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Indochina Refugees - President's Advisory Committee: Meeting, 6/25/75 (1)
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Indochina Refugees - President's Advisory Committee: Meeting, 6/25/75 (1)
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The original documents are located in Box 11, folder "Indochina Refugees - President's
Advisory Committee: Meeting, 6/25/75 (1)" of the Theodore C. Marrs Files at the Gerald
R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box 11 of the Theodore C. Marrs Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
THE PRESIDENT'S ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON REFUGEES
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20506
AMBASSADOR JOHN EISENHOWER
CHAIRMAN
R-Fill ROGER D. SEMERAD
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
(202) 456-7034
MAYOR JOSEPH ALIOTO
ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH BERNARDIN
MR. ASHBY BOYLE
July 7, 1975
DR. W. STERLING CARY
MR. JOHN DENVER
MRS. GAETANA ENDERS
GOVERNOR DANIEL EVANS
MAYOR MAURICE FERRE
MR. MINOR GEORGE
MEMORANDUM FOR: DR. THEODORE MARRS
MR. EDGAR KAISER
MR. PHILIP KLUTZNICK
FROM:
ROGER D. SEMERAD
MR. WILLIAM J. KUHFUSS
MR. GEORGE MEANY
MR. CLARKE REED
SUBJECT:
SUMMARY OF THE THIRD MEETING
DR. MALCOLM TODD
OF THE PRESIDENT'S ADVISORY
ELDER A. THEODORE TUTTLE
COMMITTEE ON REFUGEES OF
JUNE 25TH
GERALD R. FORD LIBRARY
On Wednesday, June 25 the President's Advisory
Committee on Refugees met in the New Executive
Office Building.
Nine members of the committee were present;
eight were absent, however three of those absent
were represented by their alternates. The theme
for virtually the entire meeting was sponsorship,
encouragement to become sponsors and the assimila-
tion of refugees into the economy by way of employ-
ment.
The labor management meeting of June 24 was pre-
sented and discussed. The result of the labor
management meeting was that a letter would be
prepared by the Chamber of Commerce. This letter
would be to the various member organizations
throughout the United States in major cities. The
letter would explain the Washington meeting and
encourage other such meetings within the member
cities. Prior to transmission this letter would
be cleared by the NAB, NAM, AFL-CIO, UAW, UMW,
and IBT. The committee unanimously supported this
action and recommended that the letter be prepared,
cleared and transmitted with all due speed.
FORD
Page 2 - Dr. Marrs
A significant amount of time was devoted to a discussion
of sources of additional sponsors. Governor Evans of
Washington presented that States plan and method for
sponsorship at the State level. This presentation
was again unanimously accepted by the committee with
directions to the staff to draft a letter to all
governors encouraging them to emulate Governor Evans.
Included with this letter would be Washington's
methodology for sponsorship. This letter has been
written, cleared and transmitted to all governors.
The committee spent some time in discussing increased
publicity for sponsorship. It was their understanding
that one of the major problems which we have in reset-
tlement is the lack of sponsors. Accordingly it was
recommended and carried that a series of television
spot announcements encouraging sponsorship be made
using Mrs. Ford and various members of the committee,
in addition to other national personalities. In the
making of these television spot announcements the
committee directed staff to determine how best to
address the task and move immediately towards its
accomplishment. To date we are discussing final
clearances of the contract with the IATF. Hopefully
the contract will be signed and work commence no
later than July 11th. With this schedule, first
transmission would be by September lst.
The committee explored the enlistment of refugees
in the United States Armed Forces. They believed
that those refugees who had received significant
military training in the United States and who
desired to enter the Armed Forces should be afforded
that opportunity. They directed staff to determine
from the DoD what the actual policy would be concerning
enlistment. A letter from me to Principal Deputy
Assistant Secretary Von Marbod requesting this infor-
mation has been sent. We have also been in contact with
Mr. D. Srull, DASD (M&RA) who is actually tasked with
setting this policy.
Page 3 - Dr. Marrs
The committee made a very positive statement and
recommended that all federal agencies be notified
of the equal employment opportunities and minority
priorities for the refugees if they so qualify for
federal employment.
The results of the refugee advisory group meeting
were presented along with a list of recommendations.
Paramount among these recommendations were: the
opportunity for enlistment in the Armed Forces and
equal employment opportunities. Both of these recom-
mendations were acted upon by the committee as
indicated. The next meeting of the refugee advisory
group is scheduled for July 17th.
The committee is scheduled to meet again on July 23rd.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
PRESIDENT'S ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON REFUGEES
MEETING #3
June 25, 1975 10:00 a.m.
Room 4203 NEOB
AGENDA
A.
Introduction by Chairman Eisenhower
B.
Review of Minutes of Previous Meeting
C.
Future Meeting Schedule
July 23, 1975
August 20, 1975
September 24, 1975
D.
Dr. Ted Marrs
E.
Sponsorship
- Standards/Requirements
- Professional Organizations and Other
Non-Governmental Groups
Staff: Jim Delaney
- Youth Organizations
Ashby Boyle
Staff> David Morin
Pares
- Labor/Management
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
Leo Perlis (George Meany)
Staff: Jim Delaney
- Alternate Mechanisms for Processing
Non-VolAg Sponsorships (Recommendations)
Staff: Walt Kallaur
1000
Now
VAW, AFECIO
Teamster umw
F.
State and Local Sponsorship Program
Governor Dan Evans
Mayor Alioto
Mayor Ferre
Staff: Frank Daniel
G.
Report from Vietnamese/Cambodian Advisory Group
Dr. Tran Dinh De
Mr. Nguyen Ngoc Thu
Mrs. Pan Sothi
Miss Nguyen Quynh Hoa
Staff: Walt Kallaur
Bill Applegate
Issues: Military Service
Education
Legal Status
Telephone Service
H.
Publicity - Public Relations Program Plans
I.
Reports from Committee Members
J.
Report from American Anthropological Association
Dr. Ernestine Friedl, President
K.
Adjournment
CERALD CERALOR FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
PRESIDENT'S ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON REFUGEES
MEETING #3
June 25, 1975 10:00 : a.m.
Room 4203 NEOB
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A.
Minutes of Last Meeting
B.
Report on Public Interest Group Meeting
C.
Project FRIENDSHIP
D.
An Approach at Expanding Sponsorship
E.
State of Washington Program
F.
Letter to Governors and Mayors
G.
Report of the Vietnamese/Cambodian Advisory Group
H.
Proposal for the Establishment of a Counseling
and Guidance Service for Indo-China Refugees
I.
Resolution in Congressional Record & Newspaper Clippings
J.
American Anthropological Association
K.
Report to the Congress
GERALD R. FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
THE PRESIDENT'S ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON REFUGEES
MINUTES OF MEETING #2
Tuesday, June 3, 1975
Room 4203 New Executive Office Building
The Committee meeting convened at 10:00 a.m., Ambassador
John Eisenhower, Committee Chairman, presiding.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT:
Ambassador John S. D. Eisenhower
Archbishop Joseph L. Bernardin
Mr. Ashby Boyle
Dr. W. Sterling Cary
Mrs. Gaetana Enders
Mayor Maurice Ferre
Mr. Minor George
Mr. Philip Klutznick
Mr. William Kuhfuss
Mr. Clarke Reed
Dr. Malcolm C. Todd
Elder A. Theodore Tuttle
Mr. Henry Cunningham (Alternate for Mr. Edgar Kaiser)
Mr. Leo Perlis (Alternate for Mr. George Meany)
COMMITTEE MEMBERS ABSENT:
Mayor Joseph Alioto
John Denver
Governor Dan Evans
George Meany
Edgar Kaiser
STAFF PRESENT:
Roger D. Semerad, Executive Director of the Advisory Committee
Dr. Ted Marrs, Special Assistant to the President for Human
Resources
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
2
GUESTS PRESENT:
Julia V. Taft, Acting Director, Interagency Task Force
David Ford, I.A.T.F. Liaison with Advisory Commiteee
VOLUNTARY AGENCY REPRESENTATIVES:
Mr. John Edward McCarthy
Migration and Refugee Service
U. S. Catholic Conference
Mr. Jan Papanek
American Fund for Czechoslovak Refugees, Inc.
Dr. James Thomas
Immigration and Refugee Committee
Church World Service
Mr. Gaynor Jacobson
United HIAS Service, Inc.
Mr. T. K. Bagration
Tolstoy Foundation, Inc.
Mr. Merrill Herter
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service
Sidney Talisman
American Council for Nationalities Service
Jean McDaniels
International Rescue Committee, Inc.
1.
Opening Statement by Chairman Eisenhower
Chairman John Eisenhower convened the meeting at 10:00 a.m.
and gave a brief report on his visit to Camp Pendleton which
he described as a very heartening experience.
The Chairman reiterated the role and mission of the Committee,
namely (1) to inform the President and (2) to inform the
Voluntary Agencies (VOLAGS). In this connection he stressed
the importance of working closely with the VOLAGS. Since
the last meeting ten days ago, 4,000 refugees have been released.
We need to move faster. The situation on Guam is crowded with
the potential for serious difficulty increasing.
EERALO FORD
3
Chairman Eisenhower expressed particular interest in having
this meeting of the Committee brought up to date through
briefings by representatives of the Interagency Task Force
and of the VOLAGS.
