well why we are here,
and the fact that the United States House of Representatives keeps on
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 551
authorizing this committee's budget by unanimous vote shows what the
United States Congress thinks of our duty. And I want to say to you
that work on this committee is no picnic. It is no pleasurable duty,
I assure you, to call men, like you, who have been identified to us by
responsible American citizens as Connnunists and put you under oath
and try to get you to help your Government instead of weakening it
and destroying it. This is no picnic, sir.
When we find men who take 2 or 3 or 4 different names in the
course of a few years, w^e understand. We are not in kindergarten.
Two and two make four, even if you or someone else is testifying.
Will you identify, now, what this committee has done today that
is violating your right as an identified Communist, wherein have we
violated your right as an editor ? Tell us. You have charged us with
that. Go ahead and tell us. What right of yours have we violated,
as an identified Communist editor of a foreign-language newspaper'^
We are not interfering with the freedom of the press. But we are
going to keep on interfering with your freedom to do as you please
as an identified Communist to misinform and miseducate the foreign-
language readers of your vicinity. We cannot do less than that under
our legal assignment. If we did less than that, we should get off this
committee. But it still is no picnic. It is a hard job, an unpleasant
job.
Mr. Arens. Do you suppose we have interfered with the prospect of
a good audience at your next several speaking engagements over the
country by this testimony in which you have been identified as a mem-
ber of the Communist conspiracy ? Could you help us on that?
Mr. Wastila. Counsel, since I do not want to become a party to any-
thing which I consider is jeopardizing the freedom of speech and
press in our country, I invoke my riglits under the first amendment
and decline to answer and also under the fifth amendment, that por-
tion that states I don't have to testify against myself.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest, Mr. Chairman, that will con-
clude the staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. ScuERER. It should be pointed out that he can now continue as
he has in the past to publisli the Finnish newspaper and include in it
the same kind of material that he has always included, that he can
continue to make his speeches over this country, nobody is going to
stop him. All this committee is doing is showing to the people w^ho
read your paper — and they have a right to know — and the people who
listen to you, who you are.
Mr. Doyle. Then I want to do as I almost always do and that is to
urge you to get out of whatever Communist Party relationship you
have and quit feeding your people that garbage. Make your form
of government stronger instead of weaker. Encourage your foreign-
language readers to be immensely proud they are in this country, in-
stead of finding fault in a destructive manner with our Government,
our democratic processes, as the young lady did this morning. She
accused, in effect, the Chicago Congressmen of being "so-called repre-
sentatives of democracy," making light of our representative form
of government, making light of our democratic processes. Why do
you not boost it instead of hurting it ?
Mr. Steinberg. Are we excused?
552 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Arens. Next witness, Mr. Chairman, and I will spell his name
because it is difficult for me to pronounce it — ^W-1-a-d-i-s-l-a-w
K-u-c-h-a-r-s-k-i.
Mr. Doyle. Please raise your right hand.
Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and noth-
ing but the truth, so help you God ?
Mr. KucHARSKi. I do.
Mr. DoTLE. Thank you and please take the chair.
TESTIMONY OF WLADISLAW KUCHARSKI, ACCOMPANIED BY
COUNSEL, PEARL M. HART
Mr. Arens. Please identify yourself by name, residence, and occu-
pation.
Mr. KucHARSKi. Wladislaw Kucharski.
Mr. Arens. Keep your voice up. We cannot hear you.
Mr. Kucharski. I am sorry. It is my voice. I have bronchitis.
Mrs. Hart. He has bronchitis. Keep your voice up. Do the best
you can.
Mr. Arens. What is your name, please ?
Mr. Kucharski. Wladislaw Kucharski.
Mr. Arens. And your residence. Where do you live ?
Mr. Kucharski. Detroit.
Mr. Arens. Wliere in Detroit ?
Mr. Kucharski. You have my address. It is where the subpena
was delivered.
Mr. Arens. Tell us your address. Wliere do you live ?
Mr. Kucharski. 5854 Chene Street.
Mr, Arens. How do you spell Chene ?
Mr. Kucharski. C-h-e-n-e.
Mrs. Hart. C-h-e-n-e.
Mr. Arens. C-h-e-n-e-. Detroit, Mich. ?
Mr. Kucharski, Yes.
Mr, Arens. And your occupation?
Mr. KuciLVRSKi. Journalist.
Mr. Arens. You are appearing today in response to a subpena
which was served upon you by the House Committee on Un-American
Activities ?
Mr. Kucharski. Yes.
Mr. Arens. And you are represented by counsel ?
Mr. Kucharski. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Counsel, kindly identify yourself.
Mrs, Hart, Pearl M, Hart, 30 North La Salle Street, Chicago, 111.
Mr, Arens, Where are you employed ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel,)
Mr, Kucharski, I decline to answer on the first amendment to the
Constitution, also on the fifth amendment to the Constitution,
Mr, Arens, We want to lay before you now 2 or 3 documents. The
first document is a photostatic reproduction of a statement which you
filed and signed with the postal authorities as editor and owner of
Glos Ludowy of Detroit, Mich,, identified as a foreign-language publi-
cation, in the Polish language. And there is your signature.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 553
The second document is a document filed with the State of Michigan,
pursuant to certain of their laws up there, for license which you
filed as editor and owner of the Glos Ludowy Association, the pub-
lishers of Glos Ludowy.
Kindly look at those documents and see if you will be good enough,
while under oath, to verify their authenticity.
(Documents marked "Kucharski Exhibits Nos, 1 and 2," respec-
tively, and retained in committee files.)
Mr. Kucharski. I decline to answer this question on the first amend-
ment and the fifth amendment.
Mr. Arens. Does the number 55101 mean anything to you — 55101 ?
Think a little while about that and see if that means anything to
you, 55101.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Kucharski. I don't understand the question.
Mr. Arens. Do you want to reflect on it a little bit, 55101. That
was your Communist Party card number, was it not?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Arens. Do you recall it? If you do not, just sav I don't recall
it.
Mr. Kucharski. I refuse to answer on the fifth amendment.
]VIr. Arens. Do you know a woman by the name of Bereniece Bald-
win?
Mr. Kucharski. I refuse to answer on the fifth amendment.
Mr. Arens. Bereniece Baldwin told this committee that she knew
you as a member of the Communist conspiracy. Was she lying or
Avas she telling the truth ?
Mr. Kucharski. I refuse to answer on the first and on the fifth
amendments to the Constitution.
Mr. Arens. We have information to the effect that you have re-
ceived over $10,000 in the course of a 3-year period from the Commu-
nist Party for the publication of your paper. Can you help us on
that?
Mr. Kucharski. I refuse to answer on the first amendment and on
tlie fifth amendment to the Constitution.
Mr. Arens. Who is Boleslaw Gebert ?
Mr. Kucharski. I decline to answer on the fifth amendment to the
Constitution.
Mr. Arens. Boleslaw Gebert, He was formerly an official of your
paper, was he not, but is now an official of the Communist Polish
Government in Poland.
Mr. Kucharski. I refuse to answer on the fifth amendment to the
Constitution and first amendment.
Mr. Arens. Wlien were you last in Poland ?
Mr. ScHERER. "VYhat was that last question ?
Mr. Arens. When did you last go to Poland?
Mr. KuciiARSivi. I refuse to answer on the fifth amendment to the
Constitution.
Mr. Arens. I suggest, Mr. Chairman, the witness be ordered and
directed to answer that question.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question, Witness.
90844 — 57— pt. 7 6
554 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. KucHARSKi. Mr. Chairman, I refuse to answer on the ground
of the first amendment to the Constitution and the fifth amendment
to the Constitution.
Mr. Arens. A^^iere and when were you born ?
Mr. KucHARSKi. I was born in Poland.
Mr. Arens. When?
Mr. KucHARSKi. On 25th of August in 1883.
Mr. Arens. When did you come to the United States for perma-
nent residence ?
Mr. KucHARSKi. On August 11, 1912.
Mr. Arens. Are you a citizen ?
Mr. KucHARSKi. Yes, sir.
Mr. Abens. Are you a citizen by naturalization?
Mr. KucHARSKi. Yes, sir.
Mr. Arens. Where and when were you naturalized ?
Mr. KucHARSKi. I had been naturalized in District 14, New York,
the first of February 1926.
Mr. Arens. And when you were naturalized, did you take an
oath of allegiance to support and defend the Constitution of the United
States ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. KucHARSKi. Yes, I did.
Mr. Arens. And, at the time you took that oath of allegiance,
were you a member of the Communist Party ?
Mr. KucHARSKi. No.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. KucHARSKi. No ; I
Mr. Arens. You said "No."
Mr. KucHARSKT. I said on the grounds of the first and fifth.
Mr. Arens. Let the record be clear. When you took the oath of
allegiance and became a citizen of tlie United States were you a
member of the Communist Party ?
Mr. KuciiARSKi. I refuse to answer on the fiftli amendment to the
Constitution.
Mr. Arens. Are you at this moment a member of the Communist
Party?
]Mr. KucpiARSKi, I again answer on the grounds of the fifth amend-
ment to the Constitution.
Mr. Arens. We have a copy of the Communist Daily Worker of
Wednesday, ISIarcli 5, 1941, in wliich your name appears — and after
it "Detroit, Mich." — as one of a number of people joining in a state-
ment on behalf of the Communist Party. Kindly look at that docu-
ment and tell this committee, while you are under oath, wlietlier
that clearly and accurately recites the facts about your participation
in that enterprise.
(Witness conferred with liis counsel.)
Mr. KucHARSKi. I decline to answer this on the first amendment
to tlie Constitution and the fifth amendment to the Constitution.
(Document marked "Kucharski Exhibit No. 3," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr, Arens. How long have you been employed at your present
place of employment ?
INVESTIGATION OF CORDVrUNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S. 555
]Mr. KucHARSKi. I I'efuse to answer on the first amendment to the
Constitution, and the fifth, too.
Mr. Arens. Who is Alice M. Kocel, K-o-c-e-1 ?
Mr. KucHARSKi. I refuse to answer on the fifth amendment to the
Constitution, and the first amendment, too,
Mr. Akexs. Do you know a person by tlie name of Bocho, B-o-c-h-o,
whose last name is M-i-r-c-h-e-f-f, of Detroit; Bocho Mircheff ?
Mr. KucHARSKi. I refused to answer on the grounds of the first
amendment to the Constitution and on the fifth amendment to the
Constitution.
Mr, Arens. ^Yho accompanied you to Cliicago when you came here?
Mr. KucHARSKi, This time?
Mr, Arens. Yes,
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. KucHARSKi. I refuse to answer on the fifth amendment to the
Constitution.
]\Ir. Arens. Did you come by yourself or did you come with other
people ?
Mr. KucHARSKi. I refuse to answer on the first amendment and
fifth amendment to the Constitution, sir.
Mr. Ap>ens. ]\Ir. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that concludes the
staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. Doyle. Mr. Scherer ?
Mr. Scherer. No questions.
]Mr. Doyle. In connection with the testimony of previous witnesses
and before we call the next witness, may I call attention to the
fact that in the Chicago Daily Tribune for Tuesday, March 26, 1957,
part I, page 2, second column, there appears this news release from
Washington, dateline March 25 :
A Federal district court today held that the first amendment, guaranteeing
press freedom, does not bar congressional inquiries into Communist infiltration
of newspapers.
The judge said :
The United States Circuit Court of Appeals already has ruled that the f reedom-
of-press amendment does not bar congressional inquiry in the mediums of mass
communications.
It is very appropriate to read that decision by the distinguished
Federal judge, yesterday in Washington, on a contempt case before
a congressional committee, the judge expressly ruling on the point,
apparently under this dateline.
So, the first amendment, which was pleaded as a bar by the witness
for this one at least, does not bar congressional committees from in-
quiring into Communist infiltration in the newspapers, and that, of
course, is all we are intending and trying to do in this hearing today
and tomorrow.
I have no question of the w^itness.
Thank you, Counsel.
Mr. Arens. The next witness, if you please, INIr. Chairman, will be
Bocho, B-o-c-h-o, last name is Mirchelf , M-i-r-c-h-e-f-f.
Mr. Doyle. Please raise your right hand. Do you solemnly swear
to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help vou
God?
556 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. MiRCHEFF. I do.
Mr. Doyle. Thank you. Have a seat in the witness chair by your
counsel.
TESTIMONY OF BOCHO MIRCHEFF. ACCOMPANIED BY COUNSEL,
PEARL M. HART
Mr. Arens. Would you please identify yourself by name, residence,
and occupation ?
Mr. MiRCHEFF. My name is Bocho Mircheff, 17375 Orleans, Detroit,
Mich.
Mr. Arens. I do not believe we got that address. Give it to us
again, please.
Mrs. Hart. 17375 Orleans, Detroit, Mich.
Mr. Arens. 0-r-l-e-a-n-s ?
Mr. MiRCHEFF. That is right.
Mr. Arens. And your occupation ?
Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. MiRCHEFF. I think this question is not pertinent to my case, so I
decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth amendments to the
Constitution,
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest the witness be
directed and ordered to answer that question.
Mr. DoTLE. I direct and order you to answer that question, AVitness.
Mr. MiRCHEFF. I decline to answer, relying on my rights on the first
and fifth amendments to the Constitution.
Mr. Arens. You are appearing today in response to a subpena that
was served upon you by the House Committee on Un-American Activi-
ties?
Mr. Mircheff. Yes, sir.
Mr. Arens. And you are represented by counsel ?
Mr. Mircheff. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Counsel, kindly identify yourself.
Mrs. Hart. Pearl M. Hart, 30 North La Salle Street, Chicago.
Mr. Arens. Where were you born, Mr. Mircheff ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Mircheff. Bulgaria.
Mr. Arens. When ?
Mr. Mircheff. 1898.
Mr. Arens. When did you come to the United States for permanent
residence ?
Mr. Mircheff. December 1918.
Mr. Arens. Are you a citizen ?
Mr. Mircheff. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Were you naturalized?
ISIr. Mircheff. Yes.
Mr. Arens. "Wliere and when?
Mr. Mircheff. In the District Court of Michigan.
Mr. Arens. When?
Mr. Mircheff. 1938.
Mr. Arens. Were you a Communist when you were naturalized ?
Mr. Mircheff. I refuse to answer, relying on my rights on the
fifth amendment and also on the first amendment to the Constitution.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 557
Mr. Arens. We would like to invite your attention to two exhibits
here.
First is a photostatic reproduction of a document, filed by yourself
or by your paper, the Narodna Volya, of Detroit, Mich., in which you
identify yourself, and are identified along with others, as an official
of that paper — as managing editor of that paper. The second is a
document entitled "Mircheff Tells Them Off." "On January 26, 1954,
Bocho Mircheff, business manager of 'Narodna Volya' " tells off all
the people of the Immigration Service.
This was all under the auspices of the Bulgarian- American Com-
mittee for Protection of Foreign Born.
Look at those two documents, if you please, Mr. Mircheff, and see
if you will be good enough to verify their authenticity while you are
under oath.
