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Originally Processed With FOIA(s): FOIA Number: S S FOIA MARKER This is not a textual record. This is used as an administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential Library Staff. Record Group/Collection: George H.W. Bush Presidential Records Collection/Office of Origin: Speechwriting, White House Office of Series: Speech File Draft Files Subseries: Chron Files, 1989-1993 OA/ID Number: 13526 Folder ID Number: 13526-003 Folder Title: Passover Ceremony 4/4/90 [OA 4727] Stack: Row: Section: Shelf: Position: G 26 16 2 4 Document No. 128521 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 3/31/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM SUBJECT: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 1990 10:30 AM ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE N/C SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH N/C BATES N/C UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS CICCONI PINKERTON N/C DEMAREST WINSTON FITZWATER FIRESTONE GRAY NC DeCAMP HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide comments/edits on the attached directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2, with a copy to my office. Thank you. RESPONSE: James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 Grant March 30, 1990 1990 MAR 30 PM 6: 34 Draft two/a:passover BRIEF REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 10:30 A.M. Welcome to the White House. Today, we are marking Passover, known as the "Festival of Freedom," a poignant occasion in a year that has seen freedom's fires] light begin to burn all over the world - glow - in Eastern Europe, in Central and South America, in Africa, and even in the Soviet Union. "Let my people go." Those were the words of Moses nearly four thousand years ago, when the Israelites took their first step on the march from captivity to freedom. All Americans share in the solemn pride of millions of Jewish men, and women and children everywhere as they commemorate the Exodus. It was a journey of courage and strength, toward the dream of a better tomorrow. continued that Today, as well, people all throughout the world have begun- an epic journey -- a quest -- for a new life of liberty and peace. We support them in their struggle for democracy. We admire them for their strength of conviction. And we pray for their success. And as we remember the exodus of the Hebrew people, it is my deep honor to welcome Vladimir Raiz to the United States after Insert I eighteen years of waiting. V For nearly two decades of darkness, you have been a brave symbol for all refuseniks. We must not -- and we will not -- forget those who remain behind. we acknowledge and appland the dramatic changes that have taken place Mn the Soviet Union, making possible have. But the emigration of many who have long sought to Insert I 2 Vladimir and Karmella, may you enjoy many years of happiness together in your new home in Israel. I'd also like to welcome Natasha Stonov to the White House. 11 I admire the courage and determination you and your husband Leonid have shown through eleven long years of waiting. You have become the voice of the refusenik community, and your steadfast efforts have been invaluable to us as we strive to convince the Soviet leadership to act on its promises. I regret that another Passover is here with Leonid still in the Soviet Union. I wish that he were here with you in America, so that he too could experience the freedoms we enjoy. We ask you convey a message that you when you return to Leonid and all others who still await freedom, (you will convey this message from us: 11 [you] They are not forgotten. 11 [AS As long as one person remains unjustly denied exit permission in the Soviet Union, we will continue our efforts. As long as human rights are not routinely protected in the Soviet Union, we will persist. Until that day, until all are free -- none can be truly free. III) The Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel said, "Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings." Vladimir, you have given us hope. For that we admire you, and together, we look forward to the day when no nation interferes with the faith of any of its people. Thank you, and God bless you. # # # PASSOVER CEREMONY / THE ROOSEVELT ROOM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 / 10:30 A.M. WELCOME TO THE WHITE HOUSE. TODAY, WE ARE MARKING PASSOVER, KNOWN AS THE "FESTIVAL OF FREEDOM," A POIGNANT OCCASION IN A YEAR THAT HAS SEEN FREEDOM'S LIGHTS BEGIN TO GLOW ALL OVER THE WORLD -- IN EASTERN EUROPE, IN CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA, IN AFRICA, AND EVEN IN THE SOVIET UNION. - 2 - "LET MY PEOPLE GO." THOSE WERE THE WORDS OF