SUBJECT FILE Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches, minutes and reports, 1930-35 June, 1931. MEMORANDUM AFFILIATION OF LOCAL INTERRACIAL GROUPS Submitted by The Commission on Race Relations, Federal Council of Churches During the past nine years of the activity of the Commission on Race Relations there has developed almost a nation-wide series of local interracial groups. Some of these are quite active locally; some are less so. Some of them are under the auspices of local federations or councils of churches. Others are not under any organizational auspices but are made up of representatives of a number of organizations such as the Federation of Churches, Y.M.C.A., Y.W.C.A.,and local social agencies. Still others are made up of representatives of the social and religious agencies of the community but are under the Council of Social Agencies. Very few of these groups are yet strong enough to have a local secretary. In few cases the local Council of Churches furnishes some executive service. In Illinois, New Jersey, and Ohio there have developed state committees for continuation of state interracial conferences and for the stimulation of local organization work. New Jersey now has volunteer executive service. For nine years this Commission has cooperated in work with the Commission on Interracial Cooperation in the South so as to avoid duplication of effort. During the past two years there has been considerable discussion outside of this Commission about the need and feasibility of uniting these locals in a national movement. The Federal Council of Churches and its Race Relations Commission maintain a national outlook and active connection with their constituency in all sections. Probably a majority of the individuals comprising the local interracial committees are connected with the constituent groups of the Federal Council. It seems logical therefore for this Commission to serve as the motivating force to affiliate these local committees into some kind of net-work. The following suggestions are based partly upon correspondences with some of the local groups and partly upon suggestions that have come from other directions. Affiliation of local interracial groups - 2 It is proposed to invite local interracial committees to become organizational associates of the Commission on Race Relations. This plan would involve the following from the local committees: 1. That when the local has developed to the point of an active program to meet one or more of the local interracial problems, it will be eligible to such affiliation. 2. That the local should be a definite organization of members substantially representing the religious and social organizations and forces of the community. The members may include Jews and Catholics, Y.M.C.A. and other representatives. 3. [That the local committee should guarantee to the national organization at least five local individual associates who would contribute not less than $5.00 each per year as a part of necessary cost of services from the movement.] 4. On the literature and letterheads of the local committee there should be printed "Associate of the Commission on Race Relations, Federal Council of Churches". In turn the Commission on Race Relations would undertake: 1. To act as a clearing-house for information and advice to the local committees. 2. To use funds available from the local associate-memberships and from other sources to cover correspondence and publication and traveling expenses of national staff officers for visitation of the locals. 3. To develop publication which would provide a clearance of information about the activities of the different locals and furnish other information from time to time as may appear to be of value to the locals. 4. To continue the preparation of pamphlet literature to be furnished (as is now done) to these local committees at cost of preparation, printing and handling. 5. To give each local committee a representative-at-large in the Commission on Race Relations, such representative to be nominated by the local committee and appointed in the regular manner by the president of the Federal Council of Churches. 6. To promote conferences for education and stimulation of public opinion and for any state-wide action that may be needed, and to cooperate in the organization and development of state and local interracial committees. The plan would contemplate a more active field service as soon as funds are available and as soon as possible the location of a field secretary probably in our western office at Chicago. Greater activity of local and state groups is also visualized in the plan in the holding of conferences and distribution of publications, etc. Minutes of the Meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Federation of Churches March 15, 1932 A meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches was held in the office of the Federation of Churches, Room 941, Woodward Building, on Tuesday March 15, 1932 at four o'clock. There were present: Dr. Anson Phelps Stokes, Chairman, Mrs. Slade. Mrs. Woolever, Rev. Robert Brooks, Mr. Johnson and Mr. Clarence Phelps Dodge. Rev. Dr. Darby was also present by invitation. The Chairman announced that he had received a letter from the Secretary, Mr. Scott to the effect that Howard University appointments would probably prevent his attendance, and forwarding the rough minutes