2.
Review of Minutes of Previous Meeting
The Minutes of the previous meeting were distributed, reviewed
and unanimously approved.
3.
Schedule of Future Meetings
The Chairman proposed that future meetings of the Committee
be on an occasional basis as it is not an operational body.
It was agreed that the next meetings would be on June 25
and July 23, 1975. In the future, Committee Members will
be given at least 15 days advance notification of meetings.
It was the consensus of the group that in the future, the
Committee should meet through lunch into the afternoon to
permit full expression of views and discussion of the issues
involved.
4.
Interagency Task Force Report
Chairman Eisenhower introduced Julia V. Taft, Acting Director
of the Interagency Task Force. Mrs. Taft presented a report
bringing the Committee up to date on the activities of the
Task Force and review of major problem areas, as summarized
below.
Mrs. Taft's report highlighted the events of the past week
and statistics from each camp were given. The completion
of security clearances seems to be the biggest problem at
this time, but it is hoped that the backlog will soon be
broken. She stated that the major logistical endeavors
and patterns are working out and that there is some interest
shown in repatriation. Representatives of the United Nations
High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) are at each reception
center to counsel those refugees who wish to be repatriated.
Mrs. Taft reported on the progress of accumulating information
for the computer data base. It was announced that by the
end of the week a breakout would be made available to the
Committee.
FORD
BERALD
4
In looking ahead, Mrs. Taft stressed two points: (1) generating
widespread interest in the refugee program and (2) increasing
the number of sponsorship offers.
Mrs. Taft stated that ways must be found to improve and
expand orientation and an awareness of what American society
is all about to help eliminate any apprehension that some
refugees may be experiencing.
Some ideas that might provide a bridge of understanding would
be the distribution of books, magazines and films, and the
continuation of bilingual training and recreation. However,
life at the camps should not be made so comfortable that the
refugees will not want to leave.
A number of articles have been written about families who
have already been resettled which will be forwarded to the
reception centers so that the refugees who have not left yet
will have a better understanding of what awaits them.
Mrs. Taft also announced that a handbook outlining the details
of American life is being prepared for those refugees who will
resettle. HEW is presently working on a health benefits plan
which should cover all medical expenses incurred by the refugees.
5.
Voluntary Agencies Report
The Chairman introduced Mr. John E. McCarthy of the U. S.
Catholic Conference who presented a report on the activities
of the VOLAGS and expressed confidence that the VOLAGS can
successfully accomplish the job that is expected of them.
A discussion followed, during which various Committee Members
contributed constructive comments and suggestions designed
to assist the VOLAGS in achieving their objectives. Mr.
McCarthy, as Acting Chairman of the Committee on Refugees
and Migrants for the American Council of Voluntary Agencies,
stated that the Voluntary Agencies, representing the major
church and ethnic structure of the United States, had tradi-
tionally been the major force in implementing any refugee
resettlement program. He mentioned that since the end of
World War II these agencies had successfully resettled over
2,000,000 persons.
Each of the following VOLAG representatives were introduced
to the Committee by Mr. McCarthy and each gave a short report
on the activities of his organization.
FORD
5
Mr. Jan Papanek
American Fund for Czechoslovak Refugees, Inc.
Dr. James Thomas
Immigration and Refugee Committee
Church World Service
Mr. Gaynor Jacobson
United HIAS Service, Inc.
Mr. T. K. Bagration
Tolstoy Foundation, Inc.
Mr. Merrill Herter
Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service
Sidney Talisman
American Council for Nationalities Service
Jean McDaniels
International Rescue Committee, Inc.
The Voluntary Agencies individually and collectively attested
to their readiness to assist the Federal Government in the
resettlement program and to make every effort to secure housing
and jobs. The subject of job training was emphasized.
6. Plans for Refugee Input to the Advisory Committee
Dr. Marrs expressed concern that there is no visible input
from the Vietnamese and Cambodian people who are involved
in the resettlement. He suggested that the Committee should
arrange to have a cross section group of consultants of
American/Vietnamese, a panel of people who are reasonably
representative of the Vietnamese and Cambodian people.
Chairman Eisenhower spoke of bringing the four mayors of
the camps together to further refugee input to the Committee.
7.
Introduction of New Advisory Committee Staff
Roger Semerad introduced the following newly assigned members
of the Committee Staff:
James Delaney
Walter Kallaur
Frank Daniel
Noel Koch
David Morin
6
Mr. Semerad stated that the new staff is expected to be in
place this week with headquarters located in the New Executive
Office Building, Room 4013, telephone 456-7034. Mr. Semerad
urged the Committee Members and the VOLAGS to call the
Committee headquarters office for any information or help
which may be needed.
8. Discussion Period
The Chairman conducted a discussion relative to briefing
materials, sponsor guidelines, and required information for
the purpose of assuring a common understanding of the facts
pertaining to these areas, major problems involved and
possible solutions.
Mr. Perlis raised the subject of employment problems and the
necessity of having a united approach. He mentioned that
management and union people would know what the needs are.
There should be more education and information on this aspect.
It was suggested by Chairman Eisenhower that the staff
should get together with the Chamber of Commerce, National
Alliance of Businessmen and National Association of Manu-
facturers and organize ideas to stimulate jobs for the refugees
and to encourage responsive management and union teams to visit
the camps.
Dr. Cary requested more information on procedures for refugee
repatriation.
Elder Tuttle reported on a day visiting the Eglin Relocation
Center indicating that the camp is well organized with no
undue hardship.
Mr. Kuhfuss spoke on publicity and informing groups as to
how they should make their offer of sponsorship.
Mr. Klutznick outlined the advantages of TV programming.
Chairman Eisenhower: Organization news letters can be utilized
for appeals for sponsorship. Each organization should send
magazines, trying to distribute them among the camps on a ratio
basis.
Mr. Reed mentioned that productive people make jobs. The
American people need education of refugee capabilities. The
staff should gather information and help get it to the
American people. An official list is needed of VOLAGS.
Where do we contact them?
Dr. Marrs indicated that the VOLAG lists will be made available
as fast as possible.
4.0 FORD LIB
7
Mrs. Taft: One problem at reception center is in individuals
coming in unannounced and not getting to the agency where they
can be helped.
Mrs. Enders reported on her visits to the major offices of the
Voluntary Agencies in New York. She spent two days there and
found them "beautifully organized." Matching up of sponsors
and refugees is done in New York.
Mr. Klutznick: Biggest problem is getting the refugees
resettled and this can only be done by building up sponsor lists.
Archbishop Bernardin: There is an urgent need for sponsors.
Special appeal is now in process to interest parishes in
providing sponsors.
Chairman Eisenhower: The Committee should be a catalyst in
encouraging sponsorship. It's our major job.
Mr. Perlis: We shouldn't limit ourselves to voluntary agencies.
There are veterans organizations, womens organizations,
minority organizations
ask them to go back to their
community and ask citizens to work with their local agencies.
Mr. Klutznick: We agreed to do that at the last meeting but
the VOLAGS would like to get a national conference and create
a spirit.
Mr. George raised the subject of refugees hired before veterans.
This Committee has capability of getting time in local com-
munity on what we are trying to do. Perhaps by using TV time
on local stations, members could get people intheir communities
to sponsor and not lose sight of what America is all about.
Dr. Todd: We must develop a position that we can feed into
metropolitan America.
Mr. Reed spoke of illegal entries and bad press. It was
suggested that Members gather and send all good press articles
to Mr. Semerad for distribution.
Mr. McCarthy reassured the Committee that the VOLAGS can do the
job which needs to be done and the main theme is resettlement
and jobs. If sponsorship is handled at official level, it
can be controversial. People doing the resettlement have to be
concerned about their local community. Resettlement is simple;
it will work and can work. The relationship is good with the
Task Force. The Committee can help us in PR field with stories
on success.
GLRALD FORD
8
Mayor Ferre spoke of community involvement and gaining the
viewpoint of people already in the system.
Mrs. Taft: By the end of the week, we will be getting out
reimbursement guidelines. Also a full explanation of what
sponsorship is all about. Discussed the policy issue of
medical reimbursement and eligibility. She alerted the
Committee to summer vacations and the delay which might take
place in sponsorship.
Mayor Ferre expressed concern about Eglin Air Force Base. Some
refugees are coming into Miami without sponsorship. He talked
to 11 people coming from Eglin (on an airplane); they didn't
know why they were going to Miami and seemed terror-stricken.
There is apprehension on their part as they go from one area
to another. Sponsors should have a specific job for the refugee.
The refugees have a certain centripetal force, and little
colonies may form in different parts of the country. The
problem is going to come in resettling some people while there
are still a lot left. What do we do with the rest? Sooner or
later we must fact the reality of training people.
Mr. Ashby Boyle: Since there are a great number of young, I
would like to take the agencies that can help the youth and
coordinate them. I would like to have the okay of the
Committee. (There was general agreement.)
Elder Tuttle: Surely every organization represented in this
meeting has enough solid citizens to take the responsibility.
When we call on people to sacrifice, they will do it. We have
sponsors for all of our people (Mormons). However, it's
difficult to get clearance for the refugees. Mrs. Taft
suggested they go directly to INS.