MOSES NEARLY FOUR THOUSAND YEARS AGO, WHEN THE ISRAELITES TOOK THEIR FIRST STEP ON THE MARCH FROM CAPTIVITY TO FREEDOM. ALL AMERICANS SHARE IN THE SOLEMN PRIDE OF MILLIONS OF JEWISH MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN EVERYWHERE AS THEY COMMEMORATE THE EXODUS. IT WAS A JOURNEY OF COURAGE AND STRENGTH, TOWARD THE DREAM OF A BETTER TOMORROW. - 3 - TODAY, AS WELL, PEOPLE ALL THROUGHOUT THE WORLD HAVE CONTINUED THAT EPIC JOURNEY -- A QUEST -- FOR A NEW LIFE OF LIBERTY AND PEACE. WE SUPPORT THEM IN THEIR STRUGGLE FOR DEMOCRACY. WE ADMIRE THEM FOR THEIR STRENGTH OF CONVICTION. AND WE PRAY FOR THEIR SUCCESS. THIS IS A SPECIAL TIME OF REJOICING FOR THE morethans more than 000 THOUSANDS OF SOVIET JEWS WHO HAVE MADE THEIR WAY TO ISRAEL IN RECENT MONTHS. this year - 4 - WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE LENT A HELPING HAND OVER THE YEARS TO MAKE POSSIBLE THE HISTORIC EMIGRATION FROM THE SOVIET UNION OF THOSE WHO HAVE LONG SOUGHT TO LEAVE. THE MODERN EXODUS IS A GREAT EVENT FOR ALL THOSE WHO DELIGHT IN HUMAN FREEDOM. THE UNITED STATES HAS WORKED HARD TO OPEN UP THIS LIFELINE; WE WILL CONTINUE TO DO EVERYTHING NECESSARY TO MAKE IT POSSIBLE FOR SOVIET JEWS TO GET TO ISRAEL, INCLUDING PRESSING FOR DIRECT AND INDIRECT FLIGHTS. - 5 - WE ARE GLAD THAT so MANY WILL CELEBRATE THE SEDER IN ISRAEL. AND WE ARE GOING TO KEEP WORKING SO THAT MANY MORE CAN JOIN THEM. As WE REMEMBER THE EXODUS OF THE HEBREW PEOPLE, IT IS MY DEEP HONOR TO WELCOME VLADIMIR RAIZ TO THE UNITED STATES AFTER EIGHTEEN YEARS OF WAITING. 11 VLADIMIR AND KARMELLA, MAY YOU AND YOUR CHILDREN ENJOY MANY YEARS OF HAPPINESS TOGETHER IN YOUR NEW HOME IN ISRAEL. 11 - 6 - FOR NEARLY TWO DECADES OF DARKNESS, YOU HAVE BEEN A BRAVE SYMBOL FOR ALL REFUSENIKS. WE ACKNOWLEDGE AND APPLAUD THE DRAMATIC CHANGES THAT HAVE TAKEN PLACE IN THE SOVIET UNION, MAKING POSSIBLE THE EMIGRATION OF MANY WHO HAVE LONG SOUGHT TO LEAVE. BUT WE MUST NOT -- AND WE WILL NOT -- FORGET THOSE WHO REMAIN BEHIND. I'D ALSO LIKE TO WELCOME NATASHA STONOV TO THE WHITE HOUSE. 11 - 7 - I ADMIRE THE COURAGE AND DETERMINATION YOU AND YOUR HUSBAND LEONID HAVE SHOWN THROUGH ELEVEN LONG YEARS OF WAITING. You HAVE BECOME THE VOICE OF THE REFUSENIK COMMUNITY, AND YOUR STEADFAST EFFORTS HAVE BEEN INVALUABLE TO US AS WE STRIVE TO CONVINCE THE SOVIET LEADERSHIP TO ACT ON ITS PROMISES. I REGRET THAT ANOTHER PASSOVER IS HERE WITH LEONID STILL IN THE SOVIET UNION. - 8 - I WISH THAT HE WERE HERE WITH YOU IN AMERICA, SO THAT HE TOO COULD EXPERIENCE THE FREEDOMS WE ENJOY. WE ASK THAT YOU CONVEY A MESSAGE TO LEONID AND ALL OTHERS WHO STILL AWAIT FREEDOM: 11 THEY ARE NOT FORGOTTEN. 11 THE NOBEL LAUREATE ELIE WIESEL SAID, "JUST AS DESPAIR CAN COME TO ONE ONLY FROM OTHER HUMAN BEINGS, HOPE, Too, CAN BE GIVEN TO ONE ONLY BY OTHER HUMAN BEINGS." - 9 - VLADIMIR, YOU HAVE GIVEN US HOPE. FOR THAT WE ADMIRE YOU, AND TOGETHER, WE LOOK FORWARD TO THE DAY WHEN NO NATION INTERFERES WITH THE FAITH OF ANY OF ITS PEOPLE. THANK YOU, AND GOD BLESS YOU. ### 128521SS Document No. WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM 4/3/90 DATE: --- ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: SUBJECT: PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS CICCONI WINSTON DEMAREST PINKERTON FITZWATER FIRESTONE GRAY DeCAMP HAGIN REMARKS: The attached has been forwarded to the President. RESPONSE: 90 MAR 3 Alo : 29 James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON 1990 APR My I. 51 April 3, 1990 INFORMATION MEMORANDUM TO THE PRESIDENT THROUGH: DAVID DEMAREST # FROM: SUBJECT: MARY PASSOVER KATE CEREMONY GRANT mkg I. SUMMARY Attached for your review are brief remarks for the Passover message signing ceremony, to be held Wednesday, April 4 at 10:30 a.m. in the Roosevelt Room. You will deliver your 3-4 minute remarks from cards. II. DISCUSSION This ceremony is also a welcoming ceremony for Vladimir Raiz, a leading refusenik who was granted an exit visa only recently. His wife, Karmella, will be with him (she was here for the Hanukkah ceremony last December). Also present will be Natasha Stonov, a Soviet Jew who is returning to the Soviet Union to continue to live in refusal with her husband. While these remarks applaud the progress made in allowing the Soviet Jews their freedom, we also urge the Soviet Union to act on its promises. Grant April 3, 1990 Draft three/a:passover BRIEF REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 10:30 A.M. Welcome to the White House. Today, we are marking Passover, known as the "Festival of Freedom," a poignant occasion in a year that has seen freedom's light begin to glow all over the world -- in Eastern Europe, in Central and South America, in Africa, and even in the Soviet Union. "Let my people go." Those