United States Commission for |
The Commission is
an independent agency of the Government of the United States of America.
It was established by U.S. Public Law 99-83
. The law directs the
Commission to--
(1) identify and report on cemeteries, monuments, and historic buildings in Eastern and Central Europe that are associated with the heritage of U.S. citizens, particularly endangered properties, and
(2) obtain, in cooperation with the Department of State, assurances from the governments of the region that the properties will be protected and preserved.
In addition to the
types of sites specified in the law, the Commission also seeks the preservation
of similar types of properties, including related archival material. It,
additionally, encourages and facilitates private and foreign government
restoration and preservation projects.
The establishment of the Commission recognized that the population of
the United States is mostly comprised of immigrants and their descendents.
Because it is, the United States has an interest in the preservation of
sites in other countries. These sites are an important part of the cultural
heritage of many Americans.
The Holocaust and 45 years of atheistic, Communist governments created a critical need that led to the Commission’s establishment. The Holocaust annihilated much of Europe’s Jewish population, killing most Jews and forcing others to flee. In many countries, none were left to continue to care for the communal properties that represented an historic culture in the area and constitute an integral part of the Jewish religion. (Burial places are sacred in Judaism)
The destruction, desecration, and deterioration of properties under the Nazis persisted under subsequent Communist regimes. Additionally, Cold War tensions hindered access by Americans who wanted to ensure preservation of the sites.
Many properties continue to be endangered. Governments and communities in the region face fundamental and competing challenges. Some Jewish sites have also been affected by a resurgence of anti-Semitism.
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