Dr. Marrs: It is essential that the staff produce and coor-
dinate the agenda, background and material so that everyone
will be uniformly informed. Your plea for information is not
going to fall on deaf ears.
Adjournment: 12:05 p.m.
FORD
CENALD
B
THE WHITE HOUSE
WAS INGTON
June 23, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
Chairman Eisenhower and Members
President's Advisory Committee
on Refugees
FROM:
James J. Delaney
Deputy Director
SUBJECT:
Observations on
Organization" Meeting
The subject meeting was sponsored by DHEW on Thursday,
June 12. The purpose of the meeting was to inform
non-governmental organizations of the status of the
Indochinese refugee program and resettlement efforts.
It was also an open forum to elicit ideas and other
approaches to sponsorship and resettlement. Eighty
organizations were invited, with forty actually attending.
Attending the meeting in addition to those groups indi-
cated in the enclosure were:
Roger Semerad
Julia Taft
Don Wortman
Nancy Porter
Miss Porter served as the moderator of the meeting.
Both Don Wortman and Roger Semerad gave a brief descrip-
tion of their functions within the framework of the refugee
program. Mr. Semerad stressed the supportive and co-
operative aspects of the President's Advisory Committee
on Refugees (PACR) with the Interagency Task Force (IATF).
Mr. Wortman explained the duties of HEW in the Refugee
resettlement program. Mrs. Taft spoke at some length
of the functions and achievements of the Interagency
Task Force.
FORD
Page 2
Significant comment was made concerning the designation
of a lead agency (State or DHEW) for the Inter-Agency Task
Force. The unanimous opinion of the organizations which
spoke was that DHEW should have the lead in this effort.
In as much as virtually all attendees are closely affiliated
with or dependent upon DHEW for support, their feelings
can readily be understood.
A list of organizations, opinions, and observations is
attached as an enclosure for your information. They range
from those which were most germaine to some which could
be generously categorized as self-serving. My impression
was that the non-governmental organizations were interested
in the refugee program, however, predominantly in a social
science/research mode for either a source of additional
funding and/or the benefit of their constituent groups.
Of particular note were the comments of Mr. Norman Lourie
representing the National Conference of Social Welfare,
who delivered a strong statement rebutting the uncompli-
mentary news release of Senator Kennedy, in addition to
taking to task many of the less altruistic attending
organizations. If his views and approach to the refugee
problem correctly reflect those of his association, I
am most anxious to further discuss problems of mutual
interest with him.
I had the opportunity to also speak to Mr. Mike Gemmell
from National Association of Counties. They are most
interested in participating in the sponsorship program
as a county sponsoring activity. A meeting with this
Association will be scheduled during the week of 30 June.
More specific comments and questions of the attendees
are found in the enclosure.
The meeting, in itself, was productive and we should con-
tinue to monitor future meetings, however, insights, con-
cepts and organization ventilation are the real products
of such gatherings. I am prepared to discuss the above
in greater detail if desired and at your convenience.
FORD
MEMORANDUM
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
TO
:
Julia Taft
DATE: June 13, 1975
Don Wortman
Nancy Porter
FROM
:
Special Assistant for External Affairs
SUBJECT: My follow-up list to NGO meeting June 12
Thanks so much for giving your time to yesterday's NGO
meeting, and for supporting the idea of such a meeting.
Attached are the follow-up items from the meeting
(immediate "to-do's," ideas to explore, questions to
answer, and things to pursue with individual NGOs).
May I stress that in all follow-ups we include invited
NGOs, not just those that actually attended.
Additional intelligence
1. Norm Lourie is meeting with some Jewish groups in
New York today to energize them--he's got a strategy
for them and says if they move, others will follow.
2. Bill Pierce, Child Welfare League, called me after
the meeting. He says he thinks a lot of positive
things will happen and offers to help will come
from the meeting. He's going to suggest to the
National Assembly, NCOCY, and National Conference
of Social Welfare (to all of which many NGOs belong)
that they call a meeting of many of their member
agencies right away to discuss the development of a
"services and re-location package" which could be
used nationally and locally and which would bring
together under one umbrella a non-threatening way to
involve NGOs in total program. He wants to get a
feel right away if IATF and HEW would be receptive.
Attachments
CC: Adam Herbert
Frank Haendler
STATE FORD
Dave Ford
Ev Baumgartner
Becky Schergens
ENCLOSURE
A. Immediate Follow-up Items from NGO meeting, 6/12/75
"To-Do's"
1. Hold another meeting soon (and be sure all invitees
and attendees to 6/12 meeting are included in all
follow-up meetings).
2. Have regular meetings with NGOs.
3. Involve NGOs in planning process when and wherever
possible.
4. Mail to all a list of the expanded guidelines for
sponsors.
5. Telegram sent to Amb. Brown by Child Welfare League
et al -- never been answered -- re central registry
for children.
6. Continue on regular basis to disseminate information
to NGOs.
7. Meet with the public interest groups right away.
8. When White House makes decision about lead agency,
tell NGOs.
9. Publicize what AFL-CIO is doing.
10. Explore with United Way the PTA's suggestion that
United Way serve as lead umbrealla agency in 2,400
locations.
11. Ask all NGOs to send précis of their organization's
purpose and activity, location of chapters, etc.
compile in resource book for sponsors and refugees.
12. Send 2 new HEW press released on school district
reimbursement policy to all invitees and attendees.
FORD
BRALO
- 2 -
B. Ideas to Explore, Questions to be Answered, etc.
1. Identify NGOs by like areas of interest (education,
youth, aging, etc.) and get them meeting in
separate "task forces" to iron out mutual strategy,
problems, etc.
2. Several organizations expressed strong need to
provide professional social work counselling in
camps before regugees leave.
3. Capitalize on Georgetown University's new refugee
information center being staffed by Vietnamese
students (publicize and encourage similar centers).
4. Are VOLAGS using social workers at all?
5. Utilize public interest groups' communications
systems for State and local government sponsorship
effort.
6. Are the children in camps being interviewed in their
own language?
7. Who is setting the standards and what are they for
counselling refugees? (NASW's interest)
8. Can there be Asian representation on the President's
Committee?
9. Creation of a new-VOLAG of NGOs.
10. Role of State and local welfare agencies--what is
their role in serving as coordinating link among
sponsor, refugee, and community organizations?
11. How can community know in advance if refugees are
coming? Sponsor notify lead agency or coalition
groups? Feds notify contact NGO group or person?
12. Question of viable coordination mechanism at local
FORD
level--see Haendler, Schergens, Porter paper.
GERALD
- 3 -
C. Individual Organization Offers, Comments, etc.
1. The Center for the family, American Home Economics
Association, has individual members who have been
working in Vietnam, with the Baby lift, etc. as well
as skilled in family support--in addition to the
AHEA chapters' possible involvements (with 52,000
members). These individuals could be helpful vis a
vis extended family problems, etc.
2. Japanese American Citizens League wants to help in:
--American understanding of Vietnamese
--Providing Asian social workers for counselling
in camps
-Helping develop materials, etc. for sponsors on
Asian culture, etc.
3. Volunteers of America can help in various ways.
4. General Federation of Women's Clubs wants to help--
doesn't know how yet.
5. NACO offers its entire network and resources for
local government sponsorship effort.
6. American Association of Retired Persons would like
more facts and figures on aged refugees.
7. American Vocational Association would be interested
in helping HEW do contingency planning for vocational
training in camps.
8. Talk with AFL-CIO re ideas for local level involvement.
9. National Center for Voluntary Action could energize
welcome wagon concept.
RAALO FORD
Vietnamese Refugee Meeting
June 12, 1975
List of Organizations Invited
American National Red Cross
American Public Health Association
American Farm Bureau Federation
American Legion
American Jewish Committee
Association of Jr. Leagues
AMVETS
American Friends Service Committee
American Library Association
American Home Economics Association
American Vocational Association
American Public Welfare Association
AFL-CIO
American Association of Retired Persons
American Association of University Women
B'mai B'rith Women
Boy Scouts
Boys Clubs
Big Brothers
Council on Social Work Education
Cooperative League
Chamber of Commerce
Child Welfare League
Church Women United
Council of State Chambers of Commerce
Council on American Private Education
Council of Jewish Federations and Welfare Funds
Common Cause
Daughters of the American Revolution
Day Care and Child Development Council
Family Service Association of America
Four-H
Federation of Settlements
Goodwill Industries
General Federation of Women's Clubs
Girl Scouts
Girls Clubs
Hadassah
International Brotherhood of Teamsters
Japanese American Citizens League
League of Women Voters
FORD & 078839 LIBRARY
Leadership Conference on Civil Rights
Invitees Continued
National Council on the Aging
National Council of Senior Citizens
National Council of Negro Women
National Association for Mental Health
National Association of Retarded Citizens
National Assembly
National Urban Coalition
National Urban League
National Jewish Welfare Board
National liealth Council
National Grange
National Education Association
National Councils of Organizations for Children & Youth
National Council of Jewish Women
National Congress of Parents and Teachers Association
National Conference on Social Welfare
National Center for Voluntary Action
National Association of Social Workers
National Association of Neighborhood Health Centers
National Alliance of Business Men
National Association of Manufacturers
National Business League
National Small Business Association
National Conference of Christians and Jews
National Council of Churches
National Council of LaRaza
NAACP
Public Affairs Council
Planned Parenthood
Salvation Army
United Way
U.S. Jaycees
Volunteers of America
Veterans of Foreign Wars
Women In Community Service
YMCA
YWCA
Young President's Organization
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$750
C
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 25, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
CHAIRMAN EISENHOWER
MEMBERS, PRESIDENT'S ADVISORY
COMMITTEE ON REFUGEES
FROM:
ASHBY BOYLE
DAVID MORIN
SUBJECT:
PROPOSAL FOR INVOLVING NATIONAL
YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS IN THE
ADJUSTMENT OF REFUGEE YOUTH IN
THE AMERICAN COMMUNITY
"Sixty-five percent of those who are coming are young people
they desire the warmth and the friendship which is typical of
America.
