CORRESPONDENCE March 1941 THE WOMAN'S NATIONAL MAGAZINE M. FITZBUTLER WARING MANAGING EDITOR MAIN OFFICES 4557 S. MICHIGAN AVE CHICAGO March 1, 1941 Dear Mrs. Terrell; Your check was received and thanks very much. We appreciate your support. It is only by cooperation that we will make advancement. March issue of the above named magazine will be out soon. Yours, G. Bozeman Subscription Dept. gb CARSON PIRIE SCOTT & CO. STATE, MADISON, WABASH, MONROE CHICAGO TELEPHONE STATE 2000 March 1, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 "S" Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: We usually pay $1.50 for books that retail for $2.50. In other words, the trade discount is 40%. Invoices can be very informal and only need to include the name and address of the seller, the name of the purchaser, and a line showing the name of the purchaser, and a line showing the quantity and title of the book and the cost price. Won't you fill out an invoice along this line and you can send us another copy of your book, and make the invoice for two copies. You can include the invoice with the copy to be sent us. I have had time to read some of your book and I think it is very interesting and should have a good sale if given the proper publicity. Why don't you send a copy of your book to the READERS' DIGEST with a note giving a few facts about it? This concern sometimes prints a chapter of an outstanding book in its magazine which gets it before millions of readers and the results are very desirable. Yours sincerely, Ralph B Henry BOOK DEPARTMENT CARSON PIRIE SCOTT & CO. h/g 242 THE WRIGLEY BUILDINGS, BY NIGHT, CHICAGO March 1, 1941 [*I wrote my name in your address book*] Dear Mrs. Terrell - , I have failed to receive my book that I purchased from at Mrs. Connor's party the day before you left Chicago. My friend Mrs Rodgers bought one the same day and hers came Wednesday. Many thanks from. Minnie D. Smith 4754 Champlain Ave T.M. Smith Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S St. N.W. Washington D,C. 2.50 25 1250 500 62.50 Jacksonville, Florida, Mar. 3 - 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. My dear Mrs. Terrell: I have just received from my friend Mr. Slaughter, an auto-graphed copy of your book; "Colored woman in a white world", for which I am very grateful to you for the autograph. He suggested that you would like to have a agent in in this city and section, inquiring if I would like to take the same. I see no reason why I should not, as I am impressed that it should be a good seller, not only on your reputation, but on its merits. I have not completed reading it, but as far as I've gone, it is worth more than the price paid. Let me know the commissions and the terms you offer, and I am sure we can get together, and the sooner the better I will like it. You may get brother Slaughter to vouch for me. I recall, when I lived in Pensacola, Fla., a visit to our city, you made, under the auspicies of the Woman's Federation, of which Mrs. Hattie Dorroh, at that time (now deceased) was president. The impression made by you in your address, lived long. By way of reminiscence; I read you address in the "Twentieth Century Negro Literature" Dr. Culp-Author, subject: "What role is the educated Negro woman to play in the uplifting of the race". Let me hear from you. Very truly your, Robt. T. Thomas Robt. T. Thomas, 987-W-8th, St. PUBLIC SCHOOLS OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA DUNBAR HIGH SCHOOL First And N Streets NW. Washington, D.C. Walter L. Smith Principal Julia E. Brooks Assistant Principal March 3, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: The Dunbar Chapter of the National Honor Society is preparing to observe Dunbar Day in honor of Dunbar, the poet, for whom our school is named. This will also be the occasion for the second annual induction of new members into the Dunbar Honir Society who have attained a high scholastic record and have been outstanding in character, leadership, and service. Because of your many distinguished achievements and interest in education, Principal Smith joins me in extending to you a most cordial invitation to address a student assembly on this occasion on any subject which you deem willl be inspiring to high school pupils. The date is March 26, 1941 at nine o'clock in the morning. The assembly is scheduled to last an hour and a half; twenty or thirty minutes of this time will be at your disposal. Both date and hour can be changed for your convenience. With thanks, I am, Very truly yours, (Mrs.) Gladys T. Woods Sponsor b By the time you write they will be reading the copy you sent me. I just wish you lots of success with the sale of your book With Best Wishes for your Health I am Very Truly Beatrice Gaines [Adoues?]. Mar - 3- 1941 Dear Mrs. Terrell Many thanks for the book I had read it & enjoyed it so much. One of "The Howard girls" sent it to a friend & neighbor of mine. I will now enjoy it again. Thanks for the autograph. I am making a collection of books by colored authors & have them autographed when I can. Do you remember your friend Mrs. C.B. Martin, your schoolmate- Well she passed in the Fall. A very fine patient of mine. I know you will miss Mrs. Myers whenever you come to Cleve. I am waiting upon a Miss Woodruff who was at Oberlin when your daughter Phillis was there. She is very eager To read you book. I just couldn't imagine the prejudice in Europe so many years ago. I am taking it in to one of our friends bookstore to see if they will take a number for you. There are so many people here from Oberlin that would be interested. I would write them if I were you Korner & Wood 1512 Euclid Ave Cleve. O. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Delta Sigma Chapter 517 E. Market Street Xenia, Ohio March 4, 1941 Mrs. M.C. Terrell 1615 S. Street N.W. Washington, D.C. Dear Soror Terrell: We, the members of Delta Sigma Chapter and Beta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, are trying to launch a big program on our campus, Wilberforce University, for May Week. The time set for this is May 4th thru 11th 1941. We are asking you if you would please come to Wilberforce Ohio, Wilberforce University, Sunday May 11th to be our May Week guest speaker. If you can not come on the 11th, could you come on the 4th? We, of course, would have to know all the costs involved, so we could work our finances with our undergraduate chapter, Beta. Soror Terrell if you could come, we will be singularly honored. Kindly let me know at once. Fraternally, (Mrs.) Juanita Anderson - Corr. Sec. Chi Eta Phi Sorority Alpha Chapter Washington, D. C. Basileus C. E. Beverly Anti-Basileus O. K. Larkins Grammateus L. M. Caver Epistoleus N. Vaucrossen Tamiouchos L. E. Moseley Sergeant-at Arms A. P. Glenn Chaplain A. B. Kerrick Freedmen's Hospital. March 4, 1941. Mrs. Mary Church Terrell. 1615 S St., N.W., Washington, D.C. My dear Mrs. Terrell: This is to acknowledge receipt of and thank you for your prompt reply under date of March 4, 1941. Moreso do we thank you for consenting to be guest speaker at the banquet given in honor of our new members on March 14. I have been instructed to advise you that the other speakers of the evening will be two or three of the older members, who will give a brief history of the Sorority, another a short resume of the past year's activities and another on our future plans. Relative to the length of time you might talk, we suggest anywhere between twenty to thirty minutes, inasmuch as you will be the only regular speaker for the evening. Be assured, Mrs. Terrell, that the members will be happy to have you with us, which they will certainly deem an honor. Again thanking you and with best future wishes, we are Sincerely, (Miss) Clara Beverly, R.N., Basileus Nora Vaucrosson (Miss) Nora Vaucrosson, R.N., Epistoleus. HOWARD UNIVERSITY WASHINGTON, D.C. OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY March 4, 1941 The students, faculties and employees, alumni, and the Board of Trustees of Howard University deeply appreciate your thoughtful message in recognition of the fifteen years of service of President Johnson at the University. Your tribute was called to the attention of the six hundred persons assembled