were the words of Moses nearly four thousand years ago, when the Israelites took their first step on the march from captivity to freedom. All Americans share in the solemn pride of millions of Jewish men, women and children everywhere as they commemorate the Exodus. It was a journey of courage and strength, toward the dream of a better tomorrow. Today, as well, people all throughout the world have continued that epic journey -- a quest -- for a new life of liberty and peace. We support them in their struggle for democracy. We admire them for their strength of conviction. And we pray for their success. And as we remember the exodus of the Hebrews, it is my deep honor to welcome Vladimir Raiz [Rye-ease] to the United States after eighteen years of waiting. 11 Vladimir and Karmella, may you and your children enjoy many years of happiness together in your new home in Israel. 11 For nearly two decades of darkness, you have been a brave symbol for all refuseniks. We acknowledge 2 and applaud the dramatic changes that have taken place in the Soviet Union, making possible the emigration of many who have long sought to leave. But we must not -- and we will not -- forget those who remain behind. I'd also like to welcome Natasha Stonov [Stow-nov] to the White House. 11 I admire the courage and determination you and your husband Leonid have shown through eleven long years of waiting. You have become the voice of the refusenik community, and your steadfast efforts have been invaluable to us as we strive to convince the Soviet leadership to act on its promises. I regret that another Passover is here with Leonid still in the Soviet Union. I wish that he were here with you in America, so that he too could experience the freedoms we enjoy. We ask that you convey a message to Leonid and all others who still await freedom: 11 They are not forgotten. 11 The Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel said, "Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings." Vladimir, you have given us hope. For that we admire you, and together, we look forward to the day when no nation interferes with the faith of any of its people. Thank you, and God bless you. # # # Grant April 3, 1990 Draft three/a:passover BRIEF REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 10:30 A.M. Welcome to the White House. Today, we are marking Passover, known as the "Festival of Freedom," a poignant occasion in a year that has seen freedom's light begin to glow all over the world -- in Eastern Europe, in Central and South America, in Africa, and even in the Soviet Union. "Let my people go." Those were the words of Moses nearly four thousand years ago, when the Israelites took their first step on the march from captivity to freedom. All Americans share in the solemn pride of millions of Jewish men, women and children everywhere as they commemorate the Exodus. It was a journey of courage and strength, toward the dream of a better tomorrow. Today, as well, people all throughout the world have continued that epic journey -- a quest -- for a new life of liberty and peace. We support them in their struggle for democracy. We admire them for their strength of conviction. And we pray for their success. And as we remember the exodus of the Hebrews, it is my deep honor to welcome Vladimir Raiz [Rye-ease] to the United States after eighteen years of waiting. 11 Vladimir and Karmella, may you and your children enjoy many years of happiness together in your new home in Israel. 11 For nearly two decades of darkness, you have been a brave symbol for all refuseniks. We acknowledge 2 and applaud the dramatic changes that have taken place in the Soviet Union, making possible the emigration of many who have long sought to leave. But we must not -- and we will not -- forget those who remain behind. I'd also like to welcome Natasha Stonov [Stow-nov] to the White House. I admire the courage and determination you and your husband Leonid have shown through eleven long years of waiting. You have become the voice of the refusenik community, and your steadfast efforts have been invaluable to us as we strive to convince the Soviet leadership to act on its promises. I regret that another Passover is here with Leonid still in the Soviet Union. I wish that he were here with you in America, so that he too could experience the freedoms we enjoy. We ask that you convey a message to Leonid and all others who still await freedom: 11 They are not forgotten. 