(Witness conferred wdth his counsel.)
Mr. Mircheff. Since I don't want to be a party that would violate
the freedom of speech and press, I decline to answer this question, rely-
ing on my rights on the first and fifth amendments to the Constitution
of the United States.
(Documents marked "Mircheff Exhibits Nos. 1 and 2," respectively
and retained in committee files.)
Mr. Arens. Do you know a man by the name of John Lautner?
Mr. Mircheff. I decline, the same answer as before — I decline to
answer, relying on my rights under the first and fifth amendments
to the Constitution.
]Mr. Arexs. This morning ]Mr. Lautner took an oath before this com-
mittee and swore he knew you as a Communist. That is a pretty serious
charge these days, because we all know Communists are traitors to
this country. Was this man lying when he identified you as a Com-
munist traitor ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Mircheff. Sir, what part of this is a question ?
Mr. Arexs. Mr. Chairman, I suggest the witness be directed to
answer that question and not parry with me.
Mr. Doyle. I think the question was pretty clear. I instruct you to
answer.
Mrs. Hart. May I make a remark to the chairman, please, very
respectfully ?
I think it would help these proceedings very materially if the ques-
tions were limited to questions and not have personal observations
added to them.
Mr. Scherer. With or without tlie personal observation, I am sure
the witness' answer is going to be, "I decline to answer."
Mrs. Hart. Then I think the question ought not be asked originally.
Mr. Arens. You know your sole and exclusive prerogative is to
advise your client.
Mrs. Hart. I was addressing myself to the chairman, if you don't
mind. Counsel.
Mr. Doyle. Will you ask the same question, again, or have the
reporter read it, Mr. Arens, please?
558 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. SciiERER. May I restate it so you will know the question. Mr.
Lautner identified you, under oath, as a member of the Communist
Party. Was Mr. Lautner telling the committee the truth when he
so identified you?
Mr. MiRCHEFF. I refuse to answer the question, relying on my
rights on the fifth amendment of the Constitution of the United States.
Mr. Arens. Now, Mr. Mircheff, as a witness before this committee,
you are entitled to certain witness' fees, and it is necessary for you to
sign a voucher. In order tliat there be no misunderstanding what my
objective and purpose is, I ask you if you will sign a voucher now for
your pay as a witness so that we may have a comparison of signatures,
to compare that signature with the signature which appears, "'Bocho
Mircheff,'" on a Communist Party nominating petition. So there will
be no sense of entrapment or misunderstanding of my purpose, I lay
before you a photostatic reproduction of that petition bearing your
signature.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Mircheff. Sir, I am not ready to sign my voucher yet.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that if and
when this witness signs this pay voucher that that part of the pay
voucher, bearing his signature, be incorporated in the body of the
record so that there may be a comparison of signatures.
Mr. Doyle. So ordered. The witness might like to give his witness
fee to the American Red Cross or sometliing like that.
(Documents marked "Mircheff Exhibits Nos. 3 and 4," respectively,
follow:)
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 559
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INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
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INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 561
Mrs. Hart. He would still have to sign for it, Mr, Chairman.
Mr. DoTLE. He ought to be willing to sign for it if it amoimts to a
donation to the American Red Cross, I would think.
Mr. Arens. There is no other organization to which you would be
disposed to make a donation at this time besides the Red Cross, is there ^
i\Irs. IL\RT. You don't have to answer that.
Mr. Arexs. I would like to ask you whether or not you have ever
been president of the Bulgarian-American People's League.
Mr. ]MiRciiEFF. I decline to answer this question, relying on my
rights on the first and fifth amendments to the constitution.
Mr. Arens. I lay before you now a photostatic reproduction of a
call to a Michigan State conference for civil rights [April 1
and 2, 1949, sponsored by the Civil Rights Congress] in which you
are identified as president of the Bulgarian- American Peoples League.
I ask you if you will be good enough to verify the authenticity of
that document.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
!Mr. ScHERER. While he is looking, Mr. Comisel, I want to ask you
a question.
Mr. IVIiRCHEFF. Sir, I decline to answer this question on the basis
of the first and fifth amendments.
(Document marked ''"Mirchefi' Exhibit Xo. o," and retained in
committee files. )
Mr. ScHERER. Counsel— our counsel.
Mrs. Hart. Oh, pardon.
Mr. Scherer. Is the Bulgarian newspaper, with which this witness
has been identified, printed in English or m Bulgarian ?
Mr. Arexs. It is printed in Bulgarian.
I would like to ask you now the names of some other people identi-
fied with the paper and see if you can help us.
Smeale Voydanoff, S-m-e-a-1-e V-o-y-d-a-n-o-f-f, who is identified
in this document we exhibited to you as president of Xarodna Volya.
Could you help us with that ? Do jon know him ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. jNImcuEFF. I decline to answer this question on the basis of
the first and fifth amendments to the Constitution.
Mr. Arexs. Stancho Dimitrolf, S-t-a-n-c-h-o D-i-m-i-t-r-o-f-f. Do
you know him ?
]\Ir. IMiRCKEFF. Same answer.
]\Ir. Arens. Nicholas I\Iarkoff . Do you know him ?
]\Ir. MiRCHEFF. Same answer.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest, ]Mi\ Chairman, that concludes
the staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. DoYT.E. Mr. Scherer ?
Mr. Scherer. Witness, you are familiar with the atrocities in Hun-
gary, are you not?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. ]\IiRCHEFF. Sir, this question is not pertinent to the subject
matter.
Mr. Scherer. It is real pertinent. This is a real pertinent question.
Mr. MiRCHEFF. And I decline to answer this question on the basis
of the first amendment to the Constitution of the United States which
562 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
guarantees freedom of the press and free speech and also the fifth
amendment of the Constitution.
Mr. SciiERER. Can you read English ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mrs. Hart. Tell them. I don't know.
Mr. MiRCHEFF. Yes.
Mr. ScHERER. Do you read the newspapers in this country, and
magazines ?
Mr. MiRCHEFF. Naturally.
Mr. ScHERER. Did you say "naturally" ?
Mr. MiRCHEFF. I do read.
Mr. ScHERER. During the months of November and December of
last year and January of this year, have you read in the newspapers
of this country and in the magazines, accounts of the atrocities com-
mitted by the Russians in Hungary ?
("Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. ]\IiRCHEFF. Sir, I have read newspapers.
Mr. ScHERER. Will you answer my question.
Mr. MiRCHEFF. "\'\niat is your question ?
Mr. ScHERER. I thought it was clear. I will repeat it again. Have
you read
Mr. MiRCHEFF. I have read the newspapers.
jNIr. ScHERER. Have you read in those newspapers accounts of the
atrocities committed by the Russians in Hungary during the months
of last November and December?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. MiRCHEFF. Sir, but this is not pertinent to the subject matter.
Mr. ScHERER. Mr. Chairman, I ask 3'ou direct the witness to answer
the question.
]Mr. Doyle. You are directed to answer the question, Witness.
Mrs. Hart. INIay I ask the Chair to rule upon whether or not what
he means is pertinent to the subject of the inquiry.
Mr. ScHERER. It is a j^reliminary question, Mr. Chairman.
]Mr. Doyle. I assume it is preliminary by ^Mr. Scherer because he is
a very experienced and brilliant lawyer.
Mr. Scherer. Not brilliant, but experienced.
Mr. Doyle. He knows how to lay the foundation.
INIrs. Hart. He is very modest at the moment.
Mr. Doyle. That is his habit.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. MiRCHEFF. Sir, I have read what the papers said about
Hungary.
Mv. Scherer. I want to know whether or not, in this Bulgarian
newspaper of yours, you have ever printed one line condemning the
Russians' actions in Hungary.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. MiRCHEFF. Sir, I am not responsible what is printed in our
paper, so I decline to answer this question on the basis of the first
amendment.
Mr. Scherer. You say you are not responsible for what is printed
in "our" paper ? Then I ask you, as a matter of fact, whether or not
if it is not a fact that in your paper not one line was ever printed
condemning the actions of the Russians with reference to the mas-
sacres that took place in Hungary.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 563
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. MxKCHEFF. Sir, I said — when I said "our paper," I am mean-
ing Hungarian papers.
Mr. ScHERER. I am talking about the specific paper, and I cannot
pronounce the name of it, but the one in which you register as man-
aging editor.
Mr. Arens. Managing editor of Narodna Volya.
Mr. JMiRCHEFF. My answer is I don't control w^hat is printed in
that parser, Narodna Volya.
Mr. ScHERER. Let me see that. Wliether you control what is printed
in the paper or not, I am asking you, as a matter of fact, whether this
newspaper, this Bulgarian newspaper, with which you are identified
as the managing editor, ever printed one line condemning the Russian
atrocities in Hungary.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. MiRCHEFF. Sir, I do not control what is printed in our paper.
Mr. ScHERER. I understand. You said that.
Mr. IMiRCHEFF. In our papers, so I don't
Mr. ScHERER. Assuming you do not control what is printed in your
papers, I am asking you whether or not this paper, Narodna Volya —
how do you pronounce that, Mr. Counsel ?
Mrs. Hart. Tell them how to pronounce it.
Mr. JMiRCHEFF. Narodna Volya.
Mr. ScHERER. Narodna Volya.
Mrs. Hart. You can't do it, ]\Ir. Congressman — V-o-l-y-a.
Mr. ScHERER. In what capacity are you identified with that paper ?
Mr. MiRCHEFF. Sir, I refuse to answer this cpiestion, relying on my
constitutional rights under the first and fifth amendments to the Con-
stitution.
Mr. ScHERER. You saw this document which names you as the man-
aging editor of that paper. Is this document correct in so naming
you?
Mr. ]\IiRCHErF. Sir, I refuse to answer this question on the same
basis, the first and fifth amendments.
Mr. SciiERER. Now we get back to my original question. Has the
newspaper N-a-r-o-d-n-a V-o-l-y-a — has this Bulgarian newspaper
printed one word condemning the actions of the Eussians in Hmigary ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. MiRCHEFF. Sir, since I am not in control of what is printed in
that paper, I will not answer this question. You could have trans-
lators translate and find out what has been printed.
Mr. ScHERER. I respectfully submit, ]Mr, Chairman, that he
should be directed to answer the question,
j\Ir. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question. Whether or not
you are in control of the paper is not the question. The question is
whether or not that particular newspaper has printed, as my col-
league says even one line. You have read the newspapers, of course,
with which you are connected.
]\Ir. ]MiRcnEFF, Sir, I don't know.
]\Ir. DoYEE. You have not read your own paper in connection with
the Hungarian revolt ?
Mr. MiRCHEFF. My answer is just that I don't know.
564 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Doyle, You don't know ?
Mr. SciiERER. That newspaper is printed in Bulgarian, is it not ?
Mr. IViiRCHEFF. I didn't understand the question.
Mr. ScHERER. That newspaper is printed in Bulgarian language, is
it not?
Mr. MiRCHEFF. Yes.
Mr. ScHERER. It is a Bulgarian-language newspaper.
Mr. MiRCHEFF. Yes.
Mr. ScHERER. And there are many Bulgarians here in the United
States who cannot read English, is that not true? You know that
of your own loiowledge, do you not ?
Mr. MiRCHEFF. I assume.
Mr. ScHERER. Not that you asume. You know that, as a matter of
fact.
Mr. MiRCHEFF. I tliink there are.
Mr. Doyle. May I make this one observation ?
My country, my Nation, the United States of America, gave me
the honor and privilege of being born in it. It honored and trusted
you when it granted you naturalization papers. Wliy do you not re-
turn the favor and actually practice the habit of renouncing loyalties
to foreign ideologies, for instance, the Communist program and Com-
munist support in tlie Bulgarian papers with which you are con-
nected, even though you do not control it? ^Y\lJ do you not encour-
age them to strengthen the American way of life instead of the
Communist way of life?
My father was an immigrant, and I am proud of it.
It always gets me when a man like you comes to my country and
prospers financially, and then you become naturalized and refuse to
take every chance to strengthen the Government that gives you pros-
perity and asylum.
AVliy do you not repay the United States of America and make it
stronger instead of weaker. Assuming that you are a member of
the Communist Party because that is the sworn testimony, why do
you not get rid of that garbage in your experience and come out clean
in support of our American form of government instead of weakening
it, because that is all the Communist Party does, to weaken and destroy,
disrupt, and try to dissolve ?
It seems to me that you, as a foreign-born, naturalized citizen, owe
something, besides making money, to the United States people who
gave you a place in which to be prosperous.
If I lectured you, that is what I meant to do in a dignified way be-
cause I feel it very keenly. Wliy do you not call it quits with the
party and do something else that strengthens instead of weakens?
Thank you very much.
Mrs. Hart. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Mr. Arens. The next witness, if you please, Mr. Chairman, is Mr.
Nicliolas Markoff, N-i-c-h-o-l-a-s M-a-r-k-o-f-f .
Mr. Doyle. Please raise your riglit hand.
Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing
but tlie truth, so help you God ?
Mr. jNIarkoff. Yes.
]Mr. Doyle. Take the witness chair.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 565
TESTIMONY OF NICHOLAS MARKOFF, ACCOMPANIED BY
COUNSEL, PEARL M. HART
Mr. Arens. Kindly identify yourself by name, address, and occu-
pation.
Mr. Markoff. Nicholas Markoff, 1929 Outer Drive.
Mr. Arens. I did not understand.
Mrs. Hart. 1929 Outer Drive (Detroit) .
Mr. Arens. Who was the man who just left this witness chair?
Could you tell us ?
( Witness conferred with his counsel. )
Mrs. Hart. I would like to address the chairman for a moment,
please.
Mr. Doyle. No. Go ahead, please, counsel.
Mr. Arens. Kindly answer the question. Who was the man who
just left the witness chair ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Doyle. If he knows if he saw him.
Mrs. Hart. If the Chair please, the man was here and announced
his name and address
Mr. Arens. Counsel, you know you are in violation of the rules of
the United States Congress.
Mrs. Hart. I am not violating the rules of the United States Con-
gress.
Mr. Arens. Answer the question.
Mrs. Hart. And I don't have to have you talk to me that way in
that tone of voice.
Mr. Arens, Witness, please answer the question. Wlio was the man
who just left the witness chair ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Markoff. I refuse to answer on the grounds of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. You are appearing today in response to a subpena which
was served upon you by the House Committee on Un-American
Activities ?
Mr. Markoff. Yes.
Mr. Arens. And you are represented by counsel ?
Mr. Markoff. Yes, sir.
Mr. Arens. Counsel, identify yourself, please.
Mrs. Hart. Pearl M. Hart, 30 "North LaSalle Street, Chicago, 111.,
State 2-3213, counsel, for the record.
Mr. Arens. Where are you employed, sir ?
Mr. Markoff. I decline to answer this question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. You are employed, are you not, as one of the officers
and treasurer of the publishing firm of Narodna Volya?
Mr. Markoff. I decline to answer this question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments, sir.