of the meeting of May 29, 1931. The meeting was called to order by the Chairman and the members of the committee united in the Lord's Prayer. The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved subject to minor corrections. The Chairman spoke of the death of three members of the Committee since the last meeting, namely, Rev. Mr. King, Rev. Mr. Waldron and Mr. Cooper. The following minutes were adopted: The Committee of Race Relations wishes to place on record its very deep sympathy with the family of the late Rev. Mr. King, who was connected with the Committee from the time of its origin until his death last spring. The Committee will miss his deep interest and his sound judgement in all matters connected with improving relations between the races in the city. It holds him in high honor for the work that he did in the ministry of his church and as a citizen, and places on record this expression of its appreciation of his services. The Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches, at its first meeting after Dr. Waldron's death wishes to place on record an expression of its appreciation of his long service to the cause of the Negroes of Washington. It remembers his earnest advocacy of improved conditions in the alleys, his interest in the educational and spiritual welfare of the colored people and his desire to cooperate with white citizens in improving interracial conditions. The strong congregation which he built up is an enduring memorial to his earnest work as a Church pastor. This Committee will miss his active interest and his counsel and extends its deepest sympathy to his family. The Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches wishes to spread on its minutes and extend to the family of the late William Knowles Cooper an expression of their -2- sympathy in Mr. Cooper's death. Mr. Cooper was one of the earliest and most active members of this committee and was a man in whom the best element of both white and colored groups in this city had the greatest confidence. During his many years of service as General Secretary of the Washington Y.M.C.A. and in other ways he always showed a deep interest in the welfare of the colored people. He was a man of the highest Christian character, whose loss to the community is an irreparable one. This Committee will greatly miss his counsel and extends to his family its deepest sympathy. The Chairman stated that he had attended the funerals of all of these members, as a representative of the Committee. Voted: On nomination of Rev. Mr. Brooks, representing the Interdenominational Missionary Alliance, to invite Rev. H. B. Taylor, Pastor of the Fifteenth Street Presbyterian Church to the vacancy caused by Rev. Mr. King's Death. It was announced that Mr. Campbell Johnson had already been appointed during Mr. Waldron's illness to take his place on the committee. Voted: To inform the Federation of Churches that the Committee would be glad to have Dr. Mac Cracken, Associate Secretary of the American Council on Education, or Mr. Corrin Strong, elected in the place of Mr. Cooper. The Chairman announced that Miss Mulholland had recently completed a Scrap Book of exhibits in connection with her study of the treatment of the Negro in the white press of Washington and that this has been deposited with Miss Mulholland's manuscript in the Library of Congress. The Chairman presented various letters from Mr. Haynes on the subject of affiliation of the Committee with the Commission on Race Relations of the Federal Council of Churches. The affiliation proposed includes the following features. It is proposed to invite local interracial committees to become organizational associates of the Commission of Race Relations. This plan would involve the following from the local committees: 1. That when the local has developed to the point of an active program to meet one or more of the local interracial problems, it will be eligible to such affiliation. 2. That the local should be a definite organization of members substantially representing the religious and social organizations and forces of the community. The members will include Jews and Catholics, Y.M.C.A. and other representatives. 3. That the local committee should guarantee to the national organization at least five local individual associates who would contribute not less than $5.00 each per year as a part of necessary cost of service from the movement. 4. On the literature and letterheads of the local committee there should be printed "Associate of the Commission on Race Relations, Federal Council of Churches." -3- In turn the Commission on Race Relations would undertake: 1. To act as a clearing-house for information and advice to the local committee. 2. To use funds available from the local associat-memberships and from other sources to cover correspondence and publication and traveling expenses of national staff officers for visitation of the locals. 3. To develop publication which would provide a clearance of information about the activities of the different locals and furnish other information from time to time as may appear to be of value to the locals. 4. To continue the preparation of pamphlet literature to be furnished ( as is now done ) to these local committees at cost of preparation, printing and handling. 