11 The Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel said, "Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings." Vladimir, you have given us hope. For that we admire you, and together, we look forward to the day when no nation interferes with the faith of any of its people. Thank you, and God bless you. # # # MK- Here are the pronunciations for Raiz and Stonou from the State Dept-evenything checked out- - the only thing d need now is the Source for the Elie Wisel quote is it in one of your books ? IN 647-6729 (State Dept) Raiz - Rye-ease Stonov - Stow- nov From Bobbie Kilberg read at a huge rally this Friday wening. All language safe to use! MK mon weekend in NYC. Edited by Scowcroft himself a.m THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON March 30, 1990 I am pleased to extend greetings to the members of the New York Coalition for Soviet Jewry and to all those gathered for the "Rally of Response -- Solidarity Sunday." You are gathered to celebrate history in the making, for the exodus of Soviet Jews, most of whom are going to Israel, is truly a historic moment. The American people have long spoken out for human rights, including the right of Jews and others to emigrate from the Soviet Union to make a new home for their families. I applaud the decisions of the Soviet leadership to enable greater numbers of Soviet Jews to leave. As Americans, we are proud that we have helped to give Soviet Jews the freedom to choose. We must also be strong in the face of old threats and modern ones. Jews in the Soviet Union are justifiably fearful of the alarming rise in expressions of anti- Semitism, an odious scourge that I believe everyone must condemn and stamp out. The Soviet leadership must take a firm stand against all forms of anti-Semitism, bigotry, intolerance, and defamation. There is also the threat of terrorism against innocent Jews fulfilling their dream of a return to Israel. To stand resolute against these terrorist threats is to defeat their cowardly perpetrators. Soviet Jews should be allowed free and unimpeded transit as well as direct flights to Israel. With strength, confidence, and support we will share in history in the making, a great march for Jews into freedom. I pledge my help every step of the way. Barbara joins me in sending best wishes for a fruitful event. May God bless you and protect your brethren. ag Breh OEDB Document No. 128521 122 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM 3/31/90 DATE: ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM SUBJECT: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 1990 10:30 AM ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS PINKERTON CICCONI DEMAREST WINSTON FITZWATER FIRESTONE GRAY DeCAMP HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide comments/edits on the attached directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2, with a copy to my office. Thank you. RESPONSE: NO COMMENT 4-2-90 James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 Document No. 128521 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM DATE: 3/31/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM SUBJECT: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 1990 10:30 AM ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS CICCONI PINKERTON DEMAREST WINSTON FITZWATER FIRESTONE GRAY DeCAMP HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide comments/edits on the attached directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2, with a copy to my office. Thank you. RESPONSE: purcomments PP 90 MAR 2 P2: 05 James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 Grant March 30, 1990 1990 MAR 30 PM 6: 34 Draft two/a:passover BRIEF REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 10:30 A.M. Welcome to the White House. Today, we are marking Passover, known as the "Festival of Freedom," a poignant occasion in a year that has seen freedom's fires begin to flow burn all over the world - light - in Eastern Europe, in Central and South America, in Africa, and even in the Soviet Union. "Let my people go." Those were the words of Moses nearly four thousand years ago, when the Israelites took their first step on the march from captivity to freedom. All Americans share in the solemn pride of millions of Jewish men and women everywhere as they commemorate the Exodus. It was a journey of courage and strength, toward the dream of a better tomorrow. continued Today, as well, people all throughout the world have begun that am epic journey -- a quest -- for a new life of liberty and peace. We support them in their struggle for democracy. We admire them for their strength of conviction. And we pray for their success. And as we remember the exodus of the Hebrew people, it is my deep honor to welcome Vladimir Raiz to the United States after eighteen years of waiting. 11 For nearly two decades of darkness, you have been a brave symbol for all refuseniks. We must not -- and we will not -- forget those who remain behind. 