American Council for Nationalities Service

The American Council for Nationalities Services had its origins during World War I in the United States Committee on Public Information, Division of Work with the Foreign Born. After several brief nongovernmental affiliations, the Division became independent in 1921 as the Foreign Language Information Service (FLIS). Its main purpose was educational; it also provided service to immigrant organizations. The FLIS was disbanded in 1939 and succeeded by Common Council for American Unity (CCAU).

The CCAU was responsible for release of information to the foreign language press, operated a radio service, published Common Ground, and worked with the government to help with activities such as alien registration and foreign language publicity. In 1959, after much preliminary discussion, the CCAU merged with the American Federation of International Institutes under the new name American Council for Nationalities Service (ACNS). The ACNS carried on most of the projects and activities of its predecessor organizations, including work with the foreign language press and radio, nationality groups, and the U.S. government. It has played an important role in resettlement of Cuban and Southeast Asian refugees.

From the description of Records, 1918-1986. (University of Minnesota, Minneapolis). WorldCat record id: 62627254

The American Council for Nationalities Services had its origins during World War I in the United States Committee on Public Information, Division of Work with the Foreign Born. After several brief nongovernmental affiliations, the Division became independent in 1921 as the Foreign Language Information Service (FLIS). Its main purpose was educational; it also provided service to immigrant organizations. The FLIS was disbanded in 1939 and succeeded by Common Council for American Unity (CCAU).

The CCAU was responsible for release of information to the foreign language press, operated a radio service, published Common Ground, and worked with the government to help with activities such as alien registration and foreign language publicity. In 1959, after much preliminary discussion, the CCAU merged with the American Federation of International Institutes under the new name American Council for Nationalities Service (ACNS). The ACNS carried on most of the projects and activities of its predecessor organizations, including work with the foreign language press and radio, nationality groups, and the U.S. government. It has played an important role in resettlement of Cuban and Southeast Asian refugees.

From the guide to the American Council for Nationalities Services Records, 1918-1986, (University of Minnesota Libraries. Immigration History Research Center [ihrc])