Washington, DC - Congressman Edolphus "Ed" Towns joined other Members of Congress in urging Russian President Vladmir Putin to return the Schneerson Collection, which is a extensive compilation of Jewish texts, which include unique  philosophy, Halacha or Jewish law and tradition. This rare collection is currently housed in the Russian State Library and the Russian State Military Archive. Congressman Towns stated "This priceless collection must be swiftly returned to its rightful heirs the- Agudas Chasidei Chabad of the United States."        
    
 "It is troubling to see the Russian Government take impressive strides towards the reconciliation of its relations with the Jewish people after years of repressing Jewish rights during the Iron Curtain, to be followed by actions that are not consistent with pluralism and democratic principles which the Russian government claim to abide by. Only a few months ago a number of Russian Lawmakers called for the banning of Jewish organizations. I was proud then to lead efforts in the Congress, condemning those individuals. This matter is no different and I feel that it is imperative on the Russian government to act in a positive fashion and return the Schneerson collection to the Chabad movement." Congressman Towns added. 
  
 "President Putin has just completed a historic trip to Israel, which marks the first time a Russian President has visited the Jewish State. This was a bold and important step towards mending relations with the Jewish people. I would hope that President Putin will continue on that path towards greater tolerance for Jews and heed the letters sent from the House of Representatives and the Senate and return the Schneerson collection to Chabad" Congressman Towns concluded.

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