"
President Gerald Ford on the
occasion of signing the Executive
Order establishing the President's
Advisory Committee on Refugees.
Project FRIENDSHIP is proposed as a cooperative national project
of the President's Advisory Committee on Refugees and various
national youth leaders of America is the channel through
which the young people of America can help this nation's
effort to:
GERALD FORD
2
1.
Easing the cultural adjustment the refugee young
people will need help in making, and
2. Assisting overall the general well-being of young
resettled refugees as they leave the camps to join
their new American communities.
The machinery for the resettlement and sponsorship of the
refugees has already been constructed. But getting refugees
out of camps is only our first step. Once established in
communities, the refugees will still need support before they
can effect the goal of their assimilation into the mainstream
of American life.
Objective
By extending the understanding hearts and particularly group
acceptance, the youth groups of America, such as the Boy
Scouts, the Future Business Leaders of America, and other
organizations - religious, service, and social in nature -
can give the newly settled young Southeast Asians a sense
of belonging. Such organizations can also provide a
circle of friends and acquaintances these youth will need
for navigating their way into the culture of young America.
Plan of Action
Project FRIENDSHIP will be in the hands of the chairmen and
presidents of some forty national youth organizations across
the country. Those national youth chairmen supportive of
Project FRIENDSHIP would be expected to see that the state
and local chapters of their organizations were extending a
hand of fellowship to young refugees settled within the
chapter's local geographic jurisdiction. Expected in said
hand of fellowship would be a cordial invitation of member-
ship into the particular organization and to attempt to assess
the needs of the refugees and to use available resources
toward meeting those needs.
It is not intended that Project FRIENDSHIP assist in sponsor-
ship or any other concern of an economic nature. Project
FRIENDSHIP will strive for social, educational, and cultural
assistance to the refugee youth. In determining what assistance
each organization can give, a form letter with a return page
of various helps that could be offered by the organization
will be mailed out to all prospective helping organizations.
FORD
BRALD
3
Resources and Needs
For Project FRIENDSHIP to be a success, wide acceptance and
support on the part of major youth organizations is desperately
needed. To gain this support, extensive mailing and other
forms of communicating Project FRIENDSHIP and the urgent
need of American youth involvement in refugee assimilation
into American society will also be needed. Those national
youth organizations which have news publications will be
very helpful in communicating Project FRIENDSHIP, but getting
across what Project FRIENDSHIP is, and how each organization
and members of each organization can help in Project FRIENDSHIP
is a major task. Perhaps the best solution in this explanatory
effort is to have a brief twenty minute film made on Project
FRIENDSHIP and then have it widely circulated throughout the
nation. The film could best communicate ways on how to be
creative in developing programs and friendship drives to
make the transition of refugee youth into America as easy as
possible.
To develop ideas on how to have effective friendship drives
and meaningful programs on American society, culture, and
language, a conference with the national youth leaders
participating in workshops and seminars might be held this
summer. It would also serve as a vehicle for direct contact
with the young leaders we will be working with throughout
the completion of Project FRIENDSHIP.
Goals and Benefits
The goal of Project FRIENDSHIP is simple: Be a friend. How
to be a friend, however, is not SO simple. Much planning,
thought, and effective communication is required for this
mass effort to be a success. But, if successful, the involve-
ment of American youth in the Southeast Asian refugee
resettlement could make the transition of these refugees
into American society more gracious and efficient than perhaps
any other immigrant has ever had to step foot on American soil.
Role of Committee
Project FRIENDSHIP is a cooperative project between the
President's Advisor Committee on Refugees and various national
youth organizations. There is expected - outside of the cost
of mail, phone and occasional in person (travel) expenses -
to be no or little financial expense to the Government.
FORD
GERALD
4
Contact with select youth groups to date indicate they consider
this arrangement feasible and acceptable. Hence, the role
of the President's Committee in Project FRIENDSHIP will be
primarily that of providing the leadership and information
to the youth groups involved.
Role of Youth Groups
Once provided with information of relocated refugees, the
national youth organizations involved would contact their
local chapters. Keeping an eye open to the other groups
also working locally, the local chapter would then determine -
after contact with the refugees - how best it could assist.
Timetable
It is expected that it will not be until the opening of school
in the fall that youth organizations themselves will be
sufficiently organized to begin work on Project FRIENDSHIP.
Hence, this summer will be spent in preparing youth organiza-
tions to begin in the fall. Duration of the program is hard
to pinpoint. However, once the youth organizations begin
to work on Project FRIENDSHIP the only assistance from the
Committee they will need is that of information.
Youth Groups to be Involved
We expect upwards of forty youth groups, representing over
two million members, to be ultimately involved in Project
FRIENDSHIP. These will each make their own independent
contribution to the Project in whatever way they decide.
Groups will be service religious, vocational, or social in
nature.
Tendency of National Youth Groups Towards a Coordinated
National Project Such as Project FRIENDSHIP
There has been nothing of the scope of Project FRIENDSHIP
before, however, the inevitability of such a joint, coordinated
project of national youth organizations has long been considered
and even hoped for by many national youth organizations.
Therefore, Project FRIENDSHIP's timing is very good and
responses towards the proposed role of the youth organizations
has been very positive.
FORD
079830
5
Pilot Proposal
We propose that during the remaining summer months pilot
projects be started. Since the beginning of school in the
fall is a most organizationally effective time to officially
"kick-off" Project FRIENDSHIP, we will have until then to
conceptually perfect Project FRIENDSHIP. Specifically, it
is our intention to work closely and begin now in the State
of Arkansas with a pilot version of Project FRIENDSHIP.
Arkansas is unusually plentiful with active youth groups and
is also the site of the Chaffee Relocation Center.
Public Relations Value of Project FRIENDSHIP for the President's
Advisory Committee
Unfortunately, the media image of young people in America is
often one of the "hippie-ish, long-haired, anti-establishment,
pro-drug" etc. type. This image is entirely inconsistent
with what the reality of a typical American youth is. By
creating a project - at its heart supportive of the President's
decision of the refugees - that would involve millions of
the "solid citizen's" of young America - the Committee would
not only have a valuable, visible source of support but would
also be holding up a picture of American youth far more
praiseworthy than ever gets recognized.
&
FORD
97V6
FOROO
&
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 24, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
CHAIRMAN EISENHOWER
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
FROM:
ROGER D. SEMERAD
RRS
SUBJECT:
AN APPROACH AT EXPANDING
SPONSORSHIP
Proposal
That the Task Force authorize direct sponsorship by indi-
viduals, groups of individuals, or organizations by utilizing
the American Red Cross to verify or screen sponsorship offers.
Explanations
This approach envisions the utilization of the American Red
Cross to perform verification of sponsorship offers. This
could be accomplished without disruption of the current
operation of the Volunteer Agencies.
This approach would acknowledge that some individuals who
wish to sponsor a family cannot in all cases accomplish the
sponsorship alone. However, if an individual wanted to
participate as a sponsor he or she would be encouraged to
(1) organize a group of friends or business associates
in order to collectively offer sponsorship, or,
(2) make his or her individual or specialized offer
known to the Red Cross chapter so that the Red Cross could
attempt to assemble the necessary parts of a sponsorship
package.
In the case of sponsorship offer from an individual or a
group, the Red Cross would verify:
1. The good character and reputation of the sponsor (s).
2. That the sponsor (s) is aware of the implications
and requirements of sponsorship.
SERALD FORD
If the local Red Cross chapter is satisfied that the indivi-
dual or group is capable of a successful sponsorship effort,
it would notify the Interagency Task Force of the valid
sponsorship offer including:
1. Size of family that could be sponsored.
2. Characteristics of family.
3. Employment (a specific offer--or employment opportuni-
ties in the community).
4. Other information as required by the Task Force.
This information could be made available to the Camp Civil
Coordinators in order for the match to be made. Once the
match is made notification could be made through the Red
Cross.
In case of incomplete or partial offers, the local Red Cross
chapter could collect offers of assistance until a complete
sponsorship offer could be developed. Then the offer would
be processed as outlined earlier.
This procedure has the strength of developing and utilizing
comprehensive sponsorship offers at the local level.
Role of the Advisory Committee
The Committee may take a lead role in explaining the need
for additional sponsors by:
1. Emphasizing that the designated volunteer agencies
need the additional support and,
2. Offering the alternative approach through the Red Cross.
This approach has been discussed and tentatively approved
by the Red Cross.