2 Vladimir and Karmella, may you enjoy many years of happiness together in your new home in Israel. I'd also like to welcome Natasha Stonov to the White House. 11 I admire the courage and determination you and your husband Leonid have shown through eleven long years of waiting. You have become the voice of the refusenik community, and your steadfast efforts have been invaluable to us as we strive to convince the Soviet leadership to act on its promises. I regret that another Passover is here with Leonid still in the Soviet Union. I wish that he were here with you in America, so that he too could experience the freedoms we enjoy. We ask you comey a message that you when you return to Leonid and all others who still await freedom, you will convey this message from us: 11 They You are not forgotten. 11 As long as one person remains unjustly denied exit permission in the Soviet Union, we will continue our efforts. As long as human rights are not routinely protected in the Soviet Union, we will persist. Until that day, until all are free -- none can be truly free. 111 The Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel said, "Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings." Vladimir, you have given us hope. For that we admire you, and together, we look forward to the day when no nation interferes with the faith of any of its people. Thank you, and God bless you. # # # Document No. 12852 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM 2499 DATE: 3/31/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM SUBJECT: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 1990 10: 30 AM ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS CICCONI PINKERTON DEMAREST WINSTON FITZWATER FIRESTONE GRAY DeCAMP P HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide comments/edits on the attached directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2, with a copy to my office. Thank you. RESPONSE: April 2, 1990 TO: CHRISS WINSTON NSC clears the Presidential remarks for the Passover ceremony on April 4, with changes marked. 15:20 B Scowcroft Brenty 06 James W. Cicconi CC: James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 18:14 to 30 MAR 31 P12: 57 Grant March 30, 1990 1990 MAR 30 PM 6: 34 Draft two/a:passover BRIEF REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 10:30 A.M. Welcome to the White House. Today, we are marking Passover, known as the "Festival of Freedom," a poignant occasion in a year that has seen freedom's fires begin to burn all over the world - - in Eastern Europe, in Central and South America, in Africa, and even in the Soviet Union. "Let my people go." Those were the words of Moses nearly four thousand years ago, when the Israelites took their first step on the march from captivity to freedom. All Americans share in the solemn pride of millions of Jewish men and women everywhere as they commemorate the Exodus. It was a journey of courage and strength, toward the dream of a better tomorrow. Today, as well, people all throughout the world have begun an epic journey -- a quest -- for a new life of liberty and peace. We support them in their struggle for democracy. We admire them for their strength of conviction. And we pray for their success. And as we remember the exodus of the Hebrew people, it is my deep honor to welcome Vladimir Raiz to the United States after Fromp. 2 eighteen years of waiting. For nearly two decades of darkness, you have been a brave symbol for all refuseniks. We must not -- and we will not -- forget those who remain behind. We acknowledge and appland the dramatic changes that have taken place in the Soriet Unim, making possible the emigration of many who have long Sought toleave. But 2 Vladimir and Karmella, may you enjoy many years of happiness together in your new home in Israel. To p.l I'd also like to welcome Natasha Stonov to the White House. 11 I admire the courage and determination you and your husband Leonid have shown through eleven long years of waiting. You have become the voice of the refusenik community, and your steadfast efforts have been invaluable to us as we strive to convince the Soviet leadership to act on its promises. I regret that another Passover is here with Leonid still in the Soviet Union. I wish that he were here with you in America, so that he too could experience the freedoms we enjoy. We ask that you when you return to Leonid and all others who still await freedom, you will convey this message from us: 11 You are not forgotten. 