in the University Gymnasium on Saturday night, March first, on which occasion the Seventy-Fourth Anniversary of the founding of Howard University was also celebrated, and it was then given to President Johnson personally. I am enclosing a souvenir program of these events. Sincerely yours, James M. Nabrit, Jr. James M. Nabrit, Jr. Secretary Enclosure: 1041 W. Lanvale Street Baltimore, Maryland March 5, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street N.W. Washington, D.C. My dear Mrs. Terrell: I wish to apologize for my apparent ignorance in attempting to contact you. This was partly due to my illness and a lack of cooperation on the part of my working committee. I will explain this more in detail when we meet. However, except my deepest regret for having made a statement that would label you as one "unknown" in our communities. This mistake was not intended. I do hope you will overlook my poor use of words. I should like to arrange for a conference for Sunday March 9, 1941 at 3:00 P.M. to discuss the pageant, if said time and date will be convenient. Thanking you for your consideration. Very truly, Sheldon B. Hoskins Sheldon B. Hoskins SBH:am 9823 N.E. Fourth Avenue Miami Shores, Florida March 6, 1941 Dr. Howard Hyde Russell Westerville, Ohio Dear Dr. Russell: It is a fine thing you are doing to lend your efforts to enlisting the help of Oberlinites in raising the income of the Oberlin Alumni Fund, as a means of aiding the dear old College. I cannot give much of a check, but if spiritual values are more influential than financial, my gift will fall into the million column of receipts: With affectionate greetings to all Boys and Girls of Oberlin, Cordially yours, Clarence A. Vincent, '84 Clarence A. Vincent, '84 JAMES HARRIS FAIRCHILD We build a shaft to keep alive the name Of our Beloved. Time's touch decays it Until it falls in pieces bit by bit. No earthly column keeps alive their fame, 'Tis only those who share the praise and blame Of men, and in life's struggles never quit, Whose paths of life by love's own rays are lit That leave rich memories which stir and tame. O our Beloved of the master mind, Who knew the secrets of the sky and sod, And in each humble souls some worth could find, Was just to him who bore the crown or hod, And to the strong and weak supremely kind, On earth - - and now in Heaven - - you walk with God. C.A.V. Dear Oberlin Comrades: With the thought that you will want to see Clarence Vincent's tribute to your dear President of days gone by, I am sending it with this second opportunity to add any gift which you may wish to render to our Alumni Fund of 1941. Your comrade, Howard H. Russell Howard Hyde Russell Class Agent for the Alumni Fund April 11, 1941 Thursday noon March 6 - 1941 Dear Mrs Terrell Am still thrilled to no you are going to be our guest as well as speaker. will have some one to meet the Eleven nine bus Saturday morning. your fare will be taken care of I could send it in this letter but only one mail out a day you might not get it. Am sorry you did not send a folder in your first letter where I announced you as our speaker many things I would have said to the young people. will close expecting to see you sataturday Very truely Susan Tokes CURRENT BIOGRAPHY WHO'S NEWS AND WHY THE H. W. WILSON COMPANY 950 University Avenue Avenue, New York Mar. 7, 1941 Publicity Department Ranadell, Inc. 810-16 Rhode Island Ave. N. E. Washington, D. C. Gentlemen: Will you please send us biographical information and a photograph of Mrs. Mary Church Terrell. Sincerely yours, Maxine Block Maxine Block, Editor MB:BF Current Biography-A Cumulative Monthly Featuring National and International Names in the News of the Day Will you please send us biographical information and a photograph of Mrs. Mary Church Terrell. Sincerely yours, Maxine Block Maxine Block, Editor Current Biography- A Cumulative Monthly featuring National and International Names in the News of the Day HOWARD UNIVERSITY WASHINGTON, D. C. ANDREW RANKIN MEMORIAL CHAPEL Office of the Dean March 7, 1941 Dear Oberlin Alumnus, On Sunday morning, March 16, at 11 o'clock in Andrew Rankin Chapel, we shall have the pleasure of presenting President Ernest Hatch Wilkins of Oberlin College. For Saturday evening preceding the Sunday service, we have planned a dinner in Dr. Wilkin's honor, to which all interested Oberlin alumni will be invited. The dinner will be given in Truth Hall, Howard University, at 8 o'clock, the dinner ticket...$1.00. We are eager to have you come and share in this hour of Oberlin Fellowship. Our space is limited so that reservations should be made as early as possible. With Every good wish, Sincerely, Howard Thurman Howard Thurman Chi Eta Phi Sorority Alpha Chapter Washington D. C. Basileus C. E. Beverly Anti-Basileus O. K. Larkins Grammateus L. M. Caver Epistoleus N. Vauerossen Tamiouchos L. E. Moseley Sergeant-at-Arms A. P. Glenn Chaplain A. B. Kerrick Freedmen's Hospital Washington, D. C., March 8, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, 1615 - S Street, N.W., Washington, D. C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: Complying with your request in accordance with our telephone conversation yesterday morning, we are herewith enclosing a brief resume of the establishment or history of Chi Eta Phi Sorority as well as of some of its past and future activities. Trusting that the above information will serve its purpose and appreciating you very valued co-operation in a matter, we beg to remain. Faithfully yours, (Miss) Clara Beverly, R.N., Basileus Nora Vaucrosson (Miss) Nora Vaucrosson, R.N., Epistoleus. Freedmen's Hospital, Washington, D.C., February 9, 1941. HISTORY OF CHI ETA PHI SORORITY. Recognizing the need for a higher Educational standard for the nursing profession, a closer and more friendly relationship, and a correlation of all branches of the profession, twelve young women met on October 16, 1932, at Freedmen's Hospital Nurses' Home to discuss plans for the foundation of this organization. Mrs. Aliene Carrington Ewell was elected Basileus and under her most able guidance and with the invaluable advice, assistance, and caution of Dr. George Adams who so patiently and willingly gave us his services the Chi Eta Phi Sorority was established, the name denoting Character, Education and Friendship. It was incorporated under the laws of the District of Colombia, May 1, 1934. The twelve Charter members were - Mesdames - Aliene Ewell, Kathrine Turner, Henriette Chisholm, Bessie Cephas. Misses - Gladys Catchings, Lillian Mosely, Susan Freeman, Clara Beverly, Ruth Garrett, Clara Royster, Mildred Wood, Olivia Larkins. In June, 1934, the Sorority gave its first annual award to the student of the Freemen's Hospital Graduating class who excelled in Pediatrics from a practical and scholastic angle. This award was given to Miss Ruth Carter, who later became a member of the Sorority. Thanksgiving Day of 1934, was made happier for a number of indigent families by the members of the Sorority. Baskets piled high with food were distributed to them. On Xmas of the same year the children in many unfortunate homes were given candy, nuts fruit and toys. Clothing was also distributed to members of these familie In 1935 the Beta Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority was organized among the student nurses of Freedmen's Hospital School of Nursing. In this chapter lies the hop for more efficient nurses with a better appreciation for upholding the standards of their school and a desire for furthering their education after graduation. The Alpha Chapter accepted the Charter members of the Undergraduate chapter at an informal reception in the Nurses' Home, April 27, 1935. __ -2- The first pledges in the Alpha Chapter were initiated on May 3, 1935. Following this a banquet was given at Howard University in honor of the new members and Miss Charlotte K. May our first Honorary member. On June 1, 1935, a picnic was given in Rock Creek Park for forty-five under-privileged children. The occasion proved to be equally enjoyable by both mothers and children. The first member to receive her Bachelor's Degree, was Miss Edloe Brown, who graduated from Morgan College, June, 1935. Since that time and at