CERÁLO FORD
/
STATE
THE 3372. Dr R THE
1154
STATE OF WASHINGTON
OFFICE or THE GOVERNOR
OLYMPIA
DANIEL J. EVANS
GOVERNOR
VIETNAMESE REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT PROGRAM
In late April, Governor Daniel Evans was contacted by the United
States State Department about the possible relocation of up to 500 Vietnamese
refugees in the State of Washington. The refugees were among several thou-
sand being temporarily housed at Camp Pendleton, California. The Governor
had previously indicated the state's willingness to participate in the
resettlement effort and, at a scheduled news briefing on May 8, 1975,
announced his intention to bring the refugees gradually into the State of
Washington.
Before making the formal public announcement, Governor Evans appointed
Tom Pryor, director of the State Department of Emergency Services, overall
coordinator of the newly created Washington State Vietnamese Refugee Re-
settlement Project. A Vietnamese Assistance Center was immediately es-
tablished in the Camp Murray National Guard Armory near Tacoma, Washington.
Temporary living units for the refugees were made available at the National
Guard facility by refurbishing 10 cottages, designed to house à maximum of
100 refugees, on the 300-acre site. Within days after the Governor's
announcement to the people of the State of Washington, the Vietnamese
Assistance Center was prepared to house the first group of refugees from
Camp Pendleton.
Three Washington State agencies became directly involved in the re-
FORD & LIBRARY
settlement of the refugees. The Department of Emergency Services assumed
(more)
-2-
the responsibility for maintaining and coordinating activities at the
Vietnamese Assistance Center and the cluster of cottages that became the
refugee camp. The Department of Social and Health Services was desig-
nated to recruit, screen and assign American sponsors to each refugee
family, and DSHS personnel were temporarily assigned to the center to
determine the specific social and economic needs of each refugee family
as well. The Department of Employment Security was called upon to inter-
view the head of each refugee household for complete employment history
evaluation and possible Job placement once housing was secured.
L. Dean Brown, director of the President's Indochina Interagency
Task Force, informed the Governor by telegram that all costs to the state
for resettlement, to include health, income maintenance and social serv-
ices, would be reimbursed by the federal government.
Washington State Department of Emergency Services
Once the formal announcement of refugee resettlement was made by
the Governor, Pryor detached à staff representative from his office and
& representative from the Department of Social and Health Services to
Camp Pendleton to assist in the processing of the 500 refugees that
would gradually be arriving in the state. An invitation was issued by
the state's representatives to refugees quartered in one of the eight
"tent cities" established at Camp Pendleton. Within two hours well over
1,000 refugees applied for permanent placement in Washington State. The
selection of 500 of the 1,000 applicants was made at random and trans-
portation plans were made to bring them to the state in groups of 100.
(more)
ULRALD FORD LIBA
-3-
Personnel from Emergency Services, working in cooperation with
the Office of the Governor, the Salvation Army, Washington National
Guard, American Red Cross and other community agencies, supply the
refugees temporarily housed at Camp Murray with food, laundry facili-
ties, recreation equipment, transportation, security, staff support,
medical assistance and general resettlement counseling.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services
Each Vietnamese family receives an American sponsoring family
or organization before its departure from Camp Murray. Sponsors are
being recruited to meet specific needs of adjustment for the Viet-
namese as they settle permanently in the state. Social and Health
Services personnel in public assistance offices were alerted to pro-
cess inquiries for sponsorship from individuals and organizations
(church, comunity and civic groups).
The types of sponsorships needed are as follows:
1. Those that provide complete support; i.e., subsistence.
housing assistance and employment;
2. Moral support -- taking the role of à friend in helping
to locate employment, housing and community resources;
3. Contributions of specific goods and/or services.
Refugees with insufficient incomes or resources to meet their
needs can apply for direct assistance (financial, medical and related
social services) in the Vietnamese Center at Camp Murray. Once the
refugee family is placed with a sponsor, all records are transferred
to the public assistance office nearest their new permanent home and
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
(more)
-4-
sponsor. Each office has also designated a caseworker to work with
sponsors and refugee families throughout the resettlement process.
In all cases it has been made very clear that à sponsor has no legal
responsibility for the refugee. Sponsors may also designate à time
frame during which sponsorship will be assumed. A significant majority
of the refugees currently at the camp and those who are awaiting trans-
fer from Camp Pendleton are skilled administrators, craftsmen, pro-
fessionals and clerical support personnel. It is not anticipated
that they will remain on assistance for an extended period of time.
Washington State Department of Employment Security
Refugees who were employed while in Vietnam are being thoroughly
interviewed by Employment Security counselors assigned to the Assistance
Center during the resettlement program. A complete history is developed
for each refugée interviewed to determine past employment experience
and specific job skills. Counselors at the center also assist refugees
with professional backgrounds in compiling resumes and help them pre-
pare for job interviews.
Minority employment organizations, such as the Asian Placement
Service, and volunteers are soliciting employers for jobs. Employment
Security counselors are making every effort to match refugee skills
with existing job listings and encouraging industrial employers to
make positions available to qualified refugees.
Employment Security staff representatives estimate that approxi-
mately 30 jobs will be needed to support the 500 refugees coming to the
state.
FORD & GERALD LIBRARY
(more)
-5-
Washington State Vietnamese Refugee Resettlement Progress
From May 20 to June 7 there have been 40 Vietnamese families
(150 refugees) placed in communities across Washington State. As a
general rule, a family is placed in close proximity to another Viet-
namese family for comfort and security. The news media have been
particularly cooperative in the recruitment of potential sponsors and
employment for the refugees through public service announcements and
news coverage.
###
UP DATE AS OF 6/19
75 1n camp
338 placed w/sponsors
413 total arrivals
LIBRARY GERALD R. FORD
Dear
On May 19, 1975, President Ford appointed a seventeen
member advisory committee to assist him in resettling the
Indochina refugees. These families are presently located
at military camps here and on Guam. Most have arrived with
little more than the clothes on their backs.
As a nation of immigrants, we have a historical commit-
ment to these immigrants. As allies of the Indochinese in
a long and tragic war, we have a moral obligation to them.
The task of resettlement must not and need not be an
occasion for prolonging the fear, uncertainty and despair
which have clouded the lives of these people for so long.
Their number is small, their needs are minimal. But if the
job is to be done, it will depend upon the good will of all
Americans, and the direct assistance of some.
In order to move these refugees out of the camps and into
our national life, it will be necessary to obtain sponsors
for them. Families, civic groups and institutions may all
sponsor refugee families as described in the enclosed folder.
The burden of sponsorship can be eased, however, and sponsor-
ship encouraged if state and local agencies are committed to
assist in this endeavor. I am enclosing the details of the
settlement program undertaken by Governor Evans in Washington.
It is simple, comprehensive, easily implemented, and effective.
SEALD R. FORD
Obviously,
would have to tailor a plan to fit
its own unique administrative structure and its resources.
I urge you to give consideration to developing a program
to help meet this critical need. The Federal Government can
and will provide you with full assistance.
Alternate (Mr./Mrs.
of
is a
member of the President's Advisory Committee, and will be at
your disposal to provide whatever guidance or assistance
might be of value in hastening the day when the refugees of
Indochina are citizens of the United States.)
I am confident that the President can count on you and
the people of
for your help in the resettlement
effort.
Sincerely,
John S. D. Eisenhower
Chairman
President's Advisory Committee
on Refugees
CERALO R. FORD
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 24, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
CHAIRMAN EISENHOWER
COMMITTEE MEMBERS
FROM:
ROGER D. SEMERAD
This
SUBJECT:
REPORT OF THE VIETNAMESE/CAMBODIAN
ADVISORY GROUP MEETING, JUNE 19, 1975
The purpose of the Vietnamese/Cambodian Advisory Group meeting
was to acquaint the Committee with the observations and recom-
mendations of a representative cross section of the Vietnamese
and Cambodian population in the United States. Of the seventeen
Vietnamese and Cambodian participants at the meeting, nine had
been processed through the Stateside refugee camps; the others
had either departed in advance of the mass evacuation or were
long-term residents of the United States. Fifteen of the par-
ticipants were Vietnamese and two were Cambodian.
The participants were fluent in English and would be characterized
as members of the professional class. The group was concerned
that the needs of the poorer and less well educated refugees must
also be considered and suggested the broadening of the social
base of the advisory group.
This report presents an abstract of the discussion by the Advisory
Group of each particular problem or issue, followed by the solu-
tion recommended by the Advisory Group. Where appropriate, the
recommendation also indicates Committee staff comments.
Copies of this report, minutes of the Advisory Group meeting, and
any decisions or instruction of the Committee will be transmitted
to the Interagency Task Force.
I. Refugee Processing/Camp Life
Discussion
The Vietnamese/Cambodian advisory group indicated an area in need
of immediate attention concerned the initial phases of resettle-
ment. There was general agreement that there was an overall
lack of coordination and insufficient information available for
GERALD FORD LIBRARY
2
the benefit of the refugees. This lack of information has resulted
in considerable confusion and anxiety about the resettlement
program. Additionally, there is considerable apprehension on
the part of the camp inhabitants in that they are not aware of
the opportunities, nor of what they can expect upon being
placed with a sponsor.