5. To give each local committee a representative-at-large in the Commission on Race Relations, such representative to be nominated by the local committee and appointed in the regular manner by the president of the Federal Council of Churches. 6. To promote conference for education and stimulation of public opinion and for any state-wide action that may be needed, and to cooperate in the organization and development of state and local interracial committees. After this diccussion it was voted : That this committee affiliate with the Commission on Race Relations of the Federal Council of Churches with the understanding: 1. That the Washington Committee will not lose its autonomy. 2. That as stated in Mr. Haynes' letter of October 8th no guarantee of contribution is necessary. It is understood that if this affiliation is made, the Washington Committee will continue its relationship with the Commission on Race Relations in Atlanta as Mr. Haynes states in his letters of October 9, 1931 and March 1, 1932 to be entirely possible. The chairman reported that a new interracial Committee had been formed under the auspices of the Washington branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. He said that it seemed to him well that there should be other committees in addition to the Committee of the Federation and that there was no reason why their work should overlap as the new committee will doubtless interest itself specially in the matters of the civil rights of the Negroes. He stated that the Chairman of the Committee was Mr. Charles Edward Russell; the Secretary, Miss Charlotte Atwood, and that the committee holds its meeting[s] on the fourth Monday of each month at the Phyllis Wheatley Y.W.C.A. It includes in its membership several members of this Committee, namely Rev. Mr. Brooks, Mrs. Mc Adoo, Rev. Mr. Taylor Mrs. Terrell, and Mr. Wilkinson. The Chairman stated that he had a] been invited to join but that owing to his forth coming absence from -4- the country on a year in Africa and Europe , it seemed inadvisable at least at this time. Dr. Darby reported that owing to the financial situation no progress had been made in the matter of the proposed Negro Church survey. The committee gave considerable time to the question of a meeting of the various agencies in Washington that had interracial committees. The following tentative list was prepared : The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, [*Mrs. Mary H. Skinner, Cardoza Highschool*] reported by Rev. Mr. Brooks The Friends Meeting , 1819 Eye Street of which Mrs. H. Stabler is President. The Bahaist Committee, of which Mr. Stanwood Cobb, Headmaster of the Chevy Chase School , is Chairman The Interracial Committee on Recreation [Committee] of the Council of Social Workers of which Mr. Campbell Johnson is the Executive. The Woman's International League of which Miss Dorothy Detzer of 1819 Eye Street is the Leader. [*Rev. Russel G. Clinchly 1844 Irving ????*] The International Council of the National Council of Congregational Churches , reported by Mrs. Slade. St. Monica's League , of which Mrs. John H. Young ,2212- R-St is President. The N.A.A.C.P. Group - Mr. Charles E. Russell , Chairman [*Miss Charlotte Atwood, 1315 T. Street Sector*] Voted : That is is the Committee's opinion that it would be highly desirable to have a meeting of the Federation's Committee and the new Committee of the National Association for the Advancement of the Colored People and of the other agencies named , at some convenient time to discuss matters in the interest of the welfare of the colored people, in Washington, and if possible this meeting be held prior to Dr. Stokes' sailing for Europe , May 25th. Voted : To recommend to the Federation of Churches that Dean Pratt act as Chairman of the Committee during Mr. Stokes' absence. Voted : That the officers of the Committee and Mr. Johnson be a committee to try to arrange for the proposed conference. Voted : That the Committee re-elect Dr. Brooks as Vice-Chairman and Mr. Scott as Secretary for the coming year. Being no further business the meeting adjourned at 5:30 Attest: Acting Secretary Washington, D.C. March 24, 1932 Minutes of the Meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Federation of Churches. April 27, 1932 A meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches was held in the office of the Federation of Churches, Room [941], Woodward Building, on Wednesday, April 27, 1932 at four o’clock. There were present Dr. Derby, Dean Pratt, Mrs. Slade, Mrs. McAdoo, Rev. Robert Brooks, Rev. Taylor and Mrs. Terrell. Dr. Darby called the meeting to order and stated that Dr. Anson Phelps Strokes would remain abroad for a year and that Dean Pratt had been elected to preside as Chairman of the Committee during his absence. Mrs. Terrell was elected secretary pro tempore. Dr. Darby stated that a vacancy on the Committee had been created by the death of Mr. William Knowles Cooper and that he had requested Dr. MacCracken, Secretary of the American Council on Education to fill this vacancy, but Dr. MacCracken had stated it was impossible for him to serve. Dr. Darby then wrote to Mr. Corrin Strong requesting him to become a member of this Committee but he had not yet received a reply. Dr. Darby then explained that the Committee on Race Relations consists of 18 members- 6 ministers, 6 laymen and six women. The 9 white members are elected by the Board of Directors and serve until their successors are elected. Dr. Brooks