the present time, many of the members of Alpha Chapter are further- ing their education by taking courses at the local Universities and at Columbia University. In January, 1936, Chi Eta Phi Sorority was privileged to become a Member of the Council of Sororities and Fraternities. In the year 1936 and at the present time, many health projects were sponsored by the sorority. Health talks were given to adolescent girls and mothers' Clubs, at the South-west and South-East Community Houses, Francis Jr. High School and at one of the Churches in Rockville, Md. At the South-East Community House one of its projects was the inocculation of forty-eight children for Diphtheria. St. Augustine's School was the scene for a lecture and demonstration in First-Aid. As a result of these health activities, the Sorority was awarded a certificate of merit by the National Negro Health Movement for achievement in the observation of National Negro Health week. At our annual banquet, May, 1936, Mrs. Anna Papina Glen was welcomed as an Honorary member of the Sorority. In 1937, Sorors Susan Freeman, Ruth Carter and Mildred Wood, gave their services to the end of the Red Cross Nursing Service by going to Louisville, Ky., to aid in flood relief. Clothing also was sent by members of the Sorority. At the present time, Alpha Chapter is planning a Library for convalescent patients at Freedmen's Hospital. Although the amount of work accomplished to date may seem small, it has revealed infinite possibilities for the future and we hope with hard work and the aid of our friends, to see out dream of a library come true. ------oOo------oOo------ P.S. From year to year a similar schedule of activities with various changes is carried on. ------oOo------ 709 S. Blount Street Raleigh, N. C. March 8, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1824 S. Street Washington, D. C. Dear Soror Terrell: The Alpha Rho and Alpha Zeta Sigma Chapters of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority would be honored to have you as our guest speaker for our May Day Program, which will be held May 4th, at four thirty p.m. in Green Leaf Hall, Shaw University. WE would appreciate hearing from you at your earliest convenience and kindly inform us what our financial obligations will be to you. Yours truly, Chapters Ethel B. Lytle Ethel B. Lytle Corresponding Secretary PROF. E. D. SMITH, PRINCIPAL PROF. J. C. SANDERSON, ASSISTANT PHILLIS WHEATLEY HIGH SCHOOL "SCHOLARSHIP, CHARACTER, SERVICE' Houston, Texas March 10, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615-S-St. N. W. Washington, D. C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: Inclosed is the check made out to you for the autographed copy of your book "A Colored Woman in a White World." I received the book to-day and already, ten teachers are on the "reserve list" to read it. Your book is most interesting and fascinating. When one starts reading it he hates to be interrupted until he has finished. Your life has been and still is most interesting. Here's wishing for you continued success, good health and much happiness in the years to come. Sincerely yours, "Frances" D. Griffin Board of National Missions Board of International Missions Board of Christian Education Women's Guild Women's Missionary Society Women's Union Churchman's Brotherhood A. R. Keppel, President Miss Carrie M. Kerschner, Vice-President J. J. Braun, Secretary-Treasurer COOPERATIVE COUNCIL OF MISSIONARY EDUCATION Evangelical and Reformed Church DAVID D. BAKER, DIRECTOR 1720 Chouteau Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri March 11, 1941 1940 A YEAR OF ANNIVERSARIES 215th Year-Reformed Church in the U. S. 100th Year-Evangelical Synod of N. A. 50th Year-First Hungarian Congregation This Year-Evangelical and Reformed Church Constitution Declared in Effect Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: My husband has handed to me your letter of March 2nd since it was in an article of mine we wished to use the quotation from your very interesting book, "A Colored Woman in a White World." I, too, was most anxious to use the reminder of that para- graph as you suggest, but it so happens that the length of the column which I write for our magazine is arbitrarily set, and I had to use what I could and not what I wanted. This particular issue will not appear for several months, but I shall see that you receive a copy when it does. My hearty thanks to you for your generous permission to use the quotation. Let me tell you how very much I enjoyed reading your book although, of course, it makes sorry reading for a white person who already suffers from [many of] the many lacks of evidences of democracy in our country. My husband gave me your book as a Christmas gift along with Ruth Benedict's "Race, Science and Politics". Perhaps you would be interested to know that I was once on the Interracial Committee of the Baltimore Federation of Churches, that now I am Chairman of the Interracial Commission of the Women's Interdenominational Missionary Federation of St. Louis, as well as a member of the Interracial Committee of the Y.W.C.A and of the Interracial Committee of the Social Planning Council. I am planning to review your book in the near future to a group of ministers' wives of my denomination. Cordially yours, Helen E. Baker (Mrs. David D.) Washington Chapter of Girl Friends 206 Elm Street, N. W. Washington, D. C. March 11, 1941 Dear Mrs. Terrell: The Washington Chapter of Giirl Friends would like for you to extend greetings from our city to the visitors at our annual conclave to be held her at the Phyllis Wheatley Y. W. C. A. on Saturday, May 10, 1941 at one o'clock. This national organization is about fourteen years old and is now composed of chapters in New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, New Jersey, Boston, New Haven, Brooklyn, Springfield, Richmond, Newport News, and Washington. Our program consists of social and charitable activities carried on throught the year. As one of Washington's most outstanding citizens in civic, literary, educational, and social fields, we will appreciate it greatly if you bestow this honor upon us. Hoping for a favorable reply, Sincerely, (Mrs.) Thelma L. Baltimore President of the Washington Chapter of Girl Friends WOMAN'S WHO'S WHO LARKIN, ROOSEVELT & LARKIN, LTD. 142-154 EAST 32ND ST., NEW YORK, N. Y. EDITORIAL DEPARTMENT 142-154 EAST 32ND STREET NEW YORK CITY 11 MARCH 1941 Dear Mrs. Terrell, In a few weeks out linotype men will begin the laborious task of preparing the material for a world edition of "Woman's Who's Who." Since we have given much time and have expended a great deal of money in the preparation of this extensive work, I think you will really be interested to read over the enclosed material. Although I realize that you may often be bothered by requests for biographical information, I venture to hope that you will be willing to fill out the enclosed questionnaire within the next day or two. "Woman's Who's Who" will incorporate the publication, "Leading Women of America," limited in scope by national boundaries, into a broader, more exclusive field. Here alone can information of this character be found. I have found everywhere a splendid spirit of cooperation; and I will be extremely grateful to you for your kind help. If you wish to have this book, you may, for a short period of time, take advantage of the special pre-publication offer of $12.50, rather than pay the regular $17 bookstore price. Even if you do not wish to buy a copy, please feel free to return the questionnaire without any obligation. Yours sincerely, Thomas Larkin III WHO'S WHO IN AMERICA The editor and publishers take pleasure in informing you that the Twenty-second Biennial edition of WHO'S WHO IN AMERICA is now in course of preparation. Your name has been proposed for inclusion in this new, up-to-date volume and you are cordially invited to furnish the necessary material for a brief personal sketch of yourself, so that you may be properly and accurately represented. Please answer the questions printed on the following pages and return this leaflet at your earliest convenience. By doing so you will confer a favor upon the editor. A brief sketch will then be prepared