Mr. Arens. I lay before you now a photostatic reproduction of the
statement which you filed with your signature with the postal author-
ities, filed under oath, in which you identified yourself as one of the
officers of the Narodna Volya of Detroit, Mich., a foreign-language
publication.
566 INVESTIGATION OF COMIVIUNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S.
Kindly look at that document and tell this committee, while you
are under oath, whether that is a true and correct reproduction of the
document which you signed under oath.
Mr. JMarkoff. I decline to answer this question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments, sir.
(Document previously identified as "ISiircheff Exhibit No. 1" and
retained in committee files.)
Mr. Arens. Now, I lay before you a statement of ownership, which
is required by the postal laws, published in your paper, Narodna
Volya, in which you identify yourself as editor of Narodna Volya.
Please look at that and tell us whether or not that is a true and cor-
rect reproduction of the statement of ownership appearing in your
paper.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Markoff. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments, sir.
(Document marked "Markoff Exhibit No. 1," and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. Arexs. Are you now a member of the Communist conspiracy ?
Mr. Markoff. I decline to answer on the first and fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. Where and when were you born ?
Mr. JNIarkoff. Bulgaria.
Mr. Arens. "\\nien?
Mr. IVIarkoff. 1898.
Mr. Arens. When did you come to the United States for permanent
residence ?
Mr. ]VL\RKOFF. 1923.
Mr. Arens. Wlien?
Mr. Markoff. 1923.
Mr. Arens. 1923 ?
Mr. ]\La.rkoff. Yes, sir.
]\Ir. Arens. Are you a citizen ?
Mr. Markoff. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Are you naturalized?
Mr. Markoff. Yes, sir.
Mr. Arens. Where and when were you naturalized ?
Mr. ]\£\RKOFF. November 19, 1928.
Mr. Arens. 1928?
Mr. JNIarkoff. That is right.
Mr. Arens. "Wliere?
Mr. Markoff. In Niagara Falls, N. Y.
Mr. Arens. "\Yliere?
Mrs. Hart. Niagara Falls, N. Y., where married couples used to
go, you know.
Mr. Arens. When you were naturalized as a citizen of the United
States, were you a member of the Communist conspiracy ?
Mr. Markoff. I decline to answer this question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments, sir.
Mr. Arens. Do you know George Pirinsky ?
Mr. Markoff. I decline to answer on the same basis, the first and
fifth amendments, sir.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 567
Mr. Arens. How many times have you been back to the old country
since you came to the United States ?
Mr. MiRKOFF. I decline to answer this question.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest, Mr. Chairman, that the witness
be ordered and directed to answer the question.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question. Witness.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Markoff. I decline to answer this question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments, sir.
Mr. Arens. We want to inform you that, as a prerequisite to
obtaining your pay as a witness from this committee, it is necessary
for you to sign a pay voucher; but in order that there be no misunder-
standing about what our objective is, I have here a petition signed
by yourself for the Communist Party, bearing your signature. I am
going to ask you if you will now, while you are under oath, sign in
the appropriate place on the pay voucher so that there may be a
comparison of signatures.
I want no misunderstanding of our objective — so there may be a
comparison of signatures between the signature we have on this peti-
tion of the Communist Party and your signature on the voucher.
I ask you now to kindly sign the pay voucher.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Markoff. I will sign it later.
Mr. Arexs. jNIr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that if, as, and
when this witness signs the pay voucher, that part of the pay voucher
bearing his signature be incorporated in the body of the record, for
the purpose of comparison of signatures.
Mr. Doyle. So ordered.
Mr. Arens. I lay before you a petition of the Communist Party,
bearing your signature, Nicholas Markoff, 1310 East Ferry Avenue,
Detroit, and ask you if you would be good enough to verify the
authenticity of that document.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Markoff. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments, sir.
(Documents marked "Markoff Exhibits Nos. 2 and 3," respectively,
follow.)
568 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Markoff Exhibit No. 2
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN TJ. S.
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570 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Akexs. Are you now, this moment, a member of the Commu-
nist Party ?
Mr. M^vRKOFF. I decline to answer this question on the same basis,
the first and fifth amendments, sir.
Mr. Arens. Did you ever serve in the Armed Forces of this Gov-
ernment ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Markoff. No.
Mr. Arens. In 1946 did you go to Yugoslavia ?
Mr. Makkoff. I decline to answer this question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments, sir.
Mr. Arens. I suggest, Mr. Chairman, that the witness be ordered
and directed to answer that question.
Mr. D0YI.E. I direct you to answer the question, witness.
Mr. Markoff. I decline to answer this question on the fii-st and fiftli
amenchnents.
Mr. Arens. Is your paper an instrumentality of the Communist
propaganda apparatus ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Markoff. I decline to answer this question on the same grounds,
the first and fifth amendments, sir, to the United States Constitution.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest, Mr. Chairman, that will con-
clude the staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. DoTLE. Mr. Scherer.
Mr. Scherer. You refused to answer all of tlie pertinent questions
asked of you by counsel on tlie grounds that to do so might tend to
incriminate you.
Now, tlie law provides that this committee, with the approval of
the Federal court, may grant you immunity. In other words, it can
say to you — as I say, with the approval of the Federal court — that if
you do answer the question, then any answers that you give to those
questions may not be used against you. If this committee should de-
cide to invoke that statute and grant you immunity from prosecution,
would you testify ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Markoff. I don't think it is necessary to answer this question
because
Mr. Scherer. I cannot hear you.
Mr. Markoff. I don't think it is necessary to answer that question
because nothing
Mr. Scherer. I still did not get your answer.
Mi*s. Hart. Nothing has been done.
Mr. Markoff. Has been done.
Mr. Scherer. I am merely saying it takes a lot of effort on the com-
mittee's part to make application to a Federal court for approval:
and I am saying, if this conunittee should decide, because it feels that
you do have information which would be helpful to this committee —
this committee decides that it will offer vou immunity, will vou then
testify?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Markoff. I have to decide this when they offer immunity and
I see it is properly
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN" U. S. 571
Mr. jVL^rkoff (continuing) . Then I will decide.
Mr. ScHERER. I have no further questions.
Mr. DoTL£. May I ask a question ?
What year were you naturalized, please ?
Mi-s. Hart. 1928, November.
Mr. Markoff. ]\Iy naturalization papers
Mr. Doyle. Your naturalization
Mr. Markoff. 1928, if I am correct.
Mr. Doyle. 1928?
Mr. MARKOFF. Yes.
Mr. Doyle. I see this Communist Party petition is in March 1940.
Without ni}' taking time to say what I said to your business associate,
who was the witness before you — did you hear what I said to him, the
witness who was before you, who was identified with the same paper ?
You heard what I said to him ?
Mr. MvRKOFF. Yes.
Mr. Doyle. You heard it ?
Mr. jVIarkoff. Yes.
Mr. Doyle. Without my repeating it, take that onto yourself, will
you? Just consider that I am taking the 2 minutes to say the same
thing to you.
Mr. Arexs. Mr. Chairman, I should like now to call Mr. Anzelm
Czarnowski to the stand. I will say, for the purpose of this record,
Mr. Czarnowski testified as a friendly witness before this committee on
December 4 of last year, at which time he identified a certain person as
a Communist.
It appears, on the basis of staff investigation, that there is another
person in this vicinity who bears the same name, and we want Mr.
Czarnowski to be able to clear the record so that the stigma of Com-
munist Party membership will not attach to the individual who bears
the same name as the person who is a Communist of that name.
Mr. Czarnowski, would you kindly be sworn ?
Mr. Doyle. That is very good, because that is the established policy
of this committee, to make sure there is no intentional cloud on any
person.
Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing
but the truth, so help you, God ?
Mr. Czarnowski. I do.
Mr. Doyle. Will you please have the witness chair.
TESTIMONY OF ANZELM CZAENOWSKI
Mr. Arexs. Mr. Czarnowski, you testified before the Committee on
Un-American Activities in the early part of December 1956. Is that
correct ?
Mr. CzARxowsKi. Yes, sir.
Mr. Arexs. During the course of your testimony you identified
a pereon known by you to have been a Communist, by the name of
Kaymond Sergo, S-e-r-g-o. Is that correct ?
Mr. CzARXowsKi. Yes, sir ; known as Ray Sergo.
yiv. Arexs. Could you tell us just a litle more about that person's
identification, his background, and liis occupation from the standpoint
of identification?
572 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. CzARNOwsKi. The person I have identified as a Communist, his
name was Ray Sergo, an employee of the Electromotive Division of the
General Motors Corp., now employed, I believe, with the Burlington
Railroad.
After I returned, 2 days later, I believe, or 1 day later after this
testimony, I received a call from Ray Sergo ; and it happened so that
there is another Ray Sergo who is a teacher, a law-abiding citizen, a
good American, who is a schoolteacher in the same town where this
quisling lived. Communist.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, we have the original affidavit by
Raymond Mathew Sergo, from Lyons, 111., that he has submitted to
the committee, under oath, denying that he has ever been a member
of the Communist Party.
Our staff investigation checked this out clearly. So, for the purpose
of clarity of our record, I suggast this affidavit now, in total, be
incorporated in the body of the record.
Mr. Doyle. So ordered. And the committee wants to compliment
the staff' and the witness in clearing this up so that the right man
will be identified but not the wrong man.
(The affidavit follows:)
I, Raymoud Mathew Sergo, was born in Hodgkins, 111., on April 26, 1914. My
early cbiklhood was spent in Hodgkins. I lived in Lyons from the time I was 7
until I was 28.
My education began with 1 year at the Ideal School, District 105, La Grange,
111. It continued through fifth grade at Washington Public School, District 103,
Lyons, and I graduated from St. Hugh's Parochial School in Lyons, 111., in 1928.
I attended Lyons Township High School in La Grange, 111., frcjm 1928 through
1932. I graduated and enrolled at J. Sterling Morton Junior College and gradu-
ated in 1935.
In 1936 I began working for the Universal Oil Products Co., as a Petroleum
Analyst and .Junior Chemist. I worked here until 1946. At this time I left and
returned to school at the American Conservatory of Music. I remained here for
approximately 1 year and then left to go into business.
I was a partner with Albert Klanyac and John Sergo in the Mayfair Bowling
Lanes, Elston and Lawrence Avenues, in Chicago, 111., for 1 year.
In 1938 I worked for Cummins Business Machines Corp. as a salesman and then
managed the Austin Bowl, at Division and Central Avenues, in Chicago, for Mr.
Louis Gelfand and Mr. Irving Glickman. I remained here for one season and
then bought a home and grocery store in Lyons, 111., in October 1949.
I have lived at 21031/2 Oak Park Avenue, Berwyn, from 1942 until 1946. I
moved back to Lyons in 1946 and have lived there since.
My wife and I operated the store until September 1955. I returned to school
at Chicago Musical College in 1951 and also took courses at Roosevelt University.
I received a Bachelor of Music Education degree in June 1953 from the Chicago
Musical College and began teaching at the Lincoln Elementary School, District
103, Lyons, 111., in September 1953. I have been employed there since as an
eighth grade teacher.
I have resided at 4238 Joliet Avenue since 1949.
I am also a professional musician and have been a member of the American
Federation of Musicians for the past 18 years.
I have taken graduate courses at the University of Chicago since the summer
of 1954 and expect to I'eceive a master's degree soon.
I have never worked at the Electromotive Division Plant of General Motors
Corp., in La Grange, 111.
I am a member of Phi Mu Alpha, honorary music fraternity, and also Phi Delta
Kappa, honorary education fraternity. I have been an officer of the Lyons Lions
Club, of Lions International, a member of St. Hugh's Holy Name Society, and
an active church member of St. Hugh's Parish. For insurance protection I was
enrolled as a youngster into the Croation Fraternal Union and have kept up the
policy all my life.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 573
I have been a member of the Illinois Education Association and the National
Education Association for the past four years.
I am not now a member, and I have never been a member, of the Communist
Party.
March 25, 1957.
Raymond Mathew Seego.
State of Illinois,
County of Cook:
Subscribed to and sworn before me this 25th day of March 1957, by the above-
signed Raymond Sergo.
[seal] Ieene Buta, Notary PuMic.
Mr. Aeexs. Mr. Chairman, there are, I think 3, perhaps 4, wit-
nesses, who are under subpena. We respectfully suggest that the
Chair order that all subpenas outstanding for today be continued until
tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock.
Mr. Doyle. I will make that direction, that all subpenas that are
outstanding and unable to be called today be continued until tomorrow
morning at 10 o'clock in this room.
Mrs. Hart. May I approach the Chair, please?
I submitted 2 certificates this morning of 2 witnesses, whose sub-
penas have been continued. One of them is quite ill. The other one
is not quite ill. Does the Chair want them here tomorrow ?
Mr. Doyle. Do you know of the case ?
Mr. Arens. Are these the two here, counsel, Vincent Andrulis
Mrs. Hart. That is right.
Mr. Arens (continuing). And Alice Yonik.
Mrs. Hart. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Well, the order of the Chair is, or was this morning,
that they will be continued, subject to further call ; and we will com-
nuinicate either with them or with you in the future with reference
to a time for an appearance.
Mrs. PIart. But not for tomorrow ?
Mr. Doyle. Is that satisfactory, counsel ?
Mrs. Hart. That is very satisfactory.
Mr. Doyle. We will recess until tomorrow morning at 10 o'clock.
(Thereupon, at 4: 15 p. m., Tuesday, March 26, 1957, the subcom-
mittee recessed, to reconvene at 10 a. m., Wednesday, March 27, 1957.)
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN THE
UNITED STATES— PART 7
(Chicago, 111., Area)
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27, 1957
United States House of Representatives,
Subcommittee of the
Committee on Un-American Activities,
Chicago, III.
public hearing
The subcommittee of the Committee on Un-American Activities
met, pursuant to recess, in room 209, United States Courthouse, 219
South Clark Street, Chicago, 111., at 10 a. m., Hon. Clyde Doyle
(chairman of the subcommittee) presiding.
Committee members present : Representatives Clyde Doyle of Cali-
fornia and Gordon H. Scherer of Ohio.
Staff members present : Richard Arens, director ; W. Jackson Jones
and Frank Bonora, investigators.
Mr. Doyle. The committee will please come to order.
Let the record show that a legal quorum of the subcommittee of
three is present, Mr. Frazier being absent, Mr. Scherer of Ohio and
Mr. Doyle of California both being present, as they were yesterday
during all of tlie hearings. Both members of the subcommittee pres-
ent were present throughout all of the hearings yesterday.
I want to take this occasion to express our appreciation again
to those in the hearing room for the fine cooperation given us yester-
day, with no disturbance or annoyance of any kind. The committee,
of course, is a work committee. You are here through the courte.sy
of the committee, which is here to work. And tliere is no smoking
in the courtroom, of course, according to the building rules.
I wish to say again, although I know it will not be necessary —
but once in a while in different parts of the country it has been
necessary to remove some person from the hearing room because he
disturbs the meeting. Of course, you cannot expect a congressional
committee to put up with any disturbance either by applause or dis-
approval. So I want to instruct the marshal again and the police
department that if anyone in the room takes it upon himself to dis-
turb the meeting, not to wait for word from me, Mr. Marshal, just
remove that person and do not let him return to the hearing room. I
am sure that is what the rest of the people desire because they do not
want to be disturbed either.