It was also noted that there was a credibility problem in terms
of the public information effort of the volunteer agencies and
the Task Force. The basic criticism was that there was no
authoritative source for making official policy pronouncements.
The Task Force had been relying upon the voluntary agencies
to disseminate the information throughout the camps and the
refugees are skeptical as to the accuracy of the information
that has been disseminated.
Comments about food at the camps indicated that in some cases
the food was not properly prepared and not compatible with
Vietnamese or Cambodian diets.
There is too much idle time at the camps which could be put to
use in constructive programs to prepare the refugees for re-
settlement. Any such programs would also have a positive effect
on the morale of the refugees.
Advisory Group Recommendation
- That communication and information dissemination be standardized
and improved within the camps, especially on items which
directly affect the refugees' future.
- That a single authoritative source be established for the
purpose of providing information to the refugees.
- That camp residents be hired or volunteers be sought to prepare
food and to assist the supply officers in determining which
food items would be most compatible.
Staff Comment
Considerable progress has been made in the public information
program for the refugees. Each camp makes available a daily
newspaper and the Task Force has recently completed a bilingual
orientation booklet that will be distributed to both refugees
and sponsors.
CERALE R. FORD
3
II. Volunteer Agencies/Sponsorship
Discussion
It was noted that numerous refugees who had sponsors were still
in camps because of problems in security clearances, health
checks, etc. In some cases the sponsorship offers have been
pending for weeks.
The participants were concerned about the lack of uniformity in
terms of the processing and procedural standards of the various
volunteer agencies, the types of assistance afforded to the
refugees, and the dollar amounts expended on behalf of the refugees.
Lack of follow-up by the volunteer agencies subsequent to place-
ment was noted. This follow-up would involve additional work
on behalf of the refugee and the sponsor that is not specifically
requested by either the refugee or the sponsor. Knowledge of
this lack of follow-up or "sponsor guarantee" has led to reluctance
on the part of some refugees to accept sponsorship.
The question was asked: Could provisions be made for a pass-through
of funds directly to the sponsor where there is direct sponsorship
and no voluntary agency participation? Specifically, may the
financial amount authorized to the VOLAG ($500 per individual)
be directly allocated to the refugee family and sponsor in those
cases where there is no direct participation or intermediary
sponsorship or support by the voluntary agencies?
Advisory Group Recommendation
- That VOLAGS streamline their placement programs in order to
avoid delays in those cases in which a sponsor has been
identified.
- That the voluntary agencies be urged to standardize benefits
in terms of what they offer the refugee families.
- That VOLAGS be encouraged to follow-up on all placements.
- That the requirements and duties of sponsorship be more clearly
explained.
Staff Comment
In the past, processing delays had been due in part to delays in
securing security clearances. According to the IATF, security
clearances are no longer a cause of delay. With reference to the
pass-through of funds directly to the sponsor/refugee, a modified
pass-through of funds is contemplated in the Red Cross sponsorship
verification proposal.
GERALO R. FORD
4
III. Education/Language/Vocational Training
Discussion
It was noted that the language training and orientation in camps
has been done primarily by American volunteer teachers and that
this instruction has not been sufficient. The language diffi-
culties of the mass of refugees will not be significantly helped
by these generally haphazard voluntary efforts.
The less educated refugees will be faced with the prospect of
an uneasy resettlement unless they are better prepared.
Advisory Group Recommendations
- That a two- or three-month intensive language program be funded.
- That intensive, professionally-run, English language and
cultural orientation classes be set up to provide:
a) language training for adults to build their confidence
and knowledge for daily living,
b) technical language training for particular occupations, and
c) language training and other appropriate classes for
children who will enter elementary or secondary schools
in the fall.
Also, some special consideration need be given for home economics
type training for mothers and other women in terms of educating
them in pertinent American cultural standards.
- That some of the children be sent to summer camps so that they
may associate with American children and more readily learn
the language and American culture.
- That vocational orientation and training programs be set up
in the camps to provide thorough preparation for resettlement
of less educated and the unskilled.
IV. Legal Status/Employment/Eligibility for Various Governmental
Program/Military Duty/Family Reunification
Discussion
There was considerable discussion as to the eligibility of parolees
and permanent resident aliens for numerous governmental programs:
business loans, housing loans, employment assistance, and other
programs.
FORD
5
Since employment restrictions are in some cases applicable for
parolees, but not for permanent resident aliens, can anything
be done to accelerate the transition of the refugees to permanent
resident aliens?
It was also noted that significant numbers of the refugees are
unmarried males of military age. These men could face significant
problems in receiving sponsorship and useful vocational training.
Many refugees are concerned about the location and status of their
relatives in other countries.
Advisory Group Recommendations
- That enlistment in armed forces be made available as an alter-
native to current sponsorship procedures.
- That representatives of the Office of Minority Business Enter-
prise, the Small Business Administration (HEW), Office of
Education (HEW), Social Rehabilitation Service (HEW), Social
Security (HEW), Department of Housing and Urban Development,
and the Department of Defense be invited to the next meeting
to be available to answer questions to explain the assistance
that is available to the refugees and that this information be
distributed to both the camps and resettled refugees.
- That information be made available concerning those skill
categories for which there is a demand in the United States.
- That information on the parole status on family members in
third countries, as well as in Vietnam and Cambodia, be made
available to the refugees in U.S. processing centers.
Staff Comment
The suggestion that military service be made available as an
alternative to sponsorship is particularly noteworthy.
V. Other Items
A. Self-Help Programs/Communities
Would there be any governmental financial support available for
any farming or fishing communities or any self-help programs that
could be established to take care of large numbers of refugees?
B. Housing
In terms of housing and the availability of housing, considerable
comments centered around the fact that the Federal and local
governments hold title to numerous housing units. These units
&
FORD
GRALD
LIBRA,
6
are vacant, non-productive, and may be well utilized as temporary
housing on a rent-free or some other basis by the refugees.
This involves a short-term commitment with the understanding
that the expenses and the costs of upgrading the housing would
be borne by the sponsor or the refugee.
Staff Comment
Both questions are under review by the Committee staff and the
Interagency Task Force.
R. FORD
H
PROPOSAL
for the establishment of a
COUNSELING and GUIDANCE service
for Indo-China Refugees.
Definition of the Problem
Most refugees are having varying degrees of frustration in
their efforts to adapt to American society, particularly those
without any previous experience of American life. Those still in
the camps worry about sponsors, jobs, schools, housing, and the
cold climate. Those already outside the camp are confused about
the responsibility of the sponsor, and many sponsors are just as
misinformed and confused as the refugees themselves; because the
guidance received from government agencies has not been adequate.
In fact many government employees, especially at the local level,
are also unaware of the welfare benefits available for refugees.
Consequently, despite tremendous efforts and goodwill, there is a
good deal of frustration and difficulty on all sides.
Scope of the Proposal
Some form of counseling and guidance should be made available
free of charge to refugees to help them make a smooth transition
to American society. This proposal is for a limited counseling
service on some specific problems. The service would be conducted
primarily by telephone, toll-free, and by mailing of prepared
answers to the more common questions. These forms of counseling
would be supported by a network of pre-arranged referral services,
for the more complex problems.
Time Frame
The service would be organized with a view to providing help
over a period of one to three years, depending on the need.
Organization and Functions
A private, non-profit entity would be created. It might be
funded by a campaign for private donations, or might seek
government funding. It would have a limited direct-hire staff,
supported by voluntary workers and by contract services as
necessary.
This organization would:
- answer telephone and mail inquiries from refugees,
sponsors, and others, in English, Vietnamese, or
Khmer
- do research on specific problems
FORD
CRALD
-2-
- arrange for a referral service as necessary in
different parts of the country, and make referrals.
Facilities Required
- Toll free telephones with adequate lines
- Typing and copying facilities
- Office space in Washington, D.C.
Personnel Required
- 1 staff director
- 1 deputy
- 3 telephonists
- 5 researchers and aides
- - 2 administrative assistants
12
Funding Required
Assuming that only the staff director and his deputy, plus
the telephonists, would need to be paid, and that most referral
services could be obtained on a volunteer basis, funding required
should not exceed $250,000 a year. If funding is limited or
uncertain, the service could be started on the basis of a limited
list of problems dealt with, and by working exclusively on a
volunteer basis for referral services.
List of Problem Areas to be Covered (some or all)
- health care, health insurance
- employment opportunities and qualifications
- welfare availability
- education, including language and vocational training
- legal problems
- organization of small businesses
- immigration and naturalization
R.
FORD
BRALD
-3-
housing
- discrimination, civil rights, public hostility.
CESALO R. FORD
S 10878
CONGRESSIONAL RECORD-SENATE
June 18, 1975
I believe this is a good, fair, bipartisan
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate
camps. This will require sponsors. It will
Commission. It is functioning well. It
hereby is authorized and directed to pay,
require the assistance of government at
needs the support of Congress, and I
from the contingent fund of the Senate, to
support this bill.
Inez C. Buokley, widow of Wilburn Buckley,
the State and local levels. It will require
an employee of the Senate at the time of his
the assistance of civic and church groups.
Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, I am
death, a sum equal to one year's compen-
And it will require the leadership and
pleased that the Rules Committee has
sation at the rate he was receiving by law
the encouragement especially of the
approved the legislation that Senator
at the time of his death, said sum to be con-
Members of Congress.