and sent you for revision before it is printed. All material is subject to editorial acceptance and approval. There is not charge for the insertion of personal data in WHO'S WHO IN AMERICA. An early response will be much appreciated. Sincerely yours, The S. N. Marquis [?] Books Please give complete list of all Published Books of which you are author or co-author, arranged in order of publication. Give names of co-authors. Also list separately books of which you are editor or compiler and which bear your name on the title page. Title of Books in full Books Edited or Compiled by you and which bear your name on the Title Page. (Indicate in each case whether editor or compiler.) Present Publisher (if out of print, so state) Address of Publisher (City and State) No. of Pages Year First Published Do you contribute to magazines or periodicals? If so, state whether Articles, Fiction, Verse, etc. Name publications (if any) for which you write regularly: MISCELLANEOUS NOTES: All data are subject to editorial acceptance and approval. The pertinent facts pertaining to eligible names will be arranged in proper form and sent for revision before they are put into print. There is no charge whatever for the insertion of personal data in this work. WOMAN'S WHO'S WHO A BIOGRAPHICAL DICTIONARY OF IMPORTANT LIVING WOMEN IN THE AMERICAS, EUROPE, ASIA, AFRICA and AUSTRALASIA WOMAN'S WHO'S WHO, to be published in 1941 and issued biennially thereafter, will contain about 30,000 biographical histories of the leading women of the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa and Australasia. This will include a proportionate representation of distinguished women in all fields from almost every quarter of the globe. The aim of the volume is to give a brief, thorough account of every woman whose position and achievements raise her to a place far above other women. Only women of general public interest or those conspicuous in their profession are included in this book, which will be timely, accurate, complete, and a "must" volume for reference in business, newspaper offices, libraries and the home. The life of prominent and unusual women of all the continents can here be seen in all its phases — showing their contribution to the fields of education, science, medicine, social work, industry, finance, the theater, law, and the ministry. Information given in education, college degrees, marriage, children, occupation, outline of achievements, business affiliations, politics, War service, societies, sororities, clubs, business, summer and home addresses. The publishers have striven to avoid invidious selection, yet not to omit, through oversight, names who absence might occasion surprise. From the thousands of names submitted to the editorial committee as eligible for inclusion, the most prominent have been selected and are queried with the enclosed Questionnaire. Not one single line of space has been or can be paid for. Qualifications which the editorial committee has made the basis of its standards of admission have been divided into the following groups: (1) Women whose achievements and distinctions make them of particular interest. (2) Women whose outstanding current activities make them newsworthy. (3) Women whose positions bring them continually before the public eye. WOMAN'S WHO'S WHO has been compiled to meet a great need. During the past thirty years women have won for themselves a new place in the world of accomplishment. Opportunity to attain concise, pertinent, up-to-the-minute data concerning the careers and endeavors of the most distinguished and unusual women has become a necessity. Here alone can such information be found. For no other volume for women has been undertaken with the wide scope of this book, which as been compiled at the request of some of the leading newspapers of the United States. The publishers are attempting to create a truly representative volume with high standards for admission. Admission to the pages of WOMAN'S WHO'S WHO has two qualifications only: "Who is she?" "What has she done?" WOMAN'S WHO'S WHO will incorporate the publication "Leading Women of America" and will be published by Larkin, Roosevelt & Larkin, Ltd., publishers of the well-known "Who's Who in Massachusetts," 1940-41, and others in the process of publication. It will be under the editorial direction of Virginia L. Tompkins, daughter of the man who introduced the Who's Who idea to America, and who herself has edited six similar publications. WOMAN'S WHO'S WHO will stand 9¼ by 7⅛ by 3½ inches. It will be bound in fine royal blue cloth, stamped in gold, printed on quality English finish paper, 3000 pages, and at the special prepublication price of twelve dollars and fifty cents. A few limited edition copies will be available in genuine blue morocco, at the pre-publication price of fifteen dollars. Your kind co-operation in filling out and returning the Questionaire will greatly facilitate the tremendous editorial work and be highly appreciated by the committee. PUBLISHED BY LARKIN, ROOSEVELT & LARKIN, LTD. 142-154 EAST 32ND STREET NEW YORK CITY LRL LTD. Miss Ellen C. Malm, 1219 So. 9th St., Clinton, Iowa. March 11, 1941 Mrs. Mary E. Terrell, Washington, D.C. My dear Mrs. Terrell: Your book, A Colored Woman in the White World, was so interesting and so illuminating I want to thank you for writing it. Some of us white people just do not realize that you people have to put up with, and sometimes our own problems seem so great we cannot conceive of any one being worse off than we are. There are very few colored families here. Some of them ride on the bus every day, they are well dressed and well mannered and I am sure no one even thinks about them. The bus driver is just as careful about letting them off in the middle of the block or in the front of their homes as he is of any one else. I noticed you are interested in Unity and Christian Science so I am sure you will find the leaflets enclosed not only interesting but most helpful. With all good wishes for Peace and Happiness for you and yours, I am, Sincerely, Ellen C. Malm Member of the Audit Bureau of Circulations Pittsburg Courier 2628 CENTRE AVENUE PITTSBURGH PA. Mayflower 1401 George S. Schuyler, Editor, The Feature Department, 270 Convent Avenue, New York, N.Y. March 12, 1941 Dear Mrs. Terrell: Sorry that I do not know your address and have to reach you in this roundabout way. Would you like to do a review of not more than 500 words of "Crusader in Crinoline" by Forrest Wilson? It is a biography of Harriet Beecher Stowe, and I feel you are the proper person to appraise it. May I hear from you at once in this connection? Note address in red. Sincerely yours, George S. Schuyler P.S. needless to say I can offer no payment except the book. for your health and for your personal happiness, I am Very sincerely yours, Gertrude M. Slade March 12, 1941 3425 Ordway Street My dear Mrs. Terrell, Thank you so much for sending your book so promptly and for the autographed inscription. I have started reading it What you have done with your life. I am enclosing my cheque — I had intended buying the book any- way so you just made that easier. With all good wishes and I know I shall enjoy it much both because of the contexts and Also because of knowing you and because I have such admiration of you personally and of Woman's H. & F.M. Convention AUXILIARY TO W. B. CONVENTION HENRIETTA H. CHILES, President Office: 2510 So. Central Avenue, Reems, 201--208 Residence 855 East 27th Street, CEntury 21750 Vice Presidents Mrs. Bertha Wade L. A. Dist. Con. Mrs. W. D. Carter Tri-County Dist. Mrs. Zenabia Payne S. W. Dist. Mrs. Venita Evans Cor. Secy. 1557 E. 48st, L. A. Executive Board Mesdames W. D. Carter Berta Wade [Zenobia Payne] J. A. H. Eldrige [F. C. Tucker] [Willa Williams] Mallie Davis Gertrude Buford Blanche Carter [S. A. Reed Edith Rankin Elizabeth Smith] Blanche Thomas [Mrs. C. H. Gordon U. A. Andrews] Los Angeles, Calif March 12, 19[3]41 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S. St. N. W. Washington, D. C. Dear Mrs. Terrell:- Yours of March 1st. received. It is possible that I can handle your book if, however, you wish to do it in the same way as I handled Dr. Powell's books (rather on