stated that the 9 colored members are elected by the Ministers Interdenominational Alliance. Dean Pratt expressed the hope that the colored members of the Committee would render active service and requested Rev. Brooks to ascertain whether they would do so. Rev. Brooks promised to comply with that request. A discussion arose concerning the relation of the local interracial Committee with the Commission on Race Relations of the Federal Council of Churches and it was voted to send for the letters on this subject which had been written by Dr. Haynes. It was also decided to ask Dr. Haynes when he could attend a meeting here so that he could give the Committee the information which it seeks. It was reported that there are in Washington 8 groups which are interested in Interracial affairs. It was the consensus of opinion that it would be wise for our Committee to meet with these groups and ascertain what work they are trying to do and avoid overlapping of efforts, if possible. Dr. Brooks moved that this Committee invite the other interracial groups to meet with us and to send two representatives from each one to give us an outline of their word. Motion carried. Mrs. Terrell moved that the Committee as a whole should extend the invitation to the interracial groups of the city. Carried. 2 Dr. Taylor moved that the joint meeting of the interracial committee should be held at the Y.W.C.A. 17th and K Sts at 3 o’clock Saturday afternoon, May 7th. Carried. Mrs. Slade stated that she wished to provide for the refreshments to be served on that occasion. Dr. Darby was extended a special invitation to be present [on that occasion] at this joint meeting. Mrs. Slade stated that she would notify representatives of the Women’s Inter[denomi]national League for Peace and Freedom, the Friends Interracial Committee and the Bahais. Rev Brooks promised to notify the representatives of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Alpha Kappa Alpha and the Council of Social Workers. Dr. Darby promised to notify the members of the Interracial Committee who were not present at today’s meeting. It was stipulated that all correspondence relating to this Interracial Committee should be sent out from the office of the Federation of Churches. Dean Pratt agreed to submit to the Committee the name of the person whom he wished to be secretary. when and Dean Pratt asked how often the Committee should meet. It was decided to meet once between now and July 1st. Meeting adjourned. Minutes of the Meeting of the COMMITTEE ON RACE RELATIONS OF THE FEDERATION OF CHURCHES. June 14, 1932. A meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches was held in the office of the Federation, June 14th at 4 o'clock. There were present, Dean Pratt, Dr. Darby, Rev. Taylor, Mrs. Willoughby and Mrs. Terrell. The minutes of two previous meetings, held on April 27 and on May 7 respectively, were read and approved. Dean Pratt suggested that the acting secretary be made the permanent secretary. Rev. Taylor moved that Mrs. Terrell be elected permanent secretary of the Committee on Race Relations of the Federation of Churches. Carried. Dean Pratt stated that since the Vice-Chairman and the Secretary of the Committee were colored, it might be wise to elect one of the white members as Vice-Chairman so that the offices would be evenly divided between the two races and these four officers might act together if it ever became necessary. Moved and carried that Mrs. Slade be made 2nd Vice-Chairman. Dean Pratt stated that there is a great advantage in having a stated time in which the Committee should meet. Rev. Taylor suggested that it might be a good thing to meet the same day on which the Interracial Committee of the N.A.A.C.P. meets. Dean Pratt stated that it was unwise to have the intervals between the meetings of the Committee too long. Frequent meetings are much better he thinks. Dr. Darby moved that we meet at 4 o'clock on the 4th Monday of every month during the months of September, October, November and December. Carried. Dean Pratt suggested that the next meeting of the eight Interracial Committee of the District should be held in October, and Saturday, October/5th be selected tentatively as the date. Dean Pratt suggested that there -2- might be an Art exhibit in some building suitable for such a purpose and there might be a public meeting in which medals might be awarded. The Art gallery at Howard University might be considered as a place in which this exhibit could be held. When reference was made to the Harmon Award, Dr. Darby stated that Mr. Harmon is dead and it is not at all certain that funds for these awards will be available in the future. Rev. Taylor suggested that a committee should be appointed to decide whether there shall be an art exhibit. Dr. Darby suggested that a committee should be appointed to seek opportunities for public meetings. Dean Pratt stated that Major Campbell Johnson is eager to improve and increase the recreational facilities for colored children and that he would like to have the committee assist in doing this. Dean Pratt suggested that we might help Mrs. Ida Taylor, who is employed by the Parent Teachers' Association to look after delinquent children, and who also works in the Juvenile Court. Rev. Taylor suggested that a committee might be formed from the eight interracial organizations to get publicity for our work in the