Are you ready, Mr. Arens, with the first witness ?
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir.
575
576 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
The first witness Mr. Chairman, who was scheduled to appear today
was Mr. Carl Hirsch, H-i-r-s-c-h, who is presently editor of the Illi-
nois section of the Daily Worker. We have received a medical cer-
tificate from a doctor to the effect that Mr. Hirsch is under his pro-
fessional care, and recommends that he continue to be confined to
his bed for the present time.
I, therefore, recommend, Mr. Chairman, that this medical certificate
be incorporated by reference in the record, and that the subpena pur-
suant to which Mr. Hirsch was to appear today be continued subject
to a day certain, being specified after we have had time to consult
with our own calendar and perhaps with Mr. Hirsch or his repre-
sentative.
Mr. Doyle. All right. I will make that order at this time.
(The medical certificate identified as "Hirsch Exhibit No. 1" and
retained in committee files.)
Mr. Arens. Therefore, Mr. Chairman, the first witness to be heard
this morning, will be Mr. Otto Wangerin.
Would you kindly come forward?
Mr. Doyle. Raise your right hand.
Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and
nothing but the truth, so help you God ?
Mr. Wangerin. I do.
Mr. Doyle. Thank you. Occupy the chair.
TESTIMONY OF OTTO H. WANGERIN, ACCOMPANIED BY COUNSEL,
IKVING G. STEINBERG
Mr. Arens. Kindly identify yourself by name, residence, and oc-
cupation.
Mr. Wangerin. My name is Otto Wangerin. I live at 6405 South
Dorchester.
Mr. Scherer. How do you spell that last name ?
Mr. WAN(iERiN. W-a-n-g-e-r-i-n.
Mr. Arens. Your occupation, please, sir ?
Mr. Wangerin. I refuse to answer that question based on the
first and fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. You are appearing today in response to a subpena
which was served upon you by the House Committee on Un-American
Activities ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Are you represented by counsel ?
Mr. Wangerin. Yes, sir.
Mr. Arens. Counsel, will you kindly identify yourself?
Mr. Steinberg. My name is Irving G. Steinberg, 180 West Wash-
ington.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Wangerin, I have in my hand a document pre-
viously identified in this record which has been circulated in the last
several days by the Committee To Preserve American Freedoms. In
this document a recitation is given of a number of people who were
subpenaed to appear before the Committee on Un-American Activities
here in Chicago. One of the persons so identified is bookseller Otto
Wangerin, operator of the Modern Book Store. Active for 40 years in
labor and progressive movement.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 577
Kindly look at this document, which has been identified in this rec-
ord, and tell us whether or not you are truthfully and accurately char-
acterized and described ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerix. I decline to answer the question on the basis of
the first and fifth amendments.
(Document previously identified as "DeSchaaf Exhibit No. 2.")
Mr. Arexs. Where were you when you were served with your sub-
pena to appear before this committee ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer the question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. We lay before you a photostatic reproduction of a leaflet
in which the Modern Book Store, 180 West Washington, is character-
ized as a bookstore specializing in labor, progressive, Marxist books,
pamphlets, and periodicals.
Kindly look at tliat document and tell us whether or not, to your
certain knowledge, that is a truthful and accurate description of
the Modern Book Store?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Steinberg. Repeat the question, please.
Please read the question back to the witness.
(Record read by the reporter.)
Mr. Wangerhst. I decline to answer on the same grounds, on the
basis of the first and fifth amendments.
(Document marked "Wangerin Exhibit No. 1" and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. Arexs. "WTiere is the physical location of your employment?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer the question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that the witness
be ordered and directed to answer the question as to the physical loca-
tion as to his place of employment.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer that question. Witness. It is
reasonable, and it certainly couldn't incriminate you to answer that
question.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I still refuse to answer the question based on the
fifth amendment, that portion of the fifth amendment that says no
person can be compelled to testify against himself.
Mr. Arens. In what type of a proceeding ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Arens. Sir, do you honestly apprehend if you told this com-
mittee truthfully whether or not you are the owner and operator of
the Modern Book Store you would be supplying information which
might be used against you in a criminal proceeding ?
(Witness conferred with counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. Yes.
Mr. Arens. We lay before you, if you please, sir, a photostatic repro-
duction of a publication called Friendship, in which is listed the
Modern Book Store, 64 "West Randolph, among other sources, for
obtaining literature which is recommended from the U. S. S. R.
578 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S.
Kindly look at that document and tell us whether or not that is a
true characterization of the material which is sold at the Modern
Book Store ?
(Document marked "Wangerin Exhibit No. 2," and retained in
committee files.)
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Steinberg. I want to point out to the committee that this
session has nothing to do with the announced purpose of the hearing.
Mr. Arens. You know that your sole prerogative is to advise your
client.
Mr. Doyle. You are violating the committee's rules.
Mr. Arens. You know you are violating the committee's rules. If
you were in a court, you would be slapped in jail in 5 minutes for
that conduct.
Mr. Steinberg. I wouldn't be slapped in jail. Don't talk to me that
way.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest, Mr. Chairman, that you admon-
ish the counsel to restrain himself and observe the rules of this
committee.
Mr. Steinberg. I think counsel should be admonished. He shouldn't
tell me I would be put in jail.
Mr. D0Y1.E. Just a minute, Counsel.
What is your answer to the question. Witness ?
Mr. Wangerin. Would you repeat the question, please ?
Mr. Arens. Do you want the question repeated, Witness ?
Mr. Wangerin. Yes ; I do.
Mr. Arens. Kindly repeat the question.
(Record read by the reporter.)
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I refuse to answer that question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendment and also I object on the grounds that this
has nothing to do with the purpose of this hearing.
Mr. Arens. Are you registered or have you ever been registered
under the Foreign Agents Registration Act?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest, that the witness
be ordered and directed to answer the question.
Mr. DoYT.E. I direct you to answer the question. Witness. It is
very pertinent.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I refuse to answer on the basis of the fifth amend-
ment, and that portion of the amendment that says no person can be
compelled to testify against themselves.
Mr. D0YI.E. In other words. Witness, if you admitted that you had
registered with the United States Government according to the ques-
tion our distinguished counsel asked you, it would tend to incriminate
you. Is that your position ? In other words, your registration with
the United States Government — a public document would incriminate
you. Is that your position ? How ridiculous can a person be in claim-
ing that ?
Mr. Wangerin. Would you please read the question back?
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAG.\NDA IN U. S. 579
(Record read by the reporter.)
Mr. "Wangerin. I still refuse to answer the question on the basis
of the fifth amendment which says that no person can be compelled
to testify against himself.
Mr. Doyle. I can see, Witness, how it might incriminate you if you
hadn't obej'ed the law and registered. I can understand that. But
how it could incriminate you if you complied with the law I don't
understand. But you, of course, have a constitutional privilege to
plead if you plead it in good faith and you acted accordmg to your
counsel. Proceed.
Mr. Arexs. The Foreign Agents Registration Act provides, in
substance, that any person who is the agent of a foreign principal
and who disseminates Coimnunist propaganda in the United States
must register with the Department of Justice and must label, pur-
suant to the Foreign Agents Registration Act, the Communist propa-
go.nda W'hich he disseminates in the United States.
We lay before you, now, two publications which were purchased
from you at your store. The first is the Soviet Union (No. 1 (83)
1957) purchased by an investigator of this stajff the other day. The
other is Xew Times, identified as a Communist publication from
abroad (January 3, 1957).
Kindly look at those docmnents and tell this committee, while you
are nnder oath, first of all, whether or not you see in the documents
any label pursuant to the provisions of the Foreign Agents Registra-
tion Act ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Waxgerin. I refuse to answer this question on the basis of
the first and fifth amendments.
(Documents marked "Wangerin Exhibit No. 3" and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arexs. Do you carry those publications in your store as a
matter of regular business practice?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Arexs. By "those publications" I mean the Soviet Union and
the New Times.
Mr. Waxgerix. Same answer.
Mr. Arexs. We lay before you a photostatic reproduction of one
of 3^our advertisements of the Modern Book Store in w^hich you had
a sale, 10- to 80-percent discount on all books. I observe here, among
the books on which you have the discount and which you apparently
are pushing for sale, are reports from the Soviet Union by Malenkov,
Molotov, Bulganin, Mikoyan, all reduced to 10 cents apiece. Then I
observe here about a dozen or so specialties from the Soviet Union,
Materialism and the Dialectical Method, Ten Classics of Marxism,
Mao Tse-tung Selected Works, and Selected Works of Marx and
Engels, and the like.
Kindly look at this document, w'hich will be displayed to you, and
tell us, first of all, whether or not that is a true and correct reproduc-
tion of the advertisement of your store, or the leaflet issued by your
store for prospective customers?
Mr. Doyle. Among the foreign-born and foreign-ancestered peo-
ple, foreign people primarily.
580 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Steinberg. There are all kinds of books, if the court please,
American books
Mr. DoTLE. I recognize that.
Mr. Arens. Counsel, do you want to testify ? I suggest you submit
yourself to oath and we will interrogate you.
While you are examining that, may I invite your attention to other
pages of the book list, from your store, of periodicals, such as Chinese
Literature, China Reconstructs, China Pictorial, People's China ; also
listed as Soviet Union periodicals, some of which I cannot pronounce
such as Soviet Literature, cultural items, and then the old-line Com-
munist publications : Political Affairs, Mainstream, and the like.
Kindly look at these pages, while your counsel is examining the
first pages, and see if you will be good enough to help this Committee
on Un-American Activities in its work by verifying the authenticity
of those price lists.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer this question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendments, and that this has nothing to do with the
purpose of this hearing.
(Document marlced "Wangerin Exhibit No. 4," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Arens. Is your bookstore a corporation or an operation by a
private entrepreneur, registered under the Foreign Agents Registra-
tion Act ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer this question on the basis of
the first and fifth amendment, and further that has nothing to do
with the purposes of this meeting.
Mr. Arens. Can you tell us what a stool pigeon is ? Do you know
what that term means ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I refuse to answer that question based on the first
and fifth amendment and on the further grounds that any answer,
any opinion as to this question that I might express may be used by
this committee against me.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Wangerin, I want to call to your attention excerpts
from a photostatic copy of a letter from a stool pigeon by the name of
Earl Browder, who was then general secretary of the Communist
Party. Back in 1939 he addressed a letter to the Committee on Un-
American Activities, and the committee was in its initial stages of
exploration and investigations at that time. He says in this letter,
which I am going to display to you in a moment, that he acknowledges
receipt of the subpena that was served upon him and he is enclosing
a list, full names of the members of the National Committee of the
Communist Party and the candidates of the National Committee of
the Communist Party as of that date ; and curiously enough under the
National Committee of the Communist Party USA, elected at the
10th convention, we see here listed the name of Otto Wangerin,
W-a-n-g-e-r-i-n.
Was Earl Browder misrepresenting to the Committee on Un-
American Activities back in 1939 when he asserted in that letter that
you were one of the top officials — one of the members of the National
InVes^tigatiox of communist propaganda in u. s. 581
Committee of this conspiratorial apparatus known as the Communist
Party?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Waxgerin. I decline to answer the question on the oasis of
the first and fifth amendment.
(Document marked "Wangerin Exhibit No. 5" and retained m
committee files.)
Mr. Arexs. I Avould like to read you some testimony. In June of
1956 this committee held hearings in St. Louis, Mo. At that time a
man testified by the name of Thomas A. Younglove, Y-o-u-n-g-l-o-v-e.
He stated that lie had been a member of the Communist Party, and
he continued in his testimony, under oath, as follows :
And the national officer of the railroad workers of the Communist Party stated,
before a select group at State headquarters — and this man's name was Otto W.
Wangerin. He was from Chicago. I can spell it, but I don't know if it would
be correct.
Question :
Do you know what position he held in the Communist Party ?
Answer, by Mr. Younglove. under oath :
He was introduced by a man by the name of Herman Webb as being a national
organizer for the Communist Party within the railroad workers. He also
referred to that position in the course of his talk.
While you are under oath, tell tliis committee was Mr. Younglove
lying or was he telling the truth when he testified under oath before
this committee and identified you as a national organizer of this con-
spiratorial apparatus known as the Communist Party ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. Could I see that document, please?
Mr. Arens. Yes. I heard your counsel tell you to ask for it.
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer that question on the basis of
the first and fifth amendment.
]Mr. Arens. Perhaps you can help us with another document. It is
a photograph of yourself in a parade. May 1, 1948, carrying a banner
and this banner is entitled "Communist Party of Illinois," and there
you are helping to carry a banner in the parade.
Look at the photograph please, and tell us if it is going to incrimi-
nate you to identify your own picture?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Doyle. What year was that, Mr. Arens?
Mr. Arens. May 1, 1948.
He is carrying a banner entitled "Communist Party of Illinois."
Mr. DoTiiE. Here in Chicago ?
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir.
That was 2 years before the passage of the Internal Security Act,
Mr. Chairman.
Mr. Wangerin. I refuse to answer the question on the same basis.
582 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 583
Mr. Arens. Now, we would like to display to you, if j^ou please, sir,
a photostatic reproduction of the letter on the Civil Rights Congress
of Illinois letterhead, under your signature as administrative secre-
tary. The Civil Rights Congress is masquerading behind Abraham
Lincoln, calling upon all our fellows who love liberty to advocate the
repeal of the Walter-McCarran Act, and, advocating the repeal of the
thought-control Smith Act, pursuant to which the Communist trait-
ors were put in jail, and the like.
Kindly look at this document, signed Otto Wangerin, administra-
tive secretary on the letterhead of the Civil Rights Congress of Illi-
nois, dated February 28, 1953, and see if you will be good enough to
help this Committee on Un-American Activities in its work by verify-
ing the authenticity of your signature appearing there.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer the question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendment.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Wangerin, although I feel you have been a little
less than frank with the committee, I want to be absolutely f I'ank with
you. We are going to lay before you a pay voucher, pursuant to
which when you sign it you will receive your witness fee. I want to be
frank with you and say the reason I want to have you sign it, while
you are under oath, is that I want to compare the signature you af-
fixed to this Civil Riglits Congress letter and the signature which I
hope you will afix to the voucher we now lay before you.
Would you kindly affix your signature to that voucher now?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I will sign it after I have finished testifying.
Mr, Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that if, as and
when Mr. Wangerin affixes his signature to a pay voucher to receive
his witness fee that that part of the pay voucher be incorporated in
the body of the record so it may be compared with the signature ap-
pearing on the letter of the Civil Rights Congress of Illinois with
Mr. Wangerin identified as administrative secretary of that organi-
zation.
Mr. Doyle. So ordered.
584
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
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mVESTIGATIOX OF COIMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. 3.