11 [AS As long as one person remains unjustly denied exit permission in the Soviet Union, we will continue our efforts. As Overkill long as human rights are not routinely protected in the Soviet Union, we will persist. Until that day, until all are free none can be truly free. The Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel said, "Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings." Vladimir, you have given us hope. For that we admire you, and together, we look forward to the day when no nation interferes with the faith of any of its people. Thank you, and God bless you. # # # Document No. 12852 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM 2499 1990 APR MAR PM 9A% 06 DATE: 3/31/90 ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM SUBJECT: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 1990 10: 30 AM ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS CICCONI PINKERTON DEMAREST WINSTON FITZWATER FIRESTONE GRAY DeCAMP HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide comments/edits on the attached directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2, with a copy to my office. Thank you. RESPONSE: April 2, 1990 TO: CHRISS WINSTON NSC clears the Presidential remarks for the Passover ceremony on April 4, with changes marked. B Brent Scowcroft James W. Cicconi CC: James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 Grant March 30, 1990 1990 MAR 30 PM 6: 34 Draft two/a:passover BRIEF REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 10:30 A.M. Welcome to the White House. Today, we are marking Passover, known as the "Festival of Freedom," a poignant occasion in a year that has seen freedom's fires begin to burn all over the world - - in Eastern Europe, in Central and South America, in Africa, and even in the Soviet Union. "Let my people go." Those were the words of Moses nearly four thousand years ago, when the Israelites took their first step on the march from captivity to freedom. All Americans share in the solemn pride of millions of Jewish men and women everywhere as they commemorate the Exodus. It was a journey of courage and strength, toward the dream of a better tomorrow. Today, as well, people all throughout the world have begun an epic journey -- a quest -- for a new life of liberty and peace. We support them in their struggle for democracy. We admire them for their strength of conviction. And we pray for their success. And as we remember the exodus of the Hebrew people, it is my deep honor to welcome Vladimir Raiz to the United States after Fromp.: eighteen years of waiting. For nearly two decades of darkness, you have been a brave symbol for all refuseniks. We must not -- and we will not -- forget those who remain behind. We acknowledge and appland the dramatic changes that have taken place in the Soriet Union, making possible the emigration of many who have long Sought toleave. But we 2 Vladimir and Karmella, may you enjoy many years of happiness together in your new home in Israel. To 6.1 I'd also like to welcome Natasha Stonov to the White House. 11 I admire the courage and determination you and your husband Leonid have shown through eleven long years of waiting. You have become the voice of the refusenik community, and your steadfast efforts have been invaluable to us as we strive to convince the Soviet leadership to act on its promises. I regret that another Passover is here with Leonid still in the Soviet Union. I wish that he were here with you in America, so that he too could experience the freedoms we enjoy. We ask that you when you return to Leonid and all others who still await freedom, you will convey this message from us: You are not forgotten. 11 [AS As long as one person remains unjustly denied exit permission in the Soviet Union, we will continue our efforts. As Overkill long as human rights are not routinely protected in the Soviet Union, we will persist. Until that day, until all are free none can be truly free. The Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel said, "Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings. " Vladimir, you have given us hope. For that we admire you, and together, we look forward to the day when no nation interferes with the faith of any of its people. Thank you, and God bless you. # # # Bobbie Kilberg Grant March 30, 1990 1990 MAR 30 PII 6: 34 Draft two/a:passover BRIEF REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 10:30 A.M. Welcome to the White House. Today, we are marking Passover, known as the "Festival of Freedom," a poignant occasion in a year that has seen freedom's fires begin to burn all over the world - - in Eastern Europe, in Central and South America, in Africa, and even in the Soviet Union. "Let my people go." Those were the words of Moses nearly four thousand years ago, when the Israelites took their first step on the march from captivity to freedom. All Americans share in the solemn pride of millions of Jewish men and women a NO children everywhere as they commemorate the Exodus. It was a journey