press. A pamphlet might be sent to each member of Congress setting forth the facts about the lack of proper recreational facilities for colored children, for instance, and in that way might strengthen Campbell Johnson's hands. It will do a great deal of good he thinks to put the facts relating to the conditions confronting colored people in the city before the public. A large majority of the citizens do not know about them, he says. It would be a good thing to send to each pastor in the city a pamphlet, that would require about ten minutes to read, which would call attention to the lack of recreational facilities for colored children or to any other work in which we are interested. Dean Pratt emphasized the necessity of doing something. What can we do? he asked. He would like to make more vital contacts between the two races, -3- he said. Reference was made to a little printed sheet sent out by the Committee in Atlanta, Ga. This contains news about the activities of those interested in improving racial relations and it was suggested that our committee might furnish news for this small paper. Dr. Darby stated that Mrs. Archibald Hopkins had resigned from the Committee on account of ill health, and moved that her resignation be accepted with deep regret and expressions of appreciation for her valuable services. Carried. The secretary was instructed to write the letter notifying Mrs. Hopkins of this action taken by the Committee. Dean Pratt stated that it is all very well for us to come to meetings and express regret and sympathy, but it is incumbent upon the Committee to do something definite and tangible. Meeting Adjourned. [*??? medals bight be awarded- ??? be a meeting*] Minutes of the Meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Federation of Churches. June 14, 1932 A meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches was held in the office of the Federation June 14 at 4 o'clock. There were present. Dean Pratt, Dr. Darby. Rev. Taylor, Mrs Willoughby and Mrs. Terrell. The minutes of two previous meetings. held on April 27 and on May 7 respectively were read and approved. Dean Pratt suggested that the acting secretary be made the permanent secretary. Rev. Taylor moved that Mrs. Terrell be elected permanent secretary of the Committee on Race Relations of the Federation of Churches Carried. Dean Pratt stated that since the Vice Chairman and the secretary of the Committee were colored it might be wise to elect one of the white members as Vice chairman so that the offices would be evenly divided between the two race, so that if it ever became (2 these four officers might acto together. Moved and carried that Mrs. Slade be made 2nd Vice Chairman. Dean Pratt stated that there is a great advantage in havingastated timexx at which the Committee should meet. Rev. Taylor suggested that it might be a good thing to meet the same day on which the interracial Committee of the NAACP meets. Dean Pratt stated that it was unwise to have the intervals between the meetings of the Committee too long. Frequesnt meetings are much better he thinks. Dr. Darby moved that we meet at 4 o'clock on the 4th Monday of every month during the months of September, October, November and December. Carried. Dean Pratt suggested that [??] next meeting of the 8 interracial committees of the District should be held in October and Saturday, October 15th be selected tentatively as the date. Dean Pratt suggested that there might be an Art exhibit in some b. Reference was made to the Harmon Award. Dr. Darby stated that Mr. Harmon is dead and it is not at all certain that funds will be available in the future for these awards. Rev. Taylor suggested that a committee should be appointed to decide whether there shall be an art exhibit. Dr. Darbu suggested that a committee should be appointed to seek opportunities for public meetings. Dean Pratt stated that Major Campbell Johnson is eager to improve an increase the recreational facilities for colored children and that he would like to have the committee assist in doing this. Dean Pratt suggested that we might help Mrs. Ida Taylor who is employed by the Parent Teachers Association and who also works in the Juvenile Court to look after delinquent children Rev. Taylor suggested that a committee might be formed from the 8 interracial organizations to get publicity for our work in the press. A Pamphlet might be sent to each member of Congress setting forth the facts bout the lack of proper recreational facilities for colored children, for instance and in that way we might strengthen Campbell Johnson's hands. It will do a great deal of good he thinks to put the facts relating to the conditions confronting colored people in the city before the public. A large majority of the citizens do not know about them, he says. It would be a good thing to send to each pastor in the city a pamphlet [*???*] requiring about ten minutes to read which would call attention to the lack f recreational facilities for colored children or to any work in which we are interested. Dean Pratt emphasized the necessity of doing something. What can we do, He asked. He would like to make more vital contacts between the two races he said [*??? the Comm on Race Relations of the Wash Fed of Churches ???