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90844 — 57— pt. 7-
586 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Wangerin, in addition to your operation of the
bookstore and your candidacy and your status in the Communist
Party, you have also been a professor or instructor, have you not?
Coukl you help us on that ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer on the same grounds, that it
has nothing to do with this hearing.
Mr. Arens. We have a thermofax reproduction of a bulletin
(spring term April 8 to June 22, 1940) of the Workers School, 431
South Dearborn Street, Chicago, in which they announce the spring
term. On the inside appears this Workers School schedule of classes.
We see a course on trade unionism, theory and practice, and the in-
structor as listed here is Otto Wangerin.
Kindly look at that document and see if you will be cooperative
enough with this committee to verify its authenticity.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer on the grounds that this has
nothing to do with the purpose of this hearing.
(Document marked "Wangerin Exhibit No. 9," and retained in
committee files.)
Mr. Scherer. He declined to answer on the grounds that this ques-
tion had nothing to do with this hearing.
I ask that you direct the witness to answer the question.
Mr. DoTLE. I direct the witness to answer this question.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer on the grounds of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Scherer. That is better.
Mr. Arens. Do you know a person by the name of John A. Rossen,
E-o-s-s-e-n?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. That is the question ?
Mr. Arens. Yes.
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and
fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. He is scheduled to be the next witness. I thought per-
haps you might help us a little and give us information about him.
Do you honestly feel if you told us the truth of the knowledge you
have respecting John A. Rossen you might be supplying information
that could be used against you in a criminal proceeding?
Mr. Wangerin. Same answer.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that will con-
clude the staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. Scherer. Where were you born, Mr. Witness ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer on the same grounds, the first
and fifth.
Mr. DoYEE. I instruct you to answer, Witness. That is a basic ques-
tion of identification arid certainly the United States Congress is
entitled to know where the people it protects are born.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. St. Paul, Minn.
Mr. Scherer. How long have you lived in Chicago ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 587
Mr. Wangerin". I decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendment.
Mr. ScHERER. I ask that you direct the ^Yitness to answer the
question.
Mr. DoTLE. You are directed to answer the question, Witness.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer on the basis of the fifth amend-
ment, that portion which says no person is compelled to be a witness
against himself or to incriminate himself.
Mr. ScHERER. Do you honestly believe. Witness, if you told us how
long you lived in Chicago tliat such an answer might tend to incrim-
inate you ? Do you honestly believe that ?
Mr. Wangerin. Same answer.
Mr. Doyle. I alwaj'S thought Chicago was a city of law-abiding
citizens. I didn't know it was a place you would be ashamed to admit
that you lived in.
Mr. ScHERER. I ask that you direct the witness to answer my ques-
tion as to whether or not be honestly believes that to answer that ques-
tion might tend to incriminate him.
Mr. DoTLE. I direct the witness to answer the question.
Mr. Wangerin. Yes, I do.
Mr. Arens. I respectfully suggest that in the presence of this wit-
ness another witness be sworn.
Will you kindly stand and be sworn Mr. Jones ?
Mr. DoYLE. Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole
truth, and nothing but the truth, so help you God ?
Mr. Jones. I do.
Mr. Steinberg. May I ask for the privilege to cross-examine this
witness?
Mr. Arens. You know you are asking for something that is in vio-
] ation of the rules.
Mr. Steinberg. May I have a ruling from the Chair ?
Mr. Scherer. You have violated the rules consistently for 2 days.
If you continue to do that once more, as much as I dislike to, I am
going to move that you be ejected from the courtroom. You know you
can't cross-examine this witness.
Mr. Doyee. Counsel doesn't need to make a showing.
Mr. Scherer. You have done that consistently for 2 days now.
TESTIMONY OE W. JACKSON JONES
Mr. Arens. Are you W. Jackson Jones, an investigator of the Com-
mittee on Un-American Activities ?
Mr. Jones. I am.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Jones, I lay before you two publications. The
first is Soviet Union, No. 1 (83) 1957. 'The second is New Times,
January 3, 1957.
I ask you if you purchased those in the course of the last several days
here in Chicago ?
Mr. Jont:s. They were purchased.
Mr. Arens. And from whom did you purchase them, and where ?
Mr. Jones. They were purchased from Mr. Wangerin at the Modern
Book Store, 64 West Randolph Street.
588 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Arens. Is Mr. Wangerin the gentleman who is seated in the
principal witness chair ?
Mr. Jones. He is one and the same.
Mr. Arens. Do you recall, Mr. Jones, approximately when you made
that purchase, what day, how long ago ?
Mr. Jones. It was on Friday of last week.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Wangerin, you heard the testimony of Mr. Jones.
Do you recall the incident to whicli he just alluded in his testimony,
to wit, that he purchased these two publications in your establishment ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. I decline to answer the question on the basis of the
first and fifth amendment and that the question has nothing to do with
the hearing.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Jones, j^ou know, of course, that under the Foreign
Agents Registration Act, the agent of a foreign principal who dis-
seminates Communist propaganda in the United States is obliged to do
two things: First, to register with the Department of Justice under
the Foreign Agents Registration Act and, secondly, to label the Com-
munist propaganda so that the recipient will know that he is getting
Communist literature.
Did you after an examination see anywhere on either of those doc-
uments you purchased at the Modern Book Store from Mr. Wan-
gerin, the label that is required bv the Foreign Agents Registration
Act?
Mr. Jones. These documents do not bear the label.
Mr. Arens. Thank you, Mr. Jones.
Mr. Chairman, I respectful!}' suggest that will conclude the staff
interrogation of this witness.
Mr. Scherer. No questions.
Mr. DoTLE. Mr. Arens, doesn't tlie record clearly show that across
the country there are certain book stores, which are substantially
known to the people Avho buy certain literature, as Communist Party
depositories for Communist Party literature and pamphlets, and so
forth?
Mr. Arens. That is correct ; yes, sir.
Mr. DoYLE. And they also are known to us to sell the same type of
literature by titles and authors that is shown in the testimony today
that this man sells here in Chicago.
Mr. Arexs. And our concern at that point, Mr. Chairman, is not
their selling of the literature, but it is tlieir overt flouting of the
Foreign Agents Registration Act.
Mr. Doyle. Of course, 3^ou are going to look into it to see whether
or not this man has comj^lied with the law, I take it?
Mr. Arens. It is clear he has not complied with the law.
Mr. Doyle. Well, I would like to know. I would like to iiave a
report on it. Because I used to be a book salesman, myself, I am
interested to know.
As I take it this witness was a member of the National Comini|:t.ee of
the Communist Party in this country in 1939. Is that correct ?
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir.
Mr. Doyle. According to the signature of Earl Browder?
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir ; who was then general secretaiy.
Mr. Doyle. And who was then the national head of the Coniniunist
Party of tlie United States?
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 589
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir.
Mr. Doyle. I take it tliut ^Ir. Browder was not misrepresenting.
Mr. Arens. Well, if he was misrepresenting:, the witness was given
an opportunity to straighten him out.
Mr. Doyle. The thing that I can't help but notice, Witness, is this
sheet here which was distributed from a Communist Party office in
Chicago, according to the address, lists you as one of the subpenaed.
You claimed your privilege, but there has been introduced, in the
record here, a document showing that you were an instructor in trade
miionism, apparently while you were a member of the National Com-
mittee of the Communist Party.
In my book it is another case involving you as a Communist leader
in this country trying to influence and dominate the trade-union move-
ment in this country.
And that is what Conmiunists always try to do. They try to use
organized labor for their filthy purpose, and they always place the
Communist Party philosophy ahead of free American trade unionism.
I have never known it to fail.
I came from a family of working people. It makes me shiver when
I see the extent to which Communist functionaries try to abuse and
use the American trade-union movement for their own filthy purpose,
to take control of xYmerican labor for the sake of communism, and that
is what you do.
I want to ask this question, Mr. Wangerin. Do you get these pam-
phlets about China and the Soviet program in China directly from
China, or do you buy them from some place in this comitry to resell ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Wangerin. Mr. Chairman, I decline to answer that question on
the basis of the first and fifth amendments and that your question has
nothing to do with the purpose of this hearing.
Mr. Doyle. Of course, it has everything to do with this. We are
permitted under tlie law and my pronouncement was that we would
go into the Comnuu^iist conspiracy wherever it exists in the field of
newspapers or conununications, and a bookstore is pretty near next
door to a newspaper.
I will ask you this question : Do you get your pamphlets on Marx-
ism and other periodicals lauding the Soviet system from Russia as
some bookstores do that I have learned about, or do you get them
from some wholesale distributor in this country ?
How in the world could that tend to incriminate you, to tell us how
you trade legally ?
Mr. Wangerin. Same answer.
Mr. Doyle. I think that is all from this witness.
Mr. Arens. The next witness, if you please, Mr. Chairman, will be
John Rossen, R-o-s-s-e-n.
Mr. Doyle. Will you please raise your right hand ?
Do you solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and
nothing but the truth, so help you God ?
Mr. RossEN. Yes, sir.
Mr. DoYLE. Counsel, Mr. Scherer, yesterday the identified Com-
munists who were before us, as I recall it, all claimed that we were
interfering with the freedom of the press, interfering with freedom.
I have here this morning, and I am going to mention the paper,
590
INVESTIGATION OF COIVIMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
the New York Times, March 27, New York. And on the front page
in a square is a picture of an envelope, airmail, New York, It was
mailed from New York, February 18, to someone in Budapest, Hun-
gary, with American postage on it, and the postage is canceled, the
name of the sender is canceled. And this says, photocopy of an en-
velope sent back here from Hungary because of postmark over the
stamp. And the postmark over the stamp, you may be interested to
know, was the postmark which is used now I believe over all United
States postage, or most of it, is three words "Crusade for Freedom."
Those are the three words. And the Communist postoffice in Hungary
returned three of these to the New York postoffice according to this
article in the New York Times this morning, refusing delivery to
citizens of Budapest, Hungary, because it had "Crusade for Freedom"
over the stamp.
Is that what you call freedom of the press? That is the kind of
freedom that these Communists yesterday would want to impose on
the American press. They would want a controlled press and control
it for their filthy Communist Party philosophy and purposes.
Here is a good illustration of the unwillingness of a Communist-
controlled country, Hungary, to let three words go in on the top of an
envelope "Crusade for Freedom."
I would like, Mr. Arens, to have this included in the record of
these hearings.
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir.
(Photostat of airmail envelope and New York Times article
follow.)
Hungary Bars U. S. Letters With *Crusade' Postmark
I
I
AIR LETTER
AEROGRAMME
V!A AIR MAIL
PAR AVION
Ret«ur. Non admt*.
T1i« t««l o« lh« potunarfc ii contrirr to
8M:ltan t. Arikl* 1. ol Chaptsr I, ol lb«
Unlvanel I'onwl tonvtmlon lher«Ior«
lb* Hungarian I'oul OH'.ta h»» i»tur««d
Iba Ivtier lo II* *»ndrr.
I
^
Tm New York Tmn
Photo copy of an envelope sent back here from Hunj^ary beraunf of pontnurk over th« ntamp
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
591
[The New York Times, March 27, 1957]
By John W. Finney
Hungary is returning letters from this
country in protest against an ofiicial United
States postmark urging support of the Cru-
sade for Freedom. Three returned letters
were received by the post office here yester-
day. The Post Office Department is expect-
ing a flood of undelivered letters from Com-
munist Hungary. The postmark to which
Hungary objects reads : "Support Your Cru-
sade for Freedom." Hungarian officials
contend that the postmark is intended to
incite further revolts by "counterrevolution-
aries" and that it does not promote "interna-
tional cooperation" in mail service. The
cancellation mark has been used periodically
by the post office for the last 4 years. This
is the first time, however, that the Hun-
garian Government has objected to it.
Crusade for Freedom is a private organi-
zation that supports Radio Free Europe, and
Free Europe Press. The organization has
been denounced by the Soviet Union, which
asserts that it was established to finance
and direct subversive activity within Com-
munist countries.
Postmaster Robert H. Schaffer said the
Hungarian Post Office's action came to light
yesterday when officials at the Morgan
station, which handles foreign mail, called
him to ask why the mail was being returned.
STICKER EXPLAINS REASON
The official Hungarian reason was
on a sticker placed on the envelope,
sticker read in English :
;iven
The
''The text of the postmark is contrary to
Section 2, Article 1 of Chapter 1 of the Uni-
versal Postal Convention. Therefore, the
Hungarian Post Office has returned the letter
to its sender."
Section 2 says the purpose of the Postal
Union is "to assure the organization and
improvement of the various postal services
and to promote in that sphere the develop-
ment of international cooperation."
Mr. Schaeffer denied that the postmark
violated the postal convention. He said the
cancellation had been used in January of
1954 and 1955 and in the first 3 mouths of
1956 and 1957. The postmark has been used
by the post offices here and in Philadelphia,
Chicago, and Los Angeles.
The New York Post Office sends about
1.750 letters a day to Hungary by air and
ship.
On March 8 Hungary delivered diplomatic
notes to the American and British Legations
in Budapest protesting the cancellation
marks on letters reaching Hungary from the
United States and Canada.
A Canadian postmark to which Hungary
objected read : "Why wait for spring? Do it
now." Hungary contended the postmark
showed that the Canadian Government would
"welcome new counterrevolutionary activity
and bloodshed in Hungary." The Canadian
Government explained, however, that the
postmark was merely a call to Canadians to
fix up their homes, and had nothing to do
with Hungary.
Mr. DoYLE. Proceed.
TESTIMONY OF JOHIT (A.) ROSSEN, ACCOMPANIED BY COUNSEL,
IRVING G. STEINBERG
Mr. Arens. Kindly identify yourself by name, residence, and
occupation,
Mr. KossEN. My name is John Eossen, I live at 5715 Blackstone,
Chicago.
Mr. Arens. Do you care to complete your answer ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel. )
Mr. RossEN. In veplj to that, I would like to say to the distin-
guished counsel of the committee that he can go straight to — the Con-
stitution and he will see that this third part of the question is an
invasion of my rights under the first and fifth amendments to the
Constitution.
Mr. Arens. Are you now a member of an organization dedicated to
the overthrow of the Constitution of the United States by force and
violence ?
Mr. RossEN. Again, I will say to the distinguished counsel that
he can go straight to- — the Constitution
Mr. Arens. I suggest that the witness be ordered and directed to
answer that question.
Mr. Doyle. Just a minute.
I want the record to show and you to know, that we realize that
you are intending by the inflection of your voice and the hesitancy
of your language to tell this counsel to go someplace other than
straight to the Constitution. If you do it again, we are going to put
you in contempt. You are not as smart as you think you are.
592 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Arens. Mr, Chairman, I respectfully suggest the witness be
ordered and directed to answer the last question which is outstanding
on this record.
Mr. Doyle. You may be a theater manager, but you don't make
a show out of this. You will get that clear.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, may I respectfully request that the
question outstanding has not been answered and there is a request that
the witness be ordered and directed to answer the question.
Mr. DoYT.E. I order and direct you to answer the question.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEN. I refuse to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments to the Constitution.