consignment and reports made when a few books were sold). You realize that a book selling for $2.50 will not be as readily sold as one for $1.50 or $2.00. I shall be pleased to try it out on the terms that I handled Dr. Powell's book. I called Mrs Bass and she says that she did not receive the book, and asks that you check on that end and she will do the same here. She says the book was sent while she was away she would be pleased to find who received it. Let me hear from you on the matter. Yours truly, Henrietta H. Chiles Metropolitan Baptist Church R Street, Bet. 12th and 13th Streets, Northwest Phones: NORTH 0294 and HOBART 9592 J. Lorenzo Jordan, Church Clerk Ruth L. Jefferson, Church Secretary Washington, D.C. Rev. E.C. Smith, A.M., B.D., D.D. Pastor Res.: 1343 T Street, Northwest Phone: Potomac 4714 L.E. MURRAY Chairman, Board of Deacons 1425 Corcoran Street, Northwest Rev. D.F. Johnson, TH.B. Assistant to the Pastor 2807 Sherman Avenue, N.W. E.L. Person Chairman, Board of Trustees 1944 Second Street, N.W. March 12, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1516 S Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. My dear Mrs. Terrell: I have read with interest your letter of March 6. I feel that your book "Colored Woman in a White World" is worthy of any consideration possible I have to give and should be read widely by members of both races. Please send 10 copies to my office and I shall be glad to announce same to my congregation. You might state also at what points the book can be attained. My younger son handles books for our congregation through the Church office, you might include in your statement any commission you might allow him for the same. By all means send us a few copies at your earliest convenience. Assuring you that I feel that your book is a distinct contribution to the cause of race betterment, and with every kind wish, I am Yours very truly, E.C. Smith Pastor, Metropolitan Baptist Church ECS/LAP CHARLESTON WOMAN'S IMPROVEMENT LEAGUE 1898 "LIFTING AS WE CLIMB" 1937 CHARLESTON, WEST VIRGINIA March 13, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S. St., N.W. Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: Mrs. E. L. Powell, the Chairmen of the Fine Arts Department, inform me that they would expect you in Charleston on April 20th, 1941. They were not able to arrange a date in March because the String Ensemble of the West Virginia State College is out of the city this month. Mrs. Powell will write you later as to the talk which you are to make this on occasion. I will also write you later about the sale of your book. With kinds personal regards, I am Yours truly, Jane E. Spaulding Mrs. A. L. Spaulding JSL:hlt 510 Morris Street Charleston, W. Va. THE YOUNG WOMEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK WEST 137TH STREET BRANCH 179 WEST 137TH STREET TELEPHONE AUDOBON 3-2777 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MRS. ERNEST R. ALEXANDER, Branch Chairman MRS. EMMA S. RANSOM, Honorary Chairman MRS. WILLIAM M. CUMMINGS, Vice-Chairman MRS. CHARLES PINCKNEY, Treasurer MRS. EDGAR N. PARKS, Treasurer MRS. VIRGINIA E. SCOTT, Treasurer Emeritus MRS. EMMA SHEILDS PENN, Recording Secretary DEPARTMENTAL EXECUTIVES Mattie J. Brown, Employment Director Elizabeth Ferguson, Food Service Director Olivia M. Hunter, Education Director Maude G. Johnson, Case Consultant Louise B. Lawrence, Office Alroy S. Long, Residence Director Rosalind L. Putman, Program Director MaBelle W. Williams, Contact and Camp Director Cecelia Cabaniss Saunders, Executive Secretary March 13, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street N.W. Washington, D. C. My dear Mrs. Terrell: Our girls here at the Y.W.C.A were thrilled to have your most inspiring message at their reception honoring Negro Women. We deeply appreciate your interest in such activities of young people and extend our thanks to you for this kindly gesture. Sincerely yours, Louise P. Cochran Louise P. Cochran Jr. Activities Director LPC MJS Please reply to: Mrs. Rose Brunswick, Secretary, 423 Mellon St. S.E. Washington, D.C. WOMEN'S TRADE UNION LEAGUE OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Washington, D.C. March 13, 1941. Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, 1623 S St. N.W. Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: It is will great pleasure that I write you confirming Mrs. Mary Mason Jones' talk with you about appearing at our meeting next Tuesday, March 25 at 8:15 P.M. I can assure you that our members are all looking forward to meeting you. One of us will call for you about 7:45 P.M. Sincerely yours, Rose Brunswick Secretary THE CHRISTOPHER PUBLISHING HOUSE PUBLISHERS FOR MORE THAN A QUARTER OF A CENTURY 1140 COLUMBUS AVENUE BOSTON LIBRARY OF EDUCATIONAL METHODS HISTORY ECONOMICS AND SOCIOLOGY TRAVEL AND ADVENTURE HEALTH AND DIET MEDICAL THEORIES RELIGION AND PHILOSOPHY BIOGRAPHY PRESENT DAY PROBLEMS AMERICANIZATION CONTEMPORARY AMERICAN POETRY AND DRAMA FICTION AND ESSAYS JUVENILE TEXT BOOKS PUBLISHERS, IMPORTERS AND BOOKSELLERS OF GENERAL LITERATURE CABLE ADDRESS "CHRISPUBLI" BOSTON ALL MANUSCRIPTS AND CONTRACTS SUBJECT TO STRIKES, LOSST THROUGH FIRE OR OTHER CAUSES BEYOND OUR CONTROL. March 15, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, N.W. Washington District of Columbia Dear Madame: As we are preparing our book list for the coming season, I am writing to ask if you have any manuscript you may wish to have us consider with a view to publication. Our list of publications includes a wide range of subjects, as you doubtless know, and I can assure you that any manuscript you may submit will receive our careful attention. I trust that we may have the pleasure of hearing from you, even though you have nothing ready at this time. Very sincerely yours, Arthur J. Christopher AJC:FA Robbins Ill. Mar.15, 41 Dear Mrs. Terrell: I know you will be surprised to hear from me, I had hoped to see you while you were in Chicago but as you know how far I am from the City & not having a car it was quite inconvenient. I had looked forward to having you & Mary to dinner with us Christmas but unforeseen circumstances upset the plans. Haven't seen Mary for sometime. I know how hard it is for her to adjust herself if she only knew where to turn in the hour of sorrow & find help & comfort. Mrs. Terrell the object of this letter. I have heard of your book & wish to purchase one. My great neice, you have hear us speak of Mary Louise Hess is twelve years old, named by Mary, is graduating in June from grammer school & it is the custom of the graduating class to present something to the school on leaving. The school has stressed the study of Negro history & his contributions to civilization & has in its library a Negro self for the use of its pupils so I suggest to my neice, I thought your book would be a wonderful gift to the school. Please send me the purchase price & you will hear from you shortly Roy wishes to be remembered to you. Hoping to hear from you at your earliest convenience. I remain Lovingly Artie Thomas ΔΣΘ Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Delta Sigma Chapter 517 E. Market Street Xenia, Ohio March 17th 1941 Mrs. Mary C. Terrell 1615 S. Street , N.W. Washington, D.C. Dear Soror Terrell: Your friendly letter was indeed an inspiration for us to plan a lovely May Week. We accept the terms mentioned in your letter, and are very, very happy that you have consented to be our guest speaker. The program will be Sunday, April 11th. All the sorors are wearing long dresses, and we do hope the time you spend with us will be enjoyable. Thank you again for accepting. Having read the inclosed printed matter, we can hardly wait to meet such a Gracious Soror. Fraternally Yours, Juanita S. Anderson Corr. Sec'ty. Chambers of the Surrogate's Court Bronx County Building BRONX, NEW YORK ALBERT H. HENDERSON SURROGATE March 17th, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, 1615 S Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: In response to your letter I am sending you a petition which you are to execute and return with a money order in the sum of 25 cents for certification fees. You will also find Thomas's letter, which I was very happy to have read. I am pleased to learn that he is living in such happy surroundings, and that he has done so well in his school work. I sincerely hope for a continuance of his well-being. Sincerely yours, A H Henderson Chi Eta Phi Sorority Alpha Chapter Washington, D.C. Basileus C. E. Beverly Anti-Basileus O. K. Larkins Grammateus L. M. Caver Epistoleus N. Vaucrossen Tamiouchos L. E. Moseley Sergeant-at-Arms A .P. Glenn Chaplain A. B. Kerrick Freedmen's Hospital, March 19, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, 1615 - S Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: At the request of the members of Alpha Chapter, Chi Eta Phi Sorority, I am herewith extending to you their heartfelt thanks and appreciation for your generous response in being guest speaker at the banquet given in honor of the new members on the evening of the 14th ult., at the Young Women's Christian Association. Be assured, Mrs. Terrell, that the occasion is one which will long be remembered in the history of the Sorority. Kindly accept best wishes and continued good health to carry on your many noble deeds in the interest of humanity. Very Sincerely yours, (Miss) Clara Beverly, R.N. , Basileus Nora J. Vaucrosson (Miss) Nora J. Vaucrosson, R.N. Epistoleus JOURNAL AND GUIDE THE HOME NEWSPAPER MEMBER OF AUDIT BUREAU OF CIRCULATIONS THE GUIDE PUBLISHING CO. INC. 711-723 EAST OLNEY ROAD NORFOLK, VA P.B. YOUNG, PRESIDENT H.C. YOUNG, SECRETARY ELEANOR W. YOUNG, TREAS. TELEPHONE 253319 March 19, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, NW Washington, D.C. My dear Mrs. Terrell: At long last we are ready to publish a review of your splendid book, and am writing to ask if it is convenient for you to send me one of your pictures, as I should like to carry your picture with the review. I hope that it is convenient for you to grant this request, and beg to remain with every good wish, Your sincerely, P. B. YOUNG, Editor JOURNAL AND GUIDE PBY:LHL American Friends Service Committee 20 South Twelfth Street Philadelphia Pennsylvania Telephone RITTENHOUSE 9372 Executive Secretary, CLARENCE E. PICKETT Chairman, RUFUS M. JONES Treasurer, WILLIAM R. FOGG Vice Chairmen D. ROBERT YARNALL HANNA CLOTHIER HULL SUMNER A. MILLS PEACE SECTION Chairman, EMILY COOPER JOHNSON Secretary, RAY NEWTON Associate Secretaries Harold Chance Guy W. Solt E. A. Schaal E. Raymond Wilson Wanneta Alice Chance Charlotte Salmon Dan Wilson Field Secretaries Max Burke Robert Rumsey Joseph Conard J. Olcutt Sanders Mary Morrissett Henry Wheeler Mrs. Robert Terrell 1615 S. Street N.W. Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: We invite you to attend the Twelfth Annual Institute of International Relations at Bryn Mawr College, June 27 to July 6, 1941. The Institute provides a faculty of able scholars who will lead a timely study in courses on "Trends Underlying World Affairs," "Democracy Faces World Change," "Religion Faces Revolt," and "Democracy at Work in the Community." The informal plan of the Institute results in a rare fellowship between the faculty and the very able group of delegates. Those who have attended before testify to the rich quality of the whole experience. We hope you can come yourself and that by sending in your registration now you will encourage others. Then too, will you try to have some of the organizations (church, college, civic) of which you are a member send official delegates. How many of these program folders can you use? Attendance at the Institute is limited to 160. Registrations will be accepted in order to be received. If you have friends that would be interested in the Institute please send us their names and addresses and we will gladly write to them. Very sincerely, E A Schaal E. A. Schaal EAS: ap Enclosure Member of the Audit Bureau Of Circulations Pittsburgh Courier 2628 CENTRE AVENUE PITTSBURGH, PA. Mayflower 1401 George S. Schuyler, Editor, The Feature Department, 270 Convent Avenue, New York, N. Y. March 20, 1941 My dear Mrs. Terrell: Thanks so much for promising to review "Crusader in Crinoline". It is a good book and has been well received. You will have it in a day or so. I happen to be so rushed at the present time that even wrapping up a book and taking it to the post office seems to be quite a chore. Your book is excellent. It is also one of the most devastating criticisms of the American scene that I have seen in many a day. The beauty of it is that, unlike most Negroes of your position, you were not optimistic and apologetic. You said, in effect, "There is how America treats a woman of culture-- America that boasts of its chivalry toward women!" I am very proud of you. The mere setting down of what you have accomplished in your lifetime is thrilling. I hope that book has a wide sale. I may even give it another "plug". Thanks so much for the folder. With best wishes, I am Sincerely yours, GEORGE S. SCHUYLER P.S. Will you please send the review to my New York address in about four weeks? 4754 Champlain Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, March 20, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, 1615 South Street, N.W., Washington, D. C. My dear Mrs. Terrell: Just a note to let you know that I received the autographed book for which I thank you very much. I am reading it and want you to know that it is very interest- ing. I am glad you enjoyed your stay in Chicago very much and hope you will come back again soon as well all enjoyed being with you. The reason for my not answering sooner is because of a fall which resutled in a broken finger and even now someone else is doing my writing. Thanks again for the book, I am, Your very truly, Minnie D. Smith (Mrs. T. M. Smith) MDS: es 709 S. Blount Street Raleigh, North Carolina March 21, 1941 Dear Soror Terrell: We are delighted to know that you will accept our invitation as guest speaker on May 4, 1941 at four thirty O'clock in GReen Leaf Hall, Shaw University. Your terms of railroad fare both ways and entertainment while here will be taken care of by us. We shall, also, give you honor- ium if we possible can. It has been our custom to have our guest speaker to speak over Raleigh Broadcasting Stations on the day before our annual chapel exercise, which will be Saturday afternoon, (May 3). As far as we know the broad cast will be at two o'clock. So we are won- dering if you could arrange to arrive here on Saturday morning or before that time. We are happy to inform you that our Colored Public Library does have a copy of your book "A Colored Woman in the White World". Please let us know what time to expect you. Sincerely yours, Ethel B. Lytle [signature] Ethel B. Lytle Corresponding Secretary. 10:45 P.M 5.35R_ 2:50-9:05 P.M Jacksonville, Florida, March 22-1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. My dear Mrs. Terrell; Kindly autograph and send a copy of the book to; Mr. Wm.Kelso, P.O. Box 1107, Alexandria, Louisiana. This order is in addition to the previous one. As soon as you have mailed the same, kindly inform me. Mr. Kelso, has already remitted. I am still having success in my canvass. I am expecting two other out of town orders, and as soon as rec'd I will have you auto- graph them and mail. Very truly yours, Robert T. Thomas [signature] Robert T. Thomas 987-W- 8th, St. 3701-16th St. N.W. March 22, 1941 My dear Mrs. Terrel: I have just finished reading your book. Permit me to congratulate you on such a splendid piece of work. It was as gratifying to me to think as I read, of the richness of your splendidly trained mind, Your excellent judgment and your Christian charity, which can only result from honest effort, hard study and hard work. I sincerely hope that the splendid work which you have begun amoung the people of your own race will have been the richest fruit and that sometime I may have the pleasure of meeting such a truly great woman. May God bless you. Cordially, (Miss) Florence M. Horejan. Wilmington Public Schools Wilmington Delaware S. M. Stouffer, Superintendent Howard High School Thirteenth and Poplar Streets George A. Johnson, Principal Nellie B. Taylor, Vice Principal March 24, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrel 1615 S. Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. My dear Mrs. Terrell: We are very glad that you will be our guest speaker for our annual Y.W.C.A. luncheon on Saturday, April, 5th at 1:00 P.M., for a woman of your rich and varied experience will bring us a very vital message; and we are honored. I spoke with other members of the Branch Committee after our telelphone talk Saturday night. They are all very anxious that you weave in parts of your auto-biography, but prefer that you address the group for about twenty, or twenty-five minutes. As we mentioned over the phone, the Wilmington group, unlike your group at Chicago, represents a cross section of varying economic levels. Please let us know if an honorarium of $20 is satisfactory to you. Hoping that our letters do not cross, and that I might hear from you in a day or so, I am Very sincerely, Nellie B. Taylor (Mrs. Nellie B. Taylor) NTB:c THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON March 24, 1941 My dear Mrs. Terrell: I am sorry that I have not had a chance to read your book. There seem to be so many things to do that it is difficult to find much time for reading. However, I have your book and will keep it on hand. Very sincerely yours, Eleanor Roosevelt MAX YERGAN EIGHT WEST FORTIETH STREET NEW YORK, N.Y. March 25, 1941 Mrs. Mary Church Terrell Washington, D.C. Dear Mrs. Terrell: The enclosed statement, on the position of the great bulk of Negroes in America, is one which I believe you will consider. If you are in substantial agreement with it, will you please let me know in the enclosed envelope? The statement is being sent to a number of responsible people whom I know. I list their names herewith. If a majority of them approved it, I propose to send it, over their names, to a larger number of individuals, to the press and to organizations. As I talk and correspond with large numbers of Negroes all over the country, and as I try to think into the issues confronting us, I am convinced that a general statement will be helpful. I hope it will be possible for you to sign the enclosed statement and thereby encourage more thought and action month our people, Yours sincerely, Max Yergan Max Yergan TO THE NEGRO PEOPLE A STATEMENT ON OUR PRESENT POSITION IN AMERICA At this crucial stage in our country's history there are mighty forces that seek to undermine democracy in the name of defending democratic rights. There is no section of the American people that feels the strain of those forces more deeply than the 13,000,000 Negroes who comprise the largest minority in our land. Discrimination, Jim Crowism, segregation and unemployment, from which the Negro people suffer in normal times, have become much more acute as the country drives to war. We are told that the "defense" program is to prepare the nation for a defense of democracy. Yet scarcely any feature of the program stands out more distinctly than the discrimination which is being enforced upon Negro Americans. While it is true that a Negro Brigadier General has been appointed -- widespread discrimination is being carried out against Negro draftees, and Negro participation in the expanding United States Army remains on a completely Jim Crow basis. It is still the shocking truth that in the Navy Negroes cannot rise higher than mess boys. To add insult to injury, eighteen young Negroes who had the courage to ask for that equality which they are guaranteed by the United States Constitution were recently "undesirably discharged" from the United States Navy. In the Air Corps the vicious policy of Jim Crowism is continued in the provision made for training a Negro pursuit squadron. This discrimination is in clear violation of the Constitution of the United States. Leaders of government who impose this "second rate citizenship" on the Negro people seek to justify themselves by claiming that integration of Negroes in the armed forces will be "destructive to morale". Their attitude is a serious challenge to the very heart of American democracy. In fact, these leaders have taken definite steps in the enforcing of Jim Crowism as a national policy. And today they carry this policy one step further in the exclusion of Negro workers from jobs in defense industries. This is true, particularly in the aircraft industries, but it extends to chemical, munitions, electrical, foundry and other industries. The job "boom" about which we have read much in the newspapers and heard from various officials has passed the Negro worker by. Tens of thousands of Negro youth wait with idle hands, because they are effectively barred from equal opportunity for training under federal vocational training programs. The Progressive sections of organized labor, notably in the C.I.O., and in some unions of the A.F. of L., have done yeoman service in improving the status of the Negro worker. But prejudiced elements that receive aid and comfort from the A.F. of L. bureaucracy merit and receive our condemnation for their continued policy of discrimination against the Negro worker and indifference towards his problems. Men who have enacted and executed our laws and control the economic life of our country have never seriously challenged the open fact of discrimination against Negroes in the job life of America. We declare ourselves unalterably opposed to Jim Crowism as a national policy. In housing conditions, we find Negroes still imprisoned within the slums which are undermining their health. We are disturbed that the original public housing programs of the federal and state government are being retarded. In the Southland a serious situation is developing in agricultural areas, particularly in cotton and tobacco production, where the Negro largely works and tries to eke out an existence. Disfranchisement, mob violence, lynching, as well as the constant abuse of the Negro people through press, book, radio, and movie, are further expressions of the denial of democracy to them. The operation of the vicious poll-tax in eight southern states is notorious. It denies to 4,000,000 Negroes and 6,000,000 whites the Constitutional right of a voice in choosing their municipal, state and federal representatives. Thus the economic and political security of the Negro -2- people deepens and spreads because of the cancer of Jim Crowism and other violations of Constitutional guarantees. We oppose such discriminations as the destiny of our people. We are compelled to call attention to the increasing manifestations of these ills against the Negro population. The enactment of anti-lynching and anti-poll tax laws and the removal of all discrimination would be to Negroes a clear indication of the democratic intentions of our government. But we have been given no such indication. On the contrary, in the name of "defense" and in the swift move towards war, our condition grows worse. While speeding to participate in a war, supposedly for freedom and democracy, our government denies both freedom and democracy to one-tenth of the American people. The Negro people cannot avoid the conclusion that the war-drive and the denial and destruction of democratic rights go together. It is impossible for us to see how democracy can be really defended when such evils plague the thirteen million black Americans within our country. It is impossible for us to see how a program of "national defense" can become a reality, when, in the very process, constitutional liberties are denied such a large segment of the population. Such is our situation here at home as it has developed and as it is affected by our country's involvement in the present war. The facts are equally alarming when we observe the unconcealed aims of the powers actually at war. The Negro people want nothing of Hitler; they detest him and all of his practices. The argument that British imperialism is a lesser evil is not supported by the facts. The British warmakers hold Africa, India, and the West Indies and other colonial areas in a cruel bondage often infinitely worse than the oppression known by Negroes in America. There are no indications that bondage will be voluntarily relinquished. Negroes will remember that it was the influential voice of Lord Halifax, present British Ambassador to the United States, which was so largely responsible for the decision of the League of Nations in 1938 to recognize the Italian fascist seizure of Ethiopia. We are seriously alarmed over the prospect of our government giving the material and human strength of America to the Imperialist forces of Great Britain. Those forces have cruelly exploited millions of peoples throughout the world since the beginning of the Slave Trade. Both Nazism and Imperialism are brutal oppressors of great masses of peoples. How can either of them wage a war for Freedom and Democracy? Along with our fellow Americans, we Negroes must see clearly through the fog of deception in the propaganda of press, radio, and other forces. Those forces would lead us to believe that a victory for Imperialism would secure our democratic rights. This is a contradiction and holds no hope for us. Our choice must be single and firm. We want democracy with equality in jobs, in our political life, and in the social institutions of our country, and we want peace in which to achieve these basic human rights. In the light of the above reasons we desire to see our country out of the present war. We Negroes remember how the last war destroyed many of our liberties and resulted in further cultural and economic impoverishment. We are convinced that the present war will do the same. Now is the time, we believe, for the Negroes of America to speak out. Now is the time for us to seek ways and means whereby American democracy, whose main source of strength lies in the Bill of Rights, can be brought to bear upon every phase of our daily life. We believe that our best interests lie with those of that great body of Americans, the common people of our country, who want peace and security based on a democratic way of life. We believe that all sections of the Negro people should today make their voices heard -- the laboring man, the sharecroppers and tenant farmers, the youth -- the women, the professional and business people -- people of all shades of political, religious, and social viewpoint. This is a time for unity -- unity for democracy here at home. We must speak out and state clearly our demands: We have the right and need to insist upon and work for the removal of all restrictions on the franchise and the complete abolition of the poll tax. We demand the abolition of all Jim Crow restrictions in civil life as well as in the armed forces. Finally we insist upon the opening up of all jobs, public and private, to Negroes on the basis of equality with whites. We set our compass in the direction of freedom, security and full citizenship rights. We want a democracy that is a living reality for all the people within it. PERSONS TO WHOM THE ENCLOSED STATEMENT IS BEING SENT Mrs. Robert S. Abbott Mrs. Fay Allen Bishop C. C. Alleyne Mr. Bertram Alves Dr. Charlotte Hawkins Brown Dr. Sara W. Browne Miss Thelma Dale Mr. John W. Davis Alderman Earl Dickerson Mr. Roscoe Dungee Miss Dorothy Height Dr. Leslie Pinckney Hill Mr. Charles H. Houston Rev. William Lloyd Imes Rev. William H. Jernagin Dr. Mordecai W. Johnson Dr. David D. Jones Mr. Madison Jones, Jr. Mr. Thomas Jones Mr. Edward C. Lewis Mr. Herman Long Dr. O. Clay Maxwell Dr. Benjamin E. Mays Mrs. Robert Russa Moton Dean W. Stuart Nelson Dr. Godfrey Nurse Mr. Clinton Oliver Dr. Frederick D. Patterson Dr. Charles A. Petioni Miss Harriet Pickens Dr. A. Clayton Powell, Jr. Bishop Reverdy Ransom Mr. Hopson Reynolds Bishop P. G. Shaw Bishop David H. Sims Mr. Ferdinand C. Smith Mr. C. C. Spaulding Mr. Edward Strong Mrs. Mary Church Terrell Mr. Raymond Tillman Dr. Howard Thurman Bishop W. J. Walls Hon. J. Finley Wilson Howard University Washington, D.C. Office of the President March Seventh 1941 Dear Mrs. Terrell: Mr. Nabrit has handed to me the very kind and thoughtful letter which you wrote to the Board of Trustees in connection with the testimonial given to me by the Trustees, Faculties, Employees, Alumni and Students of the University on Saturday evening, March first. The reading of this letter has warmed my heart. It will bring gladness to all the members of my family. I thank you for it. Sincerely yours, Mordecai W. Johnson President Mrs. Mary Church Terrell 1615 S Street, N. W. Washington, D. C. Opequon VA March 28th 1941, Dear Mrs. Terrell, No doubt you will be surprised to hear from me, I trust it will find you well. We did nicely with our Women's Day program only we were very much disappointed that the bad weather kept you from being with us. Every one was so much disappointed that they ask me to write and see if you would spend Mother's Day with us and gave us a talk. Your fair will be taken care off also you will be my guest. The folks seemed very much interested in your book and we need one for our school Library in Winchester especially. I am quite sure you will find May more pleasant than March for March sure gave us some real winter this year. With all good wishes, Yours sincerely Susan Tokes MRS. JULIA WEST HAMILTON PRESIDENT DOROTHY I. HEIGHT GENERAL SECRETARY PHYLLIS WHEATLEY YOUNG WOMEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION 901 Rhode Island Avenue, N.W. Telephone: North 9100 WASHINGTON, D.C. March 29, 1941 Dear Mrs. Terrell, On the closing day of National Negro Heath Week, Sunday afternoon, April 6th at 4 o'clock we are planning a program in honor of individuals who have mastered the art of keeping young and retaining their usefulness. Because we believe you are one of those individuals we are asking you to be a special guest at this service. We would greatly appreciate a few lines of your life history and a recent photograph if you have one available. We do hope you will attend and bring any friends who might be interested. Sincerely yours, Julia West Hamilton Julia West Hamilton President Ethel L. Nixon, M.D. Ethel Nixon Chairman of Health Committee AGENCY OF WASHINGTON COMMUNITY CHEST MEMBER OF THE YOUNG WOMEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FRIENDSHIP WASHINGTON, D.C. March 31, 1941 Dear Mrs. Terrell: Thank you for your nice note of March 20th. I am very sorry that I am not in a position to accept the book as it is contrary to my policy to accept gifts of any kind. Again thanking you for your nice note. Sincerely, Evalyn McLean NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF COLORED WOMEN, INC. CAPAHOSIC, VA. Organized in forty-two states Affiliated with Nat. Council of Women, U.S. Maintains Fred. Douglas Mem. Home, Wash., D.C. Est. nat. scholarship and nat. headquarters Jennie B. Morton, President Mrs. Arsania M. Williams, Vice Pres. Mrs. A. B. DeMent, Chm. Exec. Board Mrs. Sallie W. Stewart, Exec. Sect. Mrs. Ella P. Stewart. Treas. Mrs. Nettie L. Napier, Pres. Mem. & Hist. Assn. Miss Hallie Q. Brown, Chm. Nat. Scholarship. Fund Dr. Mary F. Warring, Ed. Woman's Mag. Mrs. Mary M. Bethune, Chm. Nat. Headquarters March, 1941 Dear Mrs. Terrell: Another Easter approaches, and with it the story of the suffering, the humiliation, and the triumph of Him Who Died That We May Live. As club women, whose motto is "Lifting As We Climb", I believe there is no group that has a greater opportunity, than we, to advance the teachings of the Christ, through working together, with genuine appreciation of, and consideration for, each other, ever cognizant of the truth that "Love never faileth". I know we have our difficulties, our disappointments, our sorrows, and our JOYS, for that is life. " Lift up your heads ye sorrowing ones, and be ye glad of heart, For CAVALRY and EASTER DAY, Earth's saddest Day, and gladdest Day, were just one day apart". Such a realization should serve to console us, and should make us increasingly determined to move forward. Beyond expression, we are grateful that a real Humanitarian presides over the destinies of our land, and that we are privileged to be citizens of a country whose constitution proclaims "Liberty and Justice for All". Letus, therefore, do our share in helping to make our Nation indivisible, and thus will we further the purposes of the National Defense Program, with loyalty as our watch-word, and service our delight. "And Fear Not, For He Is Risen, And Is Alive Forevermore". Faithfully and sincerely yours, Jennie B. Moton Mrs. Robert R. Moton. JBM/b Transcribed and reviewed by contributors participating in the By The People project at crowd.loc.gov.