of courage and strength, toward the dream of a better tomorrow. Today, as well, people all throughout the world have begun an epic journey -- a quest -- for a new life of liberty and peace. We support them in their struggle for democracy. We admire them for their strength of conviction. And we pray for their success. And as we remember the exodus of the Hebrew people, it is my deep honor to welcome Vladimir Raiz to the United States after From p. 2 eighteen years of waiting. For nearly two decades of darkness, you have been a brave symbol for all refuseniks. We must not -- and we will not -- forget those who remain behind. We acknowledge and appland the drametic changes that have taken place in the Smet Unim, making possible the emigration of many who have long Sought to leave. But 2 your chilDRaN Vladimir and Karmella, may you enjoy many years of happiness together in your new home in Israel. To 6.1 I'd also like to welcome Natasha Stonov to the White House. 11 I admire the courage and determination you and your husband Leonid have shown through eleven long years of waiting. You have become the voice of the refusenik community, and your steadfast efforts have been invaluable to us as we strive to convince the Soviet leadership to act on its promises. I regret that another Passover is here with Leonid still in the Soviet Union. I wish that he were here with you in America, so that he too could experience the freedoms we enjoy. We ask that you when you return to Leonid and all others who still await freedom, you will convey this message from us: 11 You are not forgotten. 11 [AS As long as one person remains unjustly denied exit permission in the Soviet Union, we will continue our efforts. As luerkill long as human rights are not routinely protected in the Soviet Union, we will persist. Until that day, until all are free none can be truly free. The Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel said, "Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings. " Vladimir, you have given us hope. For that we admire you, and together, we look forward to the day when no nation interferes with the faith of any of its people. Thank you, and God bless you. # # # Document No. 128521 WHITE HOUSE STAFFING MEMORANDUM 3/31/90 DATE: ACTION/CONCURRENCE/COMMENT DUE BY: 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2 PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM SUBJECT: WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 1990 10: 30 AM ACTION FYI ACTION FYI VICE PRESIDENT MCCLURE SUNUNU NEWMAN SCOWCROFT PORTER DARMAN ROGICH BATES UNTERMEYER CARD ROGERS PINKERTON CICCONI DEMAREST WINSTON FITZWATER FIRESTONE GRAY DeCAMP HAGIN REMARKS: Please provide comments/edits on the attached directly to Chriss Winston, Rm. 122, x2930, no later than 4:00 PM MONDAY, APRIL 2, with a copy to my office. Thank you. RESPONSE: OK RuthCrall for Sig Rogill James W. Cicconi Assistant to the President and Deputy to the Chief of Staff Ext. 2702 Grant March 30, 1990 1990 MAR 30 PM 6: 34 Draft two/a:passover BRIEF REMARKS: PASSOVER CEREMONY THE ROOSEVELT ROOM WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4 10:30 A.M. Welcome to the White House. Today, we are marking Passover, known as the "Festival of Freedom," a poignant occasion in a year that has seen freedom's fires begin to burn all over the world - - in Eastern Europe, in Central and South America, in Africa, and even in the Soviet Union. "Let my people go." Those were the words of Moses nearly four thousand years ago, when the Israelites took their first step on the march from captivity to freedom. All Americans share in the solemn pride of millions of Jewish men and women everywhere as they commemorate the Exodus. It was a journey of courage and strength, toward the dream of a better tomorrow. Today, as well, people all throughout the world have begun an epic journey -- a quest -- for a new life of liberty and peace. We support them in their struggle for democracy. We admire them for their strength of conviction. And we pray for their success. And as we remember the exodus of the Hebrew people, it is my deep honor to welcome Vladimir Raiz to the United States after eighteen years of waiting. 11 For nearly two decades of darkness, you have been a brave symbol for all refuseniks. We must not -- and we will not -- forget those who remain behind. 2 Vladimir and Karmella, may you enjoy many years of happiness together in your new home in Israel. I'd also like to welcome Natasha Stonov to the White House. 