Mr. Arens. You are appearing today in response to a subpena that
was served upon you by the House Committee on Un-American
Activities ?
Mr. RossEX. Yes.
Mr. Arens. Are you represented by counsel ?
Mr. RossEN. I am.
Mr. Arens. Covmsel, will you kindly identify yourself ?
Mr. Steinberg. Irving G. Steinberg, 180 West Washington.
Mr. Arens. JSIr. Rossen, do you know the gentleman who preceded
you on the witness stand, Mr. Otto Wangerin ?
Mr. Rossen. I refuse to answer on the grounds the question is a
violation of my rights under the first and fifth amendments.
Mr. Arens. Do you honestly feel that if you told this committee
truthfully, while you are under oath, whether or not you know Mr.
Otto Wangerin, you would be supplying information which might
be used against you in a criminal proceeding ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Rossen. I decline to answer on the grounds that the question
violates — is an invasion of my riglits under the first and fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that the witness
be ordered and directed to answer the question.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you, Witness, to answer the question.
Mr. Scherer. Even Mr. Beck knew yesterday he had to answer
that question "Yes" when lie was asked if he honestly felt that
question
Mr. Rossen. Do you mind reading the question back again ?
Mr. Arens. The last outstanding question is this : Do you honestly
apprehend, sir, if you told tliis committee truthfully, while you are
under oath, whether or not j^ou know Otto Wangerin, you would
be supplying information which might be used against you in a crim-
inal proceeding? And you have a direction from the chairman to
answer the question.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Rossen. I repeat my refusal to answer under the grounds that I
can't be compelled to testify against myself on the fifth amendment.
Mr. Arens. We have a thermofax reproduction of the testimony
given before this committee on June 5, 1956, by Thomas A. Younglove,
in which Mr. Younglove, while lie was under oath, before this com-
mittee in our hearings in St. Louis, Mo., identified you as a person
INVESTIGATION OF CO]MMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 593
known to him to be a member of the Commmiist Party. Was Mr.
Yoimglove lyino; or was he telling the truth ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEN. May I see the document ?
Mr. Arens. Surely. Perhaps that would help refresh your recol-
lection.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. KossEN. In view of the fact that T never had the chance to
cross-examine or question this Mr. Younglove, I refuse to answer the
question on the basis of the first and fifth amendments to the Con-
stitution.
Mr. ScHERER. Whether you had the chance or not, you have now
the opportunity to tell this committee whether Mr. Younglove was
lying or telling the truth to the committee.
" Mr. Doyle. And if you are telling the truth, instead of Mr. Young-
love, he would be a perjurer. We will find out which one is perjuring
himself. So you have your chance now to put Mr. Younglove in a
classification of a perjurer if he wasn't telling the truth.
Mr. RossEX. Well, sir, the best witness against Mr. Younglove
would be himself, and I would just love the opportunity to cross-
examine.
Mr. ScHERER. I ask that you direct the witness to answer the
question.
Mr. Doyle. You are directed to answer the question, Witness.
Mr. RossEN. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
Mr. Arens. Unfortunately, we do not have with us today Jeremy
Selden for you to cross-examine him. Maybe he is in the same situa-
tion as Mr. Younglove. I would like to invite your attention to a
photostatic copy of an article by Jeremy, J-e-r-e-m-y Selden in the
Communist Daily Worker of October 3, 1948. Your photograph is
also there. The title of this article is "Workingmen's Answer to
Winchell," and the subheading reads as follows :
Communist Party Organizer Johnny Rossen conducts a radio program and
a newsletter that have eastern Missouri and southern Illinois talking. How
Johnny combines gags and politics to fight reaction's lies.
I would like to read a few little excerpts from this, and, as I say,
I am very sorry we do not have Selden here so you could cross-examine
him. I am sure if a man called me a Communist I would certainly
deny it under oath. I thought perhaps you would.
"Johnny" has become an institution in eastern Missouri and southern Illinois.
"Johnny," you see, happens to be Johnny Rossen, field organizer for the Com-
munist Party in southern Illinois, and his racy, hard-hitting, popular-style, 15-
minute weekly radio "Newsletter of the Air," has brought a remarkable response
from radio listeners.
I wdll skip several paragraphs, and we read this under your photo-
graph :
Johnny, who is a veteran of the Lincoln Brigade, and of World War II, is
especially proud of the fact that a number of his listeners, who had never before
had contact with the labor or progressive movement, are now active workers
in the progressive party. But, most of all, he is proud of his radio listeners
who have been recruited into the Communist Party.
Now, while you are under oath, in view of that very serious indict-
ment of you as part of a traitorist conspiracy, would you care to deny
594 INVESTIGATION OF COIMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
it and denounce the author of that article as a perjurer and as a
defamer of vour character, or was he, on the other hand, telling the
truth '^
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
(Document marked "Eossen exhibit No. 1" and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. Doyle. This might be a case, Mr. Arens, but it is not too possi-
ble, where Mr. Eossen wants to claim this author is a perjurer and
not telling the truth. It might be possible that we could arrange a
meeting, where Mr. Eossen could come back sometime in the next
few months and have this author present so he could face him.
Mr. Arens. I would suggest at least as a preliminary matter he
could, while he is under oath, stand up like a red-blooded American
and deny he has ever been a member of this conspiracy. That might
be a start.
Mr. Doyle. That is right. Let us find out who is perjuring himself.
Mr. Eossen. In reply to this question, I would say that the question
very obviously is an interference and an attempt to interfere with
the freedom of the radio as well as freedom of speech and the press,
and, therefore, I decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments to the Constitution.
Mr. Doyle. May I just say that the thing we are trying to do is to
find out the extent to which identified Communists are using the radio
as a means to perpetuate or promulgate the Communist conspiracy.
You have been identified to us as a Communist. Therefore, we are
interested to know the extent to which you use the radio for that pur-
pose. We think it is legitimate and very important to know whether
or not you do.
Mr. Arens. We have two documents to display to you, please, Mr.
Eossen. The first is a letterhead of the Chicago Council of American-
Soviet Friendship, elated March 19, 1952, on which your name appears
as executive director.
(Document marked "Eossen Exhibit No. 2," and retained in com-
mittee files.
The second is a photostatic reproduction of a check, drawn on the
Amalgamated Trust & Savings Bank, which you signed as executive
director of the Chicago Council of American- Soviet Friendship, Inc.
The check is for $20, payable to the Fine Arts Building, and is dated
March 5, 1954.
Kindly look at those two documents and see if you will be good
enough to verify their authenticity for us ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Arens. "Wliile you are examining that document, or while your
counsel is, may I make this further request, Mr. Eossen: Mr. Jones
of our staff is going to lay before you a pay voucher, which, when you
sign it, makes available to you the pay due you as a witness before this
committee.
I am going to ask yon if you will kindly sign that document now,
while you are under oath, so we may compare that signature on the
check and on another document that is to follow. Would vou be good
IN^'ESTIGATION OF COIVIMUNIST PROPAGANDA EST U. S. 595
enough to accommodate the committee to that extent, please, Mr. Ros-
sen?
Mr. RossEN. I will sign the pay voucher later.
^Ir. Aeens. Mr. Chairman, I respectfully suggest that if, as and
when Mr. Rossen affixes his signature to the voucher that part of the
voucher bearing his signature be incorporated in the body of the record
so there may be a comparison of his signatures on other documents.
Mr. Doyle. So ordered.
Mr. RossEN. With reference to these alleged documents. I refuse
to answer the question on the basis that these documents have nothing
to do with this hearing or with the powers of the committee, and on
the further grounds that the request to answer the question is an inva-
sion of my rights under the first and fif tli amendments.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Rossen, we want to lay before you a photostatic
rejDroduction of an application for public place of amusement license —
which you signed as president of the L. M. S. Amusement Company,
Inc., dated December 28, 1956. The building or ground to be oper-
ated by this L. M. S. Amusement Co., according to the application,
is known as a Cinema Annex, a movie company, located at 3210
Madison Avenue here in Chicago.
596 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
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INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 597
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598 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Kindly look at that document, as Mr. Jones displays it to you, and
tell this committee, while you are under oath, if you will accommodate
us by verifying the authenticity of your signature and the contents
of that document ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
^^^Il< Pom CZ 221 lOM Il-U (COS)
CITY OF CHICAGO
OFFICE OF THE CITY COLLECTOR
107 aXY HALL
Application for Public Place of Amusement License
Date ^"^/^^ iqS"^
ro THE CITY COLLECTOR, CITY OF CHICAGO : ''^
, 1,V» J?f.""'''"Kf^-*'', """"V *"■ '"'" °^ '^^ property hereinafter described hereby makes application for
a 1 cense for a publicplace of amusement under the provisions of Chapter 104.1 of the Munidpal Code of
Chicago, making a part of said application the follou mg presentations ^
Applicant's name ^■■-■-■^ ■■■^^■'■'^■^■^ , C^-<L
(I( as LD<Jivj4uaI, giTe nunc in full; if « coTvoraticai, lo itatc) *
If applicant is a cojrooration, give full names and residence addresses of the principal officers:
President....w/..-../j...P..^.?..«-.;^ -i2..<.!T!..J^.bf^:::f^rf:r^ 5.''>:Vrr^
I y^ (Residence addretf)
Secretary.
, (Residence addreaa)
Treasurer "
(Residence address)
Location for which license is sought .V...1?'/ .'^.. .^??^?r-*-'*^-''-<' c'^v^^/
(Street and
Applicant intends starting operating at this location on ^rr.V^!r*iC5<<r<r-.
Building, ground or enclosure is known as .(r^-rrf!::.^**^:^ Ci,.<ff<„<M,Ar:rtL
Kind of amusement(s) to be conducted .^I^^^Vr^f.DOr^
195..
If Class 1, give: (a) Maximum seating capacity ^!?r^...^' /S-<V .'-.^5-*^ /^^
(b) Maximum additional fJoor and field area (except seat space) /..*). ..'P<^...sq. ft.
Period for which license is sought:
Annual period ending December 31. 19 i
Other than annual: ^a... months days. From J..... 19."^.^ To
Description of property used or intended for use as a public place of amusement
k./n. 19^7
I.s applicant the owner of said property? \li).. Is applicant the Ie»»«e of said property?
GUARANTY
For and in consideration of the issuance of the license applied for the appHcant(s) jointly and
severally, hereby guarantee(s) to the City of Oiicago the payment of the taxes imposed up<in any and alt
amusements at the licensed premises, during the period for which license is sought in the manner and at
the times provided in Chapter 104 (Amusements) of the Municipal Code of Chicago.
(If a corpormtion, sign here!
' (Corpont« Hum)
Bv
l_ . (V'l-^a^,
Attest Vr..:....>.^irT!Tr.j
(Individual or partnerahjp sign here)
(Seal)
- (Seat>
(Residence address if applicant is an individual)
RossEN Exhibit No. 5
mVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 599
Mr. RossEN. I consider this question an effort of the committee to
invade another field which is protected to the public by the first amend-
ment ; namely, the field of the showing of movies, and I don't think it
is within the province of this committee to make any laws or recom-
mendations concerning laws concerning- the censorship of films or the
showing of films. I, therefore, decline to answer the question on the
grounds that it violates the first and the fifth amendments to the Con-
stitution.
Mr. Doyle. In other words, you do not think that Congress has the
right or a duty to investigate and report to the American people the
extent to which identified Communists, like you, propose to use the
films as a deliberate means of communication of the Communist
ideology to the American people ; is that correct?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. DoYivE. Congress has fomid and the courts have found the
Communist Party to be a foreign ideological conspiracy, and yet you
do not think we have the right to inform the American people, of the
extent to which the Communist Party of this country, through you and
othei*s identified as Communist leaders, are undertaking to control
the press, the radio, the television, or anything else, in order to mis-
lead and misinform the American people ?
Mr. RossEN. My answer to that, sir
Mr. DoTLE. Go ahead and answer it.
Mr. RossEN. Is that who is to determine which of these movies is
Communist or good or bad. Some people think things are Commvi-
nist because they don't like them. And that seems to be the case with
this committee. Practically anything they don't like is Communist,
Communist influenced, or Communist inspired. The Constitution
very clearly defends the right of the people to freedom of speech, and
that includes freedom of movies, too.
Mr. DoYLE. That is right.
Mr. RossEN. And I think the Congressmen should keep that in
mind.
^fr. ScHERER. Mr. Doyle wasn't talking about the movie itself; he
was talking about individuals like yourself who are engaged in the
activities in which you are engaged.
Mr. Doyle. That is right.
Mr. ScHERER. We are not investigating the press, as such, movies,
as such, but we are investigating individuals who exert their inflvience
in those various fields, and we feel that the American people and the
Congress have a right to know.
You have a right to show all those movies, you have a right to print
anything you want, but we think the American people have a right
to know when Communists are giving them that type of propaganda.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEX. Some people, sir — may I answer you, sir? Some peo-
ple call others Communists because they are against segregation.
There is a man in Chicago who was called a Communist because in
Louisville, Ky., he rented his home or sold liis home to a Negro. Are
you going to call him a Communist for that ? Apparently you do.
Some people do. Who is to determine who is a Communist?
Mr. Doyle. We can detei-mine you are one. The record shows it,,
and you don't deny it. And you are a Communist functionary.
600 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
I hesitate as an American citizen with children to think that you
are going to get an avenue to further spill the Communist philosophy
into the minds and eyes of young people every chance you get, just like
you are now doing in this witness chair.
Mr. Arens. Now, I would like to ask you, first of all, are you reg-
istered, or is the Cinema Annex registered under the Foreign Agents
Registration Act?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEN. I decline to answer under the first and fifth amend-
ments.
Mr. ScHERER. I ask you to direct the witness to answer.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you. Witness, to answer the question.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEN. I decline to answer on the basis of the fifth amend-
ment which gives me a right not to testify against myself.
Mr. Arens. I have here several postcards from the Cinema Annex
advertising, soliciting customers to come see some of the movies. The
first one is a postcard advertising the movie on June 24, "3 brandnew
documentaries, SEE: How Russians Live; How They Work, Play;
\Vliat They Eat, Wear; In the Soviet Union." Then, an added
feature, ''Anton Chekhov's Powerful Drama, The Upheaval."
Mr. RossEN. May I correct the counsel ? "Chekhov" did you say ?
Mr. Arens. Can you help me on that ?
Mr. RossEN. I was wondering if I heard you correctly ?
Mr. Arens. You help me then, would you, please, sir?
Mr. RossEN. After the hearing perhaps I will be glad to.
Mr. Arens. After you are released from under oath —
Mr. Rossen. I will educate you.
Mr. Arens. free from pains and —
Mr. Rossen. Would you like to meet on an equal basis outside?
We are not on an equal basis here. Let's recognize that, sir.
Mr. Arens. While you are under oath, tell this committee if you
procured and had displayed at your theater, the Cinema Annex, the
magnificent production. In the Soviet Union, plus Anton Chekhov's
powerful drama. The Upheaval and the popular Soviet novel, The
Zhurbin Family, all in magicolor.
