Prior to 1990 - As witnesses, we were frequently told about our poor Mexican brothers who weren't "allowed" to use any literature out in field service, and how they weren't allowed to sing songs or use the bible at meetings. They had to use code language like "the symbol" instead of baptism. Oh the persecution!
Or course it was all bullcrap. There was no ban on religious freedom. Churches just couldn't own property. So, instead of worshipping, praying, and baptizing like a legitimate congregation.... The Wt chose to employ vast deception to get around the law. They claimed they were not a religious organization but just a cultural organization.... 'ole Rutherford would have been proud.
They demonstrated that they were willing to not even use the names Jehovah or Jesus just so they could grab the money!
With all the people leaving in the past few years I wonder how many know about that money scam.
Compare the Watchtowers' choice with that of the Apostles who roundly refused to stop preaching about Christ regardless of the consequences.