HUGH SCOTT and I introduced last April
sidered inclusive of funeral expenses and all
The Federal Government and the
to extend the life of the Federal Election
other allowances.
American people have joined in a reset-
Commission.
tlement program of unprecedented mag-
The committee's action is a welcome
RESOLUTION URGING ALL AMERI-
nitude. The Government has mobilized
vote of confidence in the Commission. In
its resources to provide for the well-
CANS TO ASSIST IN THE RE-
spite of the birth pains and the substan-
beings of the refugees. The response from
tial delay in getting off the ground earlier
SETTLEMENT OF INDOCHINESE
citizens has been more than generous.
this year, the Commission is now op-
REFUGEES
The performance of the voluntary reset-
erating in high gear and is moving quick-
Mr. HUGH SCOTT. Mr. President, on
tlement agencies has been magnificent
and effectively to meet its heavy re-
behalf of myself and the distinguished
There must be effective channels de-
sponsibilities in connection with the 1976
majority leader I send to the desk a reso-
veloped so that generous offers of spon-
elections. By acting now to extend the
lution and ask for its immediate consid-
sorship and assistance are effectively
Commission through the end of 1976, the
eration.
transmitted to the refugee camps. Gov-
Senate can give the Commission the free-
The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem-
ernors and mayors can and should pro-
dom and authority it needs to perform its
pore. The clerk will state the resolution
vide the coordination of volunteer groups
central role as an independent agency,
by title.
in their States and cities with the refu-
free of partisan influence in the critical
The legislative clerk read as follows:
gee camps.
election months ahead.
A resolution (S. Res. 187) to urge all Ameri-
The response of the people has been
Of course, there is still a cloud over the
cans to assist in the resettlement of the Indo-
magnificent and governments at every
Commission-the current litigation ques-
chinese refugees.
level must assure that the promises be-
tioning the constitutionality of the Elec-
The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem-
come reality.
tion Reform Act of 1974, including the
pore. Is there objection to the immediate
President, hope that my resolu-
powers of the Commission. However,
consideration of the resolution?
tion will be agreed to:
argument on the case has already been
held in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the
There being no objection; the Senate
The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ques-
District of Columbia. As a result, it seems
proceeded to consider the resolution.
tion is on agreeing to the resolution
Mr. HUGH SCOTT. Mr. President, the
The resolution (S. Res. 187) was agreed
likely that the issues will be ready for a
resolution I have submitted on behalf of
to
Supreme Court hearing in the fall, with
myself and the distinguished majority
The preamble was agreed to
a final decision expected by the end of the
leader urging all Americans to assist in
The resolution, with its preamble,
year.
the resettlement of Indochinese refugees.
reads as follows
In the meantime, the action of the
In April of this year, the U.S. role in
SENATE RESOLUTION 187
Rules Committee, extending the life on
Vietnam came to an end, and we assumed
the Commission, is a welcome reaffirma-
Whereas, the United States of America
an obligation to the Vietnamese and the
been. from its earliest days, B haven and 8
tion of our support for the agency we
Cambodian refugees who chose life and
refuge for the poor, the oppressed, the dis-
created to implement the landmark elec-
liberty in America.
possessed, and those seeking to lead a life of
tion reform legislation passed last fall. I
Congress has chosen to appropriate
independence in a land of liberty: and,
hope that the Senate will approve this
Whereas, the United States is now host to
nearly a half billion dollars for the re-
important legislation.
the tragic remnants of the suffering in Indo-
settlement of the refugees. But certainly
Mr. MANSFIELD. Mr. President, I ask
china; and,
our obligation in this matter is not dis-
unanimous consent that the amendments
Whereas, the task of assisting those refu-
charged simply with a vote on a money
gees is one which cannot be successfully BC-
be considered en bloc.
bill. The success of the resettlement pro-
complished unless it is broadly attempted by
The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem-
gram will depend ultimately not on how
all of our people;
pore. Without objection, the amendments
much money we spend; but on how much
Now, therefore be it resolved, that it is the
are considered and agreed to en bloc.
of ourselves we spend. It will depend
sense of the Senate that State and local gov-
The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem-
ernments, with the assistance of voluntary
upon how much the people of this great
resettlement agencies and local voluntary
pore. The bill is open to further amend-
Nation of immigrants give of themselves
and civic organizations, should join with the
ment. If there be no amendment
in the task of assimilating the refugees
Federal government in assuming responsi-
to be proposed, the question is on the
into our national life.
bility for the sponsorship; resettlement and
engrossment and third reading of the
We hear doubts from some quarters
assimilation of Indochinese refugees into
bill.
about the wisdom and the rightness of
American communities.
The bill was ordered to be engrossed for
bringing these refugees to our shores.
a third reading, was read the third time,
There are some who worry that jobs
NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
and passed.
will be lost to refugees. There are others
APPROPRIATIONS
AUTHORIZA-
who fear the influence of alien views
TION, 1976
CLARA G. CAGIWA
and culture in their neighborhoods. And
there are those who resent them sim-
Mr. MANSFIELD. Mr. President, I
The resolution (S. Res. 186) to pay a
ply because they are Vietnamese and
ask the Chair to lay before the Senate
gratuity to Clara G. Cagiwa was con-
Cambodians, and thus & part of a trau-
a message from the House of Represent-
sidered and agreed to, as follows:
matic experience which scarred our na-
atives on H.R. 4723.
Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate
tional life for more than a decade.
The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem-
hereby is authorized and directed to pay,
Such doubts and fears are under-
pore laid before the Senate a message
from the contingent fund of the Senate, to
Clara G. Cagiwa, widow of Bernard G.
standable, perhaps. But I believe that
from the House of Representatives an-
Cagiwa, an employee of the Architect of the
finally. such doubts and fears are be-
nouncing its disagreement to the amend-
Capitol assigned to duty in the Senate office
neath a people who are themselves de-
ment of the Senate to the bill (H.R.
buildings at the time of his death, & sum
scendants of refugees. And I believe
4723) authorizing appropriations to the
equal to ten months' compensation at the
that when asked, Americans will respond
National Science Foundation for fiscal
rate be was receiving by law at the time of
to the need to move over and make room
year 1976. and requesting a conference
his death, said sum to be considered inclusive
for these people. We did not become
with the Senate on the disagreeing votes
of funeral expenses and all other allowances.
great by being selfish. or by being fright-
of the two Houses thereon.
ened of the new and different, or by turn-
Mr. MANSFIELD. I move that the
INEZ C. BUCKLEY
ing our backs on those in need. So I am
Senate insist upon its amendment and
The resolution (S. Res. 185) to pay a
confident for the future.
agree to the request of the House for a
gratuity to Inez C. Buckley was con-
For now, however, the great task is to
conference on the disagreeing votes of
sidered and agreed to, as follows:
get the refugees out of the refugee
the two Houses thereon, and that the
FORD
Sunday, June 15, 1975
The Washington Star
Let Vietnamese refugees
do their own thing
Part of the money appropriated could be
By Le Thi Anh
used in a more productive manner, i.c., as
seed money to help the refugees set up
homes and businesses of their own or to
IL was and
get started on some sort of agricultural or
Some items in this folder were not digitized because it contains copyrighted
materials. Please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library for access to
these materials.
THE WASHINGTON POST
Md. Town Looks for
Vietnamese,
Doctor to Cure Its Ills
By Bill Richards
chance the Vietnamese doctors will be
28 will be eligible to enter residency
Washington Post Staff Writer
able to practice in the U.S. for three to
programs, but Martin predicted that
FEDERALSBURG, Md., June 18-
five years at best.
since they already have contacts with
- -
Some items in this folder were not digitized because it contains copyrighted
materials. Please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library for access to
these materials.
©Denying Our Heritage
President Ford was fully justified in his press confer-
ence last night to express his concern at the querulous
and uncharitable reaction of too many Americans to the
plight of the Vietnamese refugees. His statement on the
desirability of admitting them to the United States ought
to be read by every American. Mr. Ford's request for
$507 million to assist the resettlement of approximately
130,000 Vietnamese over the next two years is a rea-
sonable and honorable response to a tragic human situa-
tion. The United States can do nothing less.
Those citizens who are unemployed or who are finan-
cially pinched by inflation and high taxes have under-
standable fears that the nation is taking on yet another
burden while their problems remain unsolved. But those
fears are based on a misconception of the facts.
About 60 per cent of the refugees are children, while
many others are elderly persons too old to enter the
job market. Thus, only 30,000 of the Vietnamese refugees
are heads of households and likely to seek work. Of
these, many are doctors, lawyers and businessmen who
can readily find places for themselves in American life
and contribute needed skills.
What is harder than the fears of the unemployed to
explain and justify is the antagonism of many members
of Congress, including well-known liberals, and other
leaders of opinion throughout the country. Several liberal
members of the House of Representatives seem not to
be aware that the war in Vietnam is over.
No nation is eager to welcome criminals, prostitutes,
war profiteers, or practitioners of political torture. But
it grossly distorts the whole nature of the refugee prob-
lem to focus on the tiny minority of persons who might
deserve one or another of those terms of opprobrium,
or to exaggerate their number. There is no possible way
to make a just determination about the political or
moral character of individual refugees.