11 I admire the courage and determination you and your husband Leonid have shown through eleven long years of waiting. You have become the voice of the refusenik community, and your steadfast efforts have been invaluable to us as we strive to convince the Soviet leadership to act on its promises. I regret that another Passover is here with Leonid still in the Soviet Union. I wish that he were here with you in America, so that he too could experience the freedoms we enjoy. We ask that you when you return to Leonid and all others who still await freedom, you will convey this message from us: 11 You are not forgotten. 11 As long as one person remains unjustly denied exit permission in the Soviet Union, we will continue our efforts. As long as human rights are not routinely protected in the Soviet Union, we will persist. Until that day, until all are free -- none can be truly free. III The Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel said, "Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings." Vladimir, you have given us hope. For that we admire you, and together, we look forward to the day when no nation interferes with the faith of any of its people. Thank you, and God bless you. # # # THE WHITE HOUSE Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release April 4, 1990 REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT AT CEREMONY FOR SIGNING OF PASSOVER MESSAGE The Roosevelt Room 10:50 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Mr. Vice President, Mr. Secretary and distinguished guests. Welcome to the White House. Today, we are marking Passover, known as the "Festival of Freedom," a poignant occasion in the year that has seen freedom's lights begin to glow all over the world -- in Eastern Europe, in Central and South America, in Africa, and even in the Soviet Union. "Let my people go." Those were the words of Moses nearly 4,000 years ago, when the Israelites took the first step on the march from captivity to freedom. All Americans share in the solemn pride of millions of Jewish men, women and children everywhere as they commemorate the Exodus. It was a journey of courage and strength, toward the dream of a better tomorrow. And today, as well, people all throughout the world have continued that epic journey, a quest, for a new life of liberty and peace. We support them in their struggle for democracy. We admire them for the strength of conviction. And we pray for their success. This is a special time of rejoicing for the more than 15,000 Soviet Jews who have made their way to Israel this year. We are proud to have lent a helping hand, over the years, to make possible the historic emigration, from the Soviet Union, of those who have long sought to leave. The modern exodus is a great event for all those who delight in human freedom. The United States has worked hard to open up this lifeline. And we will continue to do everything necessary to make it possible for Soviet Jews to get to Israel, including continuing to press for direct and indirect flights. We are glad that so many will celebrate the seder in Israel, and we're going to keep working so that many more can join them. As we remember the Exodus, it is my deep honor to welcome Zev Raiz to the United States, after 18 years of waiting. Zev -- (Applause.) Zev and Karmella, may you and your children enjoy many years of happiness together in your new home in Israel. For nearly two decades of darkness, you've been a brave symbol for all refuseniks. And we acknowledge and then applaud the dramatic changes that have taken place in the Soviet Union, making possible the emigration of many who have long sought to leave. But we must not -- and I can assure you, we will not forget those who are left behind. And I'd also like to welcome Natasha Stonov to the White House. I admire the courage and determination that you and Leonid, your husband, have shown through 11 long years of waiting. You have become the voice of the refusenik community, and your steadfast efforts have been invaluable to us as we strive to convince the Soviet leadership to act on its promises. I regret that another Passover is here with Leonid still in the Soviet Union. I wish that he were here with you in America, so that he, too, could experience the freedoms we enjoy. And we ask that you convey a message to Leonid and all others who still await freedom: They are not forgotten. The Nobel Laureate -- a friend to so many in this room -- MORE - 2 - Elie Wiesel said, "Just as despair can come to one only from other human beings, hope, too, can be given to one only by other human beings.' Zev, you have given us hope. For that, we admire you. And together, we look forward to the day when no nation interferes with the faith of any of its people. So thank you all for being here with us on this very solemn and special occasion. And, once again, I rejoice in your happiness, and we're so pleased you're here. And now I will sign this. (Applause.) END 10:59 A.M. EDT