Look at that card now and tell us, if you please, sir, first of all, if
I pronounced this man's name correctly and, secondly, if those are
films which you displayed and third, I am going to ask you if you
registered under the Foreign Agents Registration Act before you
displayed them?
(Document marked "Rossen Exhibit No. 6" and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. Scherer. May I make a little comment ?
Mr. Doyle. Sure.
Mr. ScHERER. This demonstrates what I was trying to say a few
minutes ago. Neither this committee nor the Congress, nor anyone,
can or wants to prevent him from showing these films. He has a
right after this hearing today to go and show this film or any other
similar film.
Mr. Doyle. That is right.
Mr. ScHERER. "\'\^at we think we have a right to do is show
to the American people, at least, the fact that this man who is show-
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 601
mn: these films is himself a Communist Parly fiinctionai y. the man
who invites the people to come see these movies. They should know
an(l have the ri<rht to know what to expect from an individual like
that. That is the purpose. We nmst keep our eye o-hied to that ])oint.
Mr. Arf.xs. Also. Mr. Scherer, if I may be permitted to comment,
it is the concern of the committee that those fihiLS and these propa-
<randa ])ublications of the Communist Party are not labeled in accord-
ance witli the i)rovisi<>ns of the Foreiszn A.£rents Ke^istration Act
in order tliat tlie recipient and viewer would know lie is seeintr Com-
munist poison.
Mr. ScHEKKR. One of tlie pui'])oses of these hearings is to recom-
mend loo;islation that would strengthen the act as regards these in-
dividuals who have been violating the act so they may be compelled
to comply with the Foreign Agents Registration Act.
?»Ir. I);)YLK. Thank yon, Mr. Scherer. I join in your remarks, of
course.
Mr. Akexs. AVould you be good enough to accommodate the coni-
ridttee by telling ns about that name if I pronounced it correctly, first
of all, and, secondly, if that is a true and correct reproduction of a
bulletin sent out from your theater?
Mr. KossEX. I will be glad to accommodate the distinguished coim-
sel. The name is '"Anton Chekhov."
Mr. Arexs. ITow do you know that^
Mr. RossEX. It is from my accjuaintance with some of the liter-
ary works. Of course, 1 don't expect counsel to be as acquainted with
it as I am. I do happen to know about him.
Mr. Scherer. You say the acquaintance witli that name is from
your acquaintance Avith what literary works?
Afr. RossEX. World literature.
Mr. S("iiERER. World literature^
Mr. RossEX'. That is right.
Mr. Scherer. Is that your only acquaintance with that name? Are
you telling us the truth? Isn't your ac(|uaintance with tliat name the
fact you showed that ])icture ?
Mr. RossEx. That is right. This man happened to be dead a long
time. I couldn't have much other acquaintance. I am not sure counsel
is aware of that. He has been dead about 50 yeai's.
Mr. Scherer. You say your acquaintance is through world litera-
ture. Your acquaintance is that you showed it at your movie: isn't
it ? You showed a movie with that name. You opened the door.
]Mr. RossEx. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
Mr. ScHf:RER. ]\Ii'. Chairman, I ask he be directed to answer the
question. He opened the door, and now he adds the fifth amendment
to that question. He wanted to lead this committee and the press to
believe that the only connection or the only knowledge he had of that
name was through his knowledge of world literature. Now, I submit
he may have had that knowledge, but that certainly isn't the only
knowledge he has of that name.
Mr. Doyle. I direct you to answer the question, W^itness.
Mr. RossEX'. May I respectfully call to your attention, sir, that
there is a question pending which hasn't been answered?
90S44— 57— pt. 7 9
602 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. ScHERER. I ask that you direct the witness to answer this ques-
tion of mine and any question that may be pending be withdrawn,
Mr. Chairman.
Mr. Doyle. Yes ; we withdraw the other question temporarily. You
answer this question. You opened the door. I think it is merely ele-
mentary law when you do that the other people can walk through that.
Mr. Rossen. I ask that both the questions be read.
Mr. ScHERER. I will repeat the question that I want answered. I
am prefacing it with this statement, that you said voluntarily that
your acquaintance with that name — I can't pronounce it — with that
name came through your knowledge of world literature. Now my
question to you : Isn't it a fact that you had additional knowledge of
that name from the fact that you have shown a movie bearing that
name in your movie house ? Isn't that a fact ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEN. May I ask that both the questions be read?
Mr. ScHERER. No.
Mr. DoTLE. Mr. Scherer repeated his question. You heard it. You
consulted with your counsel when you heard it.
Mr. RossEN. Could I ask that the last question be read ?
Mr. Scherer. No.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEN. I am sorry I can't answer it, because I don't know
what it is.
Mr. Scherer. I will repeat it once more. I think you are just
fencing. You volunteered the statement to this committee that your
knowledge of that name Chekhov, or whatever it is, resulted from your
knowledge of world literature. My question to j^ou is: Isn't it a fact
that you had knowledge of that name from some other source, namely,
by reason of the fact that you showed a movie in your theater involving
that name?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEN. I decline to answer that question on the basis that the
question is not within the province of the authority of this committee
to inquire into; that is, it is a violation of the first and fifth amend-
ments. If I answer the question it may be the basis for a link of evi-
dence tliat will tend to incriminate me.
Mr. Scherer. Mr. Chairman, I submit that since by opening the
door by his voluntary statement he waived any right that he might
have had to invoke the fifth amendment. Therefore, I ask you to
direct the witness to answer my question.
Mr. Doyle. I will not only "direct him, but agi*ee with you whole-
heartedly.
I direct you to answer that question, Witness. It is elementary law.
Mr. Scherer and I are both lawyers, as well as your own counsel. You
opened the door. Even if it is a little crack, it is big enough for the
adverse party to get into, and we are walking into it and directing you
to answer the question.
Mr. RossEN. I decline to answer the question on the basis of the fifth
amendment, which protects me against testifying against myself.
Mr. Scherer. All right. Counsel, you may proceed.
Mr. Arens. Mr. Rossen, we displayed to you just a moment ago
a postcard exhibit emanating from your theater, and I have several
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 603
more. I will group thein together here and then I will ask you if
you would be good enough to acconmiodate the committee by verifying
their authenticity.
First is March 31, 1955, A Festival of Polish Motion Pictures, at the
Cinema Annex Theater, 3210 West Madison, Chicago.
The next is They Sing, They Dance; The Earth Our Planet; and
The Last Stop, the'celebrated Polish tilm classic.
The next is a film advertised by the Cinema Annex, "Scoop, 1 week
only, beginning Friday, February 4 (1955), actual camera report of
the recent visit of a Britisli cultural delegation to Moscow, We Visit
Moscow." On the same program — you will have to help me on these
names, too — Chabukiani * * * Lepeshinskaya ; Ulanova, dance "Cin-
derella.'" Then there is the Latest Newsreel, U. S. S. R., and Children
in the U. S. S. R. ; also features the "First all-color feature from
Prague, Czechoslovakia. It was 2 years in the making."
The next document, "It is the sensational color documentary, A Visit
to India, a full length feature on the visit of B. & K. to India last
November." I assume "B. & K." means Bulganin and Khrushchev
to India, last November.
Please look at these advertisements, leaflets from your theater, the
Cinema Annex, and see if you will be good enough to verify their
authenticity for this committee.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
(Documents marked "Rossen Exhibits No. 7," and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. RossEN. I consider this question to be an effort to impose a
censorship on movies, which is similar to efforts in other
Mr. ScHERER. I told you you can go and show those tomorrow and
the Constitution of the United States
Mr. Rossen. And the movie industry has enough trouble with cen-
sorship right today, it so happens right here in the city of Chicago.
Therefore, I feel I am protecting not only my own interest but the
interest of the movie industry as a whole, and I refuse to answer the
question on the basis of the first and fifth amendments to the
Constitution.
Mr. ScHERER. I am sure the great movie industry in this country
does not solicit the help of a Communist functionary to protect its
interests.
Mr. Arens. I would like to lay before you a photostatic copy of
an article from the Communist Daily Worker of New York of Fri-
day, July 26, 1940, captioned "Jobless Picket State Capitol in Mis-
souri," demanding more relief. According to this article:
John Rossen. chairman of the Workers Alliance of St. Louis shouted : ''The
crisis of hungry babies will be on your conscience when you're campaigning
unless you stay in session and vote adequate relief."
The speaker —
of the Missouri Legislature —
first threatened to personally eject Rossen, but then assigned a sergeant-at-arms
to do it.
Look at that article in the Communist Daily Worker of Friday,
July 26, 1940, and tell us whether or not that is a true and accurate
account of the facts.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
604 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. Arens. Does that article refresh your recollection?
Mr. RossEN. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
(Document marked "Rossen Exhibit No. 8," and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. Arens. Mr. Rossen, I want to ask you a question now about a
matter that doesn't pertain even remotely to the press or journalism
or motion pictures or theater or anything of that kind. It is about
your aspirations for public service. It is an article appearing here
in the Communist Sunday Worker, New York, March 2, 1941, with
your photogi-aph, "Jack Rossen, Lincoln Brigade veteran and candi-
date for mayor."'
Do you recall your political aspirations as accounted there in the
Communist Sunday Worker?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Rossen. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
(Document marked "Rossen Exhibit No. 9," and retained in com-
mittee files.)
Mr. Arens. Mr. Rossen, we have already displayed to you exhibits
here identifying you as the executive director of the Chicago Council,
of American-Soviet Friendship. Now, I want to display to you an
advertisement appearing in a student publication of the University of
Chicago, January 6, 1956. It is a ])ublication called The Chicago
Maroon. In this publication of the University of Chicago we see this
advertisement from the organization in which you have been identified
as executive director. This advertisement is entitled "Indian
Students" and reads as follows :
Indian students: Just received from U. S. S. R. : Plioto album of Jawaliarlal
Nehru in the Soviet Union — text in Englisli and Russian. $2.00.
Album of paintings of India by Russian artists. .$3.o(>.
Full texts of speeches by Indian and Soviet Leaders during liulganin's tour
of India.
All students doing researcli on or interested in the Soviet Union ai-e invited
to use our expanded oflices and library. Open Monday thru Saturday, 9
a. m. to 5 p. m. Suite 403, 189 W. Madison.
And two phone numbers are given : "Chicago Council of American-
Soviet Friendship."
We would like to have you tell us while you are under oath about
these students, if any, from the Chicago T^nhersity, who were wooed
into this net of the Chicago Council of American-Soviet Friendship to
use the offices and the librai-y, and also whether or not, when you placed
that ad in the CMiicago Maroon, the I^niversity of Chicago student
paper, you made known to them you were a Communist agent.
Mr. Rossen. I would like to have the question read back to me,
please.
Mr. Arens. Read the question.
(Record read by the reporter.)
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Rossen. I consider the question too long and too complex, and
I would like to have it broken up.
Mr. Arens. We will break it up and be glad to acconnnodate you.
First of all, did you place the ad in the University of Chicago
student paper?
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 605
Mr. KosKN. 1 decline to answer on the basis that this is an attempt
to interfere with freedom of the press, and 1 decline to answer on the
basis of the first amendment and the fifth.
Mr. Arens. Can you help this conunittee and the Government wdio
are tryinjj to develop facts to protect this gi-eat Nation, by telling us
whether any of the students of the ('hica<»:o University did respond to
to tlie ad and did come to the libiary of the Chicago Council of Ameri-
can-Soviet Friendship ^
Mr. llossEN. I consider this an outra^ieous invasion of the rijrhts of
academic freedom, and 1 therefore decline to answer the (] nest ion, as
it is the rig:ht of the students to inquire into whatever nuitters they
want. Therefore, I decline to answer the question on the basis of
the first and hfth amendments.
Mr. Arens. Can you answer the third part of the question? Now
that we have broken it up, 1 thougiit you mioht respond. AVhen you
placed that ad in the University of Chicago paper did you make
known to the students tliere that you were a member of the cons])ira-
torial ai)i)aratus designed to destroy the Constitution of the Ignited
States — undermine this gieat Kepublic under whose flag you have
protection t
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEX. 1 decline to answer on the basis of the hrst and lifth
amendments.
(Document marked ''Kossen Exhibit Xo. 10'' and retained in com-
mittee files. )
Mr. Arens. Yix. Chaiinian, 1 res])ectfully suggest that will conchide
the staff interrogation of this witness.
Mr. Doyle. ]Mr. Scherer.
Mr. Scherer. Mr. Eossen, where were you born '.
(Witness conferred with his comisel.)
Mr. RossEx. I decline to answer on the basis of the lirst and Hfth
amendments.
Mr. Scherer. I ask that you direct the v.itness to answer il\e ques-
tion as to where he was born.
Mr. DoYEE. I instruct you to answer. It is basic, and you and yonr
counsel know it is. Xow, ])lease, answer.
Mr. Scherer. How can it possibly incriminate anyone to say where
he was born 't
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEN. I decline to answer on the ground tiiat it is not relevant
or material.
Mr. Scherer. Are you a citizen of the United States? That is rele-
vant to the hearing.
(Witness conferred with his counsel. )
Mr. RossEx. Yes. I was born in St. Louis, ^fo.
Mr. Scherer. Have you traveled abroad '.
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEN. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and Hfth
amendments.
Mr. Scherer. Have you ever been to Russia I
(Witness conferred with liis counsel.)
Mr. Rossex. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and Hfth
amendments.
606 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
Mr. ScHERER. Have you ever made application for a passport?
Mr. KossEN. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
Mr. ScHERER. Have you ever received any compensation directly or
indirectly from the Communist Party or the Russian Government?
Mr. RossEN. I decline to answer on the same grounds.
Mr. ScHERER. Have you ever had any contacts of any kind with
the Russian secret police operating in this country ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. RossEN. I decline to answer on the same grounds.
Mr. ScHERER. I think you are properly invoking the fifth amend-
ment w^hen you answer thusly to that question.
I have no f urtlier questions.
Mr. Doyle. Will you, Mr. Jones, pass this to the witness ?
Witness, this pamphlet circulated within tlie last several days here,
entitled "Your Right," circulated by the Chicago Committee To
Preserve American Freedoms, I believe — is that the name of it, Coun-
sel ? You have it in your hand.
Mr. Steinberc;. Committee To Preserve .Vmerican Freedoms, if tlie
committee please.
Mr. Doyle. Have you seen that before, Mr. Rossen ?
(Witness conferred with his counsel.)
Mr. Rossex. I decline to answer on the basis of the first and fifth
amendments.
Mr. Doyle. I notice- — and I call your attention to the last page
thereof — as long as you are familiar with it you won't have to work
hard to find what I refer to — the last page, item 3 :
Write our Congressman and urge abolition of the House Committee on Un-
American Activities. Ctiicago area Congressmen are :
I call vour attention to that because that lists there by name and dis-
trict tlie name of every Congressman or Congresswoman from the
Chicago area of both parties. Democrats and Republicans. Mr.
Scherer is a member of one of the major parties, and I am a member
of the other major political party. We are not members of the same
political party.
But yesterday another identified Communist, Mrs. DeSchaaf, here
on the witness stand, identified an article by lier which she had printed
in the foreign language newspaper — I think it was June of 1951, as
I recall — in which she writes of "so-called representatives of democ-
racy."
I consider her testimony through that news article to be a slur on
every Chicago Congressman of both parties that they are merely
"so-called representatives of democracy." That is the intent that I
get out of this sheet.
Mr. Scherer. That is fine, Mr. Doyle.
Mr. Doyle. I want you as a Communist Party leader to know that
I, as a California Congressman, regard this sheet here in connection
with your testimony, and that of others, as a deliberate slur on every
Congressman from the State of Illinois, to say nothing of the slur on
democracy. I think you folks ought to be ashamed of yourselves.
Naturally, when I get back to Washington tonight or tomorrow,
your Illinois Congressmen in both parties will be made aware of this
kind of a malicious slur ao-ainst them.
INYESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 607
Is this witness excused, Mr. Counsel ?
Mr. Arens. Yes, sir.
Mr. Doyle. I want to read a short statement, please.
This 2-day hearing of this subcommittee of the Committee on Un-
American Activities of the House of Representatives is concluded
with a few remarks at the close of hearings, as is customary.
As one result of these Chicago hearings, we now have certain infor-
mation which we will find especially valuable, even though accumu-
lative, when it is added to similar facts which we have ascertained
in several other of our largest metropolitan areas, as to the extent,
character, and methods used by identified Communists, who are either
in control, management, or employ of foreign-language newspapers
in these heavily populated regions, to influence and prejudice Amer-
ican citizens of foreign birth or ancestry and to encourage them to
join up with the Comnnmist Party in its subversive propaganda
activities to destroy our constitutional form of government.
In this connection, I wish to make it perfectly clear, not only this
committee but I am sure all of Congress regards the great, great,
great majority of foreign-born citizens, and children of foreign-born
parents, as intensely loyal and patriotic. It is a very, very small
minority who have been or can be persuaded to get into the Com-
munist conspiracy.
But the shocking extent to which this subversive attack dares go,
even in time of our national emergency when we were at war to pro-
tect these American freedoms, is clearly illustrated by the unpatriotic
and reprehensible means used by editor Nellie DeSchaaf of the Eng-
lish section of the foreign-language paper Vilnis, when she described
in her published and widely distributed column to her readers, FBI
agents as "bloodhounds." Again, when she and the owners and man-
agement of that same foreign-language paper, identified as Com-
munists, reprinted without making any effort to ascertain the truth
or falsity thereof, during the Korean war a column printed in an-
other Communist-controlled paper supporting the Xorth Korean
Communist Army, amongst other dastardly falsehoods, charged the
American military with "putting American war prisoners to death
with live steam'' and with manipulating 18 torture rooms.
As my distinguished committee colleague, Mr. Scherer, said at the
time this evidence of treacherous Communist Party propaganda
through this foreign-language paper was put into the record of this
hearing on yesterday, it amounted to giving aid and comfort to the
enem}^ by that paper, by their writers, by their management, and by
their control.
But we of the committee are frequently exposing such rotten, un-
patriotic, subversive propaganda by Communists through Communist-
controlled channels, including Communist fronts and the radio, and
through pictures, too, exhibited by this last witness.
These and similar hearings by this committee, and by a correspond-
ing committee in the United States Senate, clearly add to the infor-
mation and factual data necessary to the United States Congress
to legislate adequately and fairly, always having in mind the con-
stitutional guarantees and rights of every American citizen.
The Internal Security xict, the Communist Control Act, the Im-
munity Act, together with many portions of other basic security
legislation, all designed to protect our national security against sub-
608 INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S.
versive propaganda and activities, and protect our democratic way of
life and our constitutional representative government, have been
added to our legislative strength and resources, to a large degree, by
these public hearings throughout our Nation. The resulting tie-in
between hearings in Los Angeles, Xew York, Chicago, New Orleans,
Detroit, Boston, Washington, Seattle, have all materially aided the
legislative purpose of this and other similar congressional committees
toward legislative enactment of laws on an intelligent and informed
basis.
Anothei' signilicaiit point of evidence went into the record yester-
day when the article of June 1951, printed in Vilnis, and again ad-
mittedly written by ""Housemother" Nellie DeSchaaf, charged Mem-
bers of Congress from Chicago and elsewhere with being ""so-called
representatives of democracy." Tliis is the Communist Party line,
emanating from the control of the Communist Party in the Ignited
States by the Communist Party in the Soviet Union, designed to
deliberately mislead the foreign born in the United States against our
form of I'epresentative government.
In view of the oft-repeated charge made yesterday, especially
by the witnesses wdio claimed the first, as well as the fifth amerid-
ment privilege, that this connnittee hearing was interfering with the
freedom of the press — although it sliould appear to all as crystal
(dear that we have not done so — I restate tlie substance of what I
announced yesterday in my opening remarks; to wit, that the pri-
mary jnirpose of this iufpiiry was to the extent to whicli the for-
eign-language i)ress in the Chicago area is either dominated or inhl-
trated by Connnmiists. This primary purpose, not being the exclu-
sive purpose, of course, we have followed.
Needless to say, all of the benehcial results of such hearings do not
appear through the facts gained or lack of facts gained from an
adverse witness on the witness stand. It should be stated that our
expert committee investigators, were ably assisted by the Chicago
Police Department for a considerable })eriod of time before this hear-
ing began. They manifestly learned much that we have not yet
produced in public. They learned much that could not be best pro-
duced in oral testimony at this time.
The freedom of the press which our avowed Connnunist citizens
seek to obtain is the freedom to control the press for the Com-
munist subversive propaganda machine. The Communist-controlled
press in our Nation owes it allegiance to the same fettered control
of the press which Soviet connnunism exercises over the Soviet
press. These same Communist-controlled foreign-language papers
are allowed, under our American freedom, to go right along and
print their papers and propagandize falsely and maliciously against
our form of government; but, at least, their foreign ideology-
controlled press jiolicy is being exposed nK)re and more to daylight
and information.
No American-controlled news{)aper published in Soviet Eussia,
falsely attacking the Soviet system of government, as does the Com-
munist-controlled press in the United States, would be continued even
to the next edition.
Now, one word about the turn aboutface, represented by the recent
convention of the Communist Party, U. S. A., in New York, to have
been made in which they claimed freedom of control and dictation
INVESTIGATION OF COMMUNIST PROPAGANDA IN U. S. 609
from any foreign or iiiteniationul Coiiuiiunist control. If tJiey were
in good faith to be released from international control, why was tlie
principal i)aper read before that ConHiiunist convention in our own
country in February and why did that come from the French Com-
munist Duclos, the same man who wrote the Duclos letter of 1045 to
the American Communist Party at the time Earl Browder was
deposed ?
The C^onnnunist Party in the L'nited States is constantly developing
new techniques, ever-changing masquerades and facades, behind
which to i^erform its corispiratorial work. It is because of this
fact that our work on the House Committee on Un-American Activi-
ties must be relentless and continuous, in order that we may detect
the new techniques and devices of the conspiracy, and, through this
to devise legishitive weapons with wliich to protect American freedom.
Oui' task is becoming increasingly more difticult because every
year the Communist conspiracy, overseas and here, goes deeper and
deeper underground. Long ago the Communist Party divested it-
self of the ideological dupes and the opportunists. Today the Com-
munist Party, although numerically smaller than in previous years,
constitutes a greater menace than ever before. The membership in
this conspiracy in our country consists almost exclusively of trained
hard-core Communist agents of the Kremlin who are the equivalent
of the foreign agents on American soil.
In the face of this situation the American people must be more
vigilant than ever and must be more informed than ever. They must
realize that the Communist operation in this country is onl}' part
of a worldwide conspiracy in a global war — in which our American
way of life is ])itted against the Comnumist way of life — in which
the forces of freedom are in constant battle with international com-
munism. In that battle, the price is, first, the minds of men; second,
continents: and third, the world itself. It is a battle which the
free world cannot afford to lose, and we in Congress are proud and
pleased to be in the front rank of that battle to protect our American
freedoms.
In closing. I want to express the appreciation of this committee
and of the United States Congress to the many people Avho have
cooperated with the subcommittee during our stay here in Chicago.
Our thanks go to the United States marshal and his deputies, to
the Chicago Police Department, both before and during these hear-
ings; to the distinguished United States district judge who assigned
us the privilege of using this courtroom in this building, to the cus-
todian of this building and all his associates, to the representatives
of the press, the free press, the radio, the television, as well as to many
others who cooperated with this subcommittee and its staff' in the
preparation and conduct of these hearings.
My last word is that we also much appreciate the very evident
cooperation of all the people in this room yesterday and today in
making it easy for this committee to perform our work because there
was no disturbance of any kind. On behalf of the United States
Congress, I am honored to say, thank you.
The committee stands adjourned.
(AMiereupon, at 11:50 a. m., "Wednesday, March 27, 1957. the
.-ubconnnittee recessed subject to the call of the Chair. )
INDEX
Individuaxs
Page
Audrulis, Vincent 508, 573
Baldwin, Bereniece 553
Herman, Leo 536
Borich, Frank 491
Braden, Carl 503, 511
Brandt, Joe 495
I '.rook. Calvin 538
r-nwder. Earl 496, 580,588,589
i:uta, Irene 573
Cnrr, Sam 492
(Vnkof 491
Chekhov, Anton 600-602
Czarnowski, Anzelm 571-573 (testimony)
DeSchaaf, Nellie 499-515 (testimony), 520, 606-608
Dimitroff. Stancho 561
Duclos, Jacques 496, 497
Finney, John W 591
Fisher, Leo 491, 535
Ford. James 491
Gebert, Boleslaw 553
Gelfand, Louis 572
(rlickman, Irving 572
Hart, Pearl M 499, 552, 556, 565
Heikkinen, Knut 544
Hillman, Sidney 527
Hirsch. Carl 576
Hyun, Peter 507
Jones. W. Jackson 587-588 (testimony)
Klanyac. Albert 572
Kling. Jack 495
Knicrbt. John S 501
Kncpl. Alice M 555
Knelmrski. Wladislaw 552-555 (testimony)
Landv, Avro 491
Lautner, John 485-499 (testimony). 525. 530. 54L 557. 558
Markoff. Nicholas 561.565-571 (testimony)
Minerich, Anthony 491,528-536 (testimony)
Mircheff. Bocho 491,492,555,556-564 (testimony)
Muste. A. J 487
O'Connor. Harvey 503, 511
Pauliukas. Jacob (also known as Mike Zaldakas)__ 500,508,515-522 (testimony)
Pauliukas. Mike. (See Pauliukas, Jacob.)
Pirinskv, George 566
Pruseika. Leon 508,520,522-527 (testimony)
Ra.ikovich, Nicholas 536
Ravmond. Charles 537
Rossen, John A 586,591-607 (testimony)
Rossen. L 598
Sas. Louis 491
Schnffer. Robert H 591
Selden, .Jeremy 593
Sergo. .John 572
i
ii INDEX
Page
.Sergo, Raymond 571, 572
Hergo, Raymond Mathew 572,573
Steinberg, Irving G 515, 522, 528, 539, 576, 591
Strazdas, Steven 520
Thomas, Norman 487
Trace, Cecile 511
Vidmar. John, Jr 536
VoydanoCf, Smeale 561
Walsh. Milce. (See Wastila, George M.)
Wangerin, Otto H 492, 576-589 ( testimony ), 592
Wastila, George M. (also known as Mike Walsh) 491,539-551 (testimony)
Webb, Herman 581
Wellman, vSol 495
Winston. Henry 487
Yonik. Alice 508, 520, 573
Yonnglove, Thomas A 581,592, 593
Zaldakas. Mike. (See Pauliukas, Jacob.)
Znskar, John 536-538 (testimony)
Organizations
Abraham Lincoln Brigade 593
American Finnish Publishers, Inc 540
Bulgarian-American Committee for Protection of Foreign Born 557
Bulgarian-American Peoples League 561
Chicago Committee To Preserve Freedom of Speech and the Press 509, 535
Chicago Council of American-Soviet Friendship 594, 596, 604
Cinema Annex (Theater) 595, 598, 600, 603
Civil Rights Congress, Illinois 584
Committee To Preserve American Freedoms 511, 514, 535, 576
Commimist Information Bureau 497
Communist Part,y, USA 487, 489
National structure :
16th National Convention, February 9-12, 1957, New York City__ 488
Hungarian National Bureau 485, 486
National Coumiittee 488, 489. 492, 580
National Training School 485, 486
Nationality Groups Commission 486, 489
Review Commission 48r»
Illinois 593
Michigan :
Control Commission 485
Detroit 490
New York 486
New York City 543
Harlem Section 491
Review Commission 486
Penns.vlvania, Pittsburgh 531
West Virginia 486
Croatian Fraternal Order 491
Crusade for Freedom 590, 591
Finnish-American Mutual Aid Societ.v. IWO 545
General Motors Corp.. Electromotive Division 572
GIos Ludow.v Association 553
International Workers Order 489, 490
Hungarian Section 486
L. M. S. Amusement Co., Inc 595,598
Modern Book Store 576, 577, 579, 587
Narodni Glasnik Publishing Co. Inc 531
rniversit.v of Chicago 604
Workers Alliance (St. Louis) 603
Workers Publishing Association, Inc 519
Workers School (Chicago) 586
INDEX iii
PlBLICATIONS
Pagl'
Chicago ^Maroou, The H04
Children in the U. S. S. II. (film) (50?.
China Pictoriiil 580
China lieeonstrncts ."iSO
( "hinese Literature .ISO
Daily Worker, Illinois Section .">7(»
p:arrli Our Planet, The (film) (50H
Fi-iend.shii) r>77
Glos Ludowy .">2, r).~);^>
In the Soviet Union (film) (500
International Affaii's 41)7
Korean Independent ."»0r). r>07
Last Stop, The (>(«
Latest Xewsreel, U. S. S. R. (film) (W.',
Ludova Noviny .">;'>s
Mainstream .~>,S0
Mao Tse-tung Selected Works 579
^Materialism and the Dialectical Method 570
Xaisten Viiri .540
Narodna Volya 401'. .557, 561, 5(5?., 505. .5(50
Xarodni Glasnik 401, .531, .535
New Times 570, 5S7
New York Times 501
Newsletter of the Air (radio program) ,50.S
Peoi)le's Army News 507
I'eoi)le's China .5S(I
Political Affairs .5X0
Selected Works of Marx and Engels 570
Soviet Literature 580
Soviet T'nion 570, 587
Ten Classics of Marxism 570
They Sing. Tliey Dance (film) 603
Tyomies Eteenpain 540, .544
Upheaval, The (film) 6(K»
Vilnis 404, 490, 500, 502, .504, 508, 519, 520, .523
Visit to India, A (film) 603
We Visit ^loscow (film) 603
Your Right (leaflet) 511. 514
Zhurhin Family, The (book) HOO
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