If some Vietnamese engaged in dirty work, they usu-
ally had American advisers or were financed by Ameri-
can money. In some respects it was a dirty war. But
now that it has all ended badly, it would be the ultimate
disgrace for Americans to turn their backs and adopt a
holier-than-thou attitude toward those Vietnamese who
aligned themselves with the American war effort in
their country.
It is likewise blatantly contradictory to play upon
fears that the Vietnamese may take away jobs or end
up on welfare rolls and at the same time argue that
many of them are too rich to deserve help.
Most of these refugees have lost all of their worldly
possessions. Many are separated from loved ones. All
have lost their country, a lasting sorrow that perhaps
only other migrants and exiles can fully comprehend.
They deserve to be cherished as fellow human beings
and given a welcoming hand as new Americans.
George Meany, president of the A.F.L.-C.I.O., has
pledged the labor movement's help-even in this time
of economic adversity-to assist the Vietnamese refugees
to find jobs. "The United States has an inescapable
GERALD
moral responsibility," Mr. Meany observed. "We are a
nation of immigrants. Rejecting them would be denying
our heritage and the history of this country as a haven
for the oppressed."
No matter what one may have thought about the
rights and wrongs of the Vietnam war, those words ex-
press the true American tradition.
7.321
A105
R A
REIMBURSE 6-11
WASHINGTON (UPI) -- THE ADMINISTRATION SAID TODAY IT WILL FULLY
REIMBURSE STATES FOR WELFARE GIVEN VIETNAMESE AND CAMBODIAN REFUGEES.
COMPLAINTS HAVE COME FROM SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE COUNTRY THAT
FEARED THEY WOULD BE INUNDATED BY REFUGEES WHO WOULD DRAIN THEIR
WELFARE FUNDS.
UNDER THE REFUGEE ASSISTANCE ACT PASSED LAST MONTH, $405 MILLION
WAS APPROPRIATED FOR REFUGEE CARE, INCLUDING $100 MILLION FOR THE
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE TO COVER INITIAL MEDICAL
TREATMENT AND CARE.
HEW SECRETARY CASPAR WEINBERGER SAID THE STATES WILL BE REIMBURSED
100 PER CENT FOR THE WELFARE, MEDICAL AND SOCIAL SERVICES PROVIDED TO
REFUGEES WHO NEED HELP AFTER BEING RESETTLED IN AMERICAN COMMUNITIES.
RESETTLEMENT UNDER SPONSORS WHO WILL PROVIDE FOOD, SHELTER AND
HELP IN FINDING EMPLOYMENT IS THE ADMINISTRATION'S GOAL FOR ALL
REFUGEES, WEINBERGER SAID.
"HOWEVER, IN ANY LARGE SCALE REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT PROGRAM, SOME
REFUGEES WILL HAVE TO SEEK AID FROM STATE AGENCIES," HE SAID. "IN
THOSE INSTANCES, OUR POLICIES WILL ASSURE THAT THE REFUGEES DO_NOT
BECOME A BURDEN ON STATE OR LOCAL RESOURCES."
THAT MEANS THE STATES WILL NOT HAVE TO PROVIDE THE NORMAL MATCHING
COSTS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR FEDERAL WELFARE AID FOR REFUGEES.
HEW SAID THAT WHEN MAJOR MEDICAL NEEDS ARISE, THE GOVERNMENT WILL
PROVIDE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE "IN ORDER TO AVOID A BREAKDOWN IN
SPONSORSHIP.'
THE DEPARTMENT ALSO SAID REFUGEES WHO WANT TO GO TO COLLEGE IN
THIS COUNTRY NEXT FALL WILL BE ELIGIBLE FOR FERERAL STUDENT LOANS
BECAUSE OF THE RECENT RULING FROM THE IMMIGRATION AND MATURALIZATION
SERVICES SAYING VIETNAMESE AND CANBODIANS WHO ENTERED THE COUNTRY AS
NONIUMIGRANTS MAY APPLY TO REMAIN INDEFINITELY.
UPI 06-11 11:01 AED
&
FORD
GERALD
LIBRARY
36
U
95
"There are no great men, my boy-only great committees."
FORD & GERALD LIBRARY
FORD
of an 0
AMERICAN
20 June 1975
ANTHROPOLOGICAL
ASSOCIATION
Ambassador John Eisenhower
Chairman
President's Advisory Committee
on Refugees
The White House
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Ambassador Eisenhower:
The United States has experienced events in earlier periods which are similar
to the resettlement of Vietnamese. One example is the long history of
resettlement of American Indians. Others include the relocation of Japanese
Americans in the 1940's and the subsequent experience of the War Relocation
Authority into the 1950's, and the more recent large scale movements of
Hungarians, Cubans and South African Blacks. Many social scientists have
studied and/or participated in these efforts yet it appears that we are
not fully utilizing this extensive national experience in the current situation.
If we do not make full use of this tool, ugly problems and equally ugly
headlines likely lie ahead.
In general, the recorded histories of these processes indicate that intense
recognition of cultural difficulties at an early stage might have averted
or lessened later difficulties and that information provided by social
science research within centers and relocation milieux was valuable to ad-
ministrators as problems arose. These two aspects of early widened perception
through the use of experienced social scientists and ongoing analysis of
local social developments are critical to the success of intercultural mi-
gration and resettlement.
Anthropologists are strongly interested in the problems with people that
inevitably will emerge in the resettlement of Vietnamese in the United States.
They and other social scientists have had much practical experience with the
difficulties of large intercultural movements of persons to and within the
United States and there is an effective published body of technical in-
formation on problems and possible useful solutions in such migrations.
There is also much specific individual professional concern with the
particular problems now being faced by the Vietnamese and their potential
hosts. In the current situation it is obviously necessary to make use of
the general experience of the past and especially the verifiable knowledge
we have of unique aspects of the Vietnamese as these relate to Americans.
To do this it is necessary to involve persons who can effectively introduce
and help apply such information in an environment of highly publicized
&
FOR
political and administrative urgency.
The probabilities in the Vietnamese refugee situation range from continued
incarceration "on reservations" at tremendous cost to precipitate dispersal
without preparation of migrants or recipients, both politically unfeasible
alternatives. The possible administrative structures range from total
1703 NEW HAMPSHIRE AVENUE, N.W., WASHINGTON, D.C. 20009 TELEPHONE (202) 232-8800
Ambassador John Eisenhower
20 June 1975
Page Two
Federal control and operation to merely nominal Federal supervision through
funding, either to local and state agencies or through a wide variety of
voluntary agencies. With any possible alternative, however, a centralized
Federal agency of some sort will most probably establish policy guidelines
and provide some detailed procedures and informational or orienting materials
to aid those who will work directly with migrants and hosts, Audit, evaluative
or feedback channels must be integrally provided and, in addition, the experience
should be recorded for future use.
In spite of the many Americans with recent Vietnamese experience there is
clear danger that the narrow quality of many such backgrounds will not en-
tirely serve in the new situation where wide varieties of migrants must
be fitted into a wide variety of American social environments. In the opera-
tions of a resettlement program it will be necessary to use all knowledge
to create a number of new formulas for different kinds of people in the
migration situation, and to assure that the formulas are meaningfully and
flexibly used at the actual points where different kinds of people meet.
In any such centralized Federal activity social scientists can provide useful
inputs to administrators at every level both in assisting with decisions
as to what can be done, and in later doing some of the chosen technical
tasks.
The major specialized needs for a central relocation structure that utilizes
social science contributions can be outlined under three major headings. One
is the need for structural and procedural planning for the operation,
which will involve critical information not only about the Vietnamese, but
also similar categories of information about Americans. Such planning will
take place at all levels of activity, as they successively become operational.
At each level social scientists can be found to provide information and
assistance as advisors, consultants, or as staff members. Obviously in such
use of specialists in planning, a need at every level will arise for quick
survey studies to test existing background experience and knowledge to the
emergent situations in camps, communities and interest groups among the
migrants and among the potential or actual hosts.
A second need will arise in the guidelines and orienting materials that
should be a part of whatever procedures to be adopted. At the least, such
documents should be reviewed by competent experts on both Vietnamese and
American cultures to ensure their value and "fit" every point.
Finally, there should be use of important observational studies to provide
social audit, evaluative and feedback materials to ensure conformity to
policy or allow quick adjustments when necessary.
Throughout, we need to be aware that the Vietnamese bring with them a
cultural heritage which can make its own contribution to our nation like
those of earlier immigrants. We should avoid forcing these refugees to make
unnecessary accommodations to our sociocultural environment at cost to
their self-respect and productivity.
FORD
SERALD
Ambassador John Eisenhower
20 June 1975
Page Three
To assist in fulfilling such needs the American Anthropological Association
stands ready to identify qualified anthropologists as they are needed in
advisory, consulting and staff positions. I am pleased to be able to add
that at a meeting last week of the Consortium of Social Science Associations
my counterparts in the Association of American Geographers, the American
Historical Association, the American Psychological Association and the
American Sociological Association indicated strong interest in similar
cooperation.
The varied skills, perspectives and experience of this pool can contribute
substantially to the successful relocation of the large number of refugees
to the benefit both of the Vietnamese and our own citizens.
Sincerely,
Executive qu
Edward
cm