SWISS LAW AND CONDITIONS TODAY

In answer to questions concerning the present status of Swiss law concerning homosexual acts, the criminal code was quoted verbatim, providing imprisonment for seduction of minors, the use of force and homosexual prostitution. However, it appears that the definition of "minor" is not clear. Rolf said, "Were we to make an outcry about this, which would necessarily have to be submitted to popular vote, it would be doomed to failure. These things can only be fostered by doctors, psychiatrists and jurists-but even then the thing would be hopeless ... To try to alter laws that have been on the books for only fifteen years would we unwise."

An interesting sidelight on conditions in a country enjoying no legal prosecution of homosexual acts between consenting adults is that all members of the staff employ pseudonyms: Rolf, Editor-in-Chief (German); Charles, Editor (French); Rudolph, Editor (English); Andre, bookkeeper. In addition an anonymous committee of six oversees arrangements for the various meetings. Approximately two-thirds of the readers are from Switzerland and Germany.

Apparently DER KREIS had undertaken some work for the benefit of the homophiles of Germany, Austria and made contributions for Hungarian relief. through the University of Zurich and for some individuals. He driely added, "Unfortunately, we did not come through this experience without great disillusionment."

Rolf discouraged all thought of holding an ICSE Congress in Zurich, saying, "To hold a Congress in Zurich would not be possible. First, we have neither the means nor resources to sponsor such a thing. Second, we lack the time necessary for making ar-

rangements. We do not have ties with local scientists and scholars, furthermore, this town is too small to tolerate such a public display without provoking subsequent resentment, which none of us would wish. To do what we can is our aim. More than that you cannot expect from such a group as DER KREIS. We will continue to follow the work of the ICSE with interest and each year make such contribution as lies within our capacities."

Americans cannot fail to note with envy the legal freedoms now enjoyed by homosexuals in Switzerland, as well as such social diversions as weekly dances held without fear of interference.

On the other hand they cannot also overlook the freedoms they themselves enjoy which are not available to those in Switzerland. For instance, American homosexuals have had long-standing and generous cooperation from many eminent scientists. Nor in America is it necessary to be so careful about avoiding public attention. Since 1950 literally hundreds of meetings have been openly held in cities from coast-to-coast under homosexual auspices to discuss and consider homophilic questions. Reports of such meetings are sent to the press, even though seldom published. Radio and TV programs on the subject have been entirely successful, and a number of public forums held. Both ONE Magazine and the Mattachine Review are publicly sold from large numbers of newsstands in many cities.

These freedoms, differing as they do from one side of the Atlantic to the other, show that much yet remains to be done before homophiles, men and women anywhere, attain the civil and social liberties taken for granted by other segments of society. It is undeniable that in the forefront, pointing the way to such goals have been Rolf and DER KREIS.

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