*] Congress of the United States House of Representatives Washington, D.C. Mr. Tom Cooline, 2919 Elias Court, Chicago, Illinois, Dear Sir: I beg to acknowledge receipt of yours with reference to certain pending legislation. Please be advised that I shall be glad to look into the matter you bring to my attention and I thank you for your communication. Respectfully yours, Reference was made to a little printed sheet sent out by the Committee in Atlanta, Ga. This contains news [information] about the activities of those interested in improving racial relations and it was suggested that our committee might furnish ite[*ms*] for this small paper. Dr. Darby stated that Mrs. Archibald Hopkins had resigned from the Committee on account of ill health and moved that her resignation be accepted with deep regreat and expressions of appreciation for her valua ble services. Carried. The secretary was instructed to write the letter notifying Mrs. Hopkins of this action taken by the Committee. Dean Pratt stated that it is all very well for us to come to meetings and express regret and sympathy, but it is incumbentupon the Committee to do something definite and tangible. [*Meeting adjourned*] MINUTES OF THE RACE RELATIONS COMMITTEE - OCTOBER 24, 1932 The meeting of the Race Relations Committee of the Washington Federation of Churches was held at the central office on October 24, 1932. Those present were: Dr. Pratt, chairman, Mrs. McAdoo, Major Johnston, Mr. Brooks, Dr. Darby and Mrs. Slade. After opeing the meeting with prayer, Dr. Pratt read a letter from Dr. Stokes from South Africa. Mrs. McAdoo then gave a report of the meeting of October 12th. The chairman then took up the question of the personnel of the Committee after which the following motion was passed: - That Mrs. Edgington be approved and recommended to the Executive Committee of the Federation of Churches as member of the Race Relations Committee in place of Mrs. Archibald Hopkins, resigned. The motion was then made, seconded and passed that Dr. Washington be approved and recommended to the Executive Committee of the Federation as a member of the Race Relations Committee. After informal discussion as to time of meeting, of representatives from other inter-racial groups, the motion was passed that such a meeting be held on December 3rd at the Y.W.C.A., 17th and K Streets at 2 o'clock. It was also moved, seconded and passed that the following be appointed a committee to plan program for that meeting. Mrs. Slade, chairman, Mrs. McAdoo, Dr. Taylor and Dr. Pratt, Ex Officio. Dr. Pratt then read a letter he had proposed sending to white clergymen of Washington suggestion ways of cooperation with the Race Relations Committee of the Federation of Churches. After which, the meeting adjourned. GERTRUDE M. SLADE Sec. Pro Tem The meeting of the Race Relations Committee of the Federation of Churches was held at the central office on October 24th ,1932. Those present were : Dr. Pratt, Chairman, Mrs. Mc Adoo, Major Johnson, Mr. Brooks , Dr. Darby and Mrs. Slade. After opening the meeting with prayer, Dr. Pratt read a letter from Dr. Stokes from South Africa. Mrs. Mc Adoo then gave a report of the meeting of October the 12th. The Chairman then took up the question of the personnel of the Committee after which the following motion was passed : That Mrs. Edgington be be approved and recommended to the [Executive Committee] Board of Directors of the Federation of Churches as member of the Race Relations Committee. After informal discussion as to time of meeting of representatives from other interracial groups, the motion was passed that such a meeting be held on December the third at the Y.W.C.A., 17th & K Streets at 2 o'clock. It was also moved, seconded and the motion passed that the following be appointed a committee to plan program for the meeting : Mrs. Slade, Chairman, Mrs. Mc Adoo, Dr. Taylor and Dr. Pratt, Ex-Officio. Dr. Pratt then read a letter he proposed sending to white clergymen of Washington suggesting ways of co-operating with the Race Relations Committee of the Federation of Churches- After which the meeting adjourned. (signed) Gertrude M. Slade Sec. Pro Tem A meeting of the Committee on Race relations of the Washington Federation of churches was held in its office at the Woodward Building on Tuesday Nov. 29, 1932 at four o'clock. There were present Dean Pratt, Chairman, Rev. Robert Brooks, Dr. Darby, Major Campbell Johnson, Mrs. McAdoo, Mrs. Slade, Rev. Taylor, Mrs. Terrell, Rev. Washington and Mrs. Woolever. The report of the Committee appointed to arrange for a joint meeting of the Interracial Committee of the District of Columbia was made by Mrs. Slade. They had decided to meet at the Y.M.C.A. 17th and K. Sts. Saturday afternoon Dec. 3rd from 2 o'clock till 3:30. Two from the 13 Interracial groups of the city were to be invited to attend the meeting. Some one would be invited to speak at this joint meeting and would be requested to present facts of an encouraging nature. Refreshments of some kind would be served. Dean Pratt then read the following letter which was to be sent to the white pastors of the city calling their attention to Interracial Sunday on February 12th, Lincoln's Birthday and requesting them to participate in its observance. Mrs. Woolever suggested that the Church school and the Bible Class be included in the organization mentioned. Dr. Darby stated that such a letter would start a movement to bring about a better understanding between the races. He hda seen several encouraging signs, he said , that this had already taken place. Churches which once had been antagonistic were much more liberal now. The members present then engaged in a discussion concerning the manner in which the Interracial Sunday had best be conducted. Dr. Darby suggested that the ministers invited to observe Interracial Sunday should either phone or write their replies directly to Dean Pratt. It was also suggested that this Committee's plan to observe Interracial Sundayshould be sent as a news item to the Federal Council of Churches of Christ for publication. The advisability of holding a mass meeting was discussed and it was decided that it should be postponed for the present. Rev. Robert Brooks called the Committee's attention to the fact that the recreational facilities offered colored people at Rock Creek Park were far from satisfactory and that sections allocated to our group are both inferior and limited. The next meeting of the Committee will be held January 23rd. Meeting adjourned, Dean Pratt, Chairman, Mary Church Terrell, Secretary. A meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches was held at the McLachlen Building, 10th and G Sts. N.W. on Monday, Feb. 27, 1933 at four o'clock. There were present Dean Pratt, Chairman, Rev. Robert Brooke, Dr. Darby, Dodge, Mrs. Edgington, Mrs. McAdoo. Mrs. Terrell, Rev. Washington and Mrs. Woolever. Dean Pratt stated that he had written a letter to the manager of the National Theatre about the excluding of Colored people from that theatre when Green Pastur s, a play with an all colored cast, would be produced, but had received no reply. Miss Jones, representing the Interracial Committee of the Friends International League for Peace and Freedom for the District of Columbia had gone to see the manager but had got no satisfaction. Dean Pratt stated that in dealing with this discrimination against colored people his hands were tied because of the attitude of the Christian Churches. Dean Pratt stated that Major Campbell Johnson's address had been published. By common consent it was decided to send a copy of this address to each of the white ministers of the city accompanied by a letter in which they should be informed that other copies would be available, if they desired them. By common consent it was also agreed that copies of Major Johnson's address should be sent to the members of the District Committee of both the Senate and the House, to each of the Interracial groups, to the Manufacturer's Association, to the Board of Trade and to the Chamber of Commerce. The Committee appointed by the Chairman to consider ways and means of making contacts with individual churches or groups without publicity which consisted of Major Johnson, Chairman, Mrs. McAdoo and Mrs. Slade reported that they had been to see 15 or 18 ministers and had met with a cordial reception. Each one of the ministers declared he wants to do something to promote fellowship between the two races but under present conditions feels that it is difficult to do so. Re Rev. Robert Brooks declared that he had spoken at the Potomac Park Christian Church, Rev. Elmore Turner, pastor, and had been most cordially received by the congregation. Some of the members remained after the services to talk with him and Mrs. Brooks. The young people of Rev. Brooks Church were invited to take charge of a service at the Potomac Park Christian Church under the leadership of Mrs. Brooks. Dean Pratt stated that 8 or 9 ministers had referred to the letter he had written calling their attention to Interracial Sunday and had manifested interest in it. Some of them said that they would hesitate to arrange an exchange of pulpits with anybody because their respective congregations expected them to take charge of the Sunday services themselves. Mrs. Woolever declared that the hope of establishing more friendly relations between the two races lies with the young people. Mrs. McAdoo stated that 16 of the K St. Staff of the Y.W.C.A. had visited the Phyllis Wheatley Y and that they had a most satis factory meeting. Dr. Darby spoke in the highest praise of an address delivered by 2 Dr. Thurman, of the Howard University School of Religion, and stated that it might have been acceptably delivered in any church in Washington. Mrs. Edgington stated that a colored woman from Chicago had applied for admission to the School of Religion at the Y.M.C.A. and had been refused. When the Presbyterians had their own school, she said, no distinction on account of color was made. By common consent it was decided to hold another joint meeting of the Interracial groups of the city and that each of the 14 or 15 groups be invited to participate. Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Mar.18 at the Phyllis Wheatley Y.W.C.A. were the time and place selected for this meeting. It was also agreed that a white woman be invited to speak on that occasion. The Chairman was requested to select the speaker. During the meeting Dean Pratt read a letter from Mrs. Ida Taylor, Juvenile Court Social Worker, representing the Parent Teachers Association in which she suggested that the Interracial Committee might assist in improving the condition of the colored children of the District in several ways- By reconditioning the Benneker Center, by leveling the adjacent playground and equpping it for play. By providing a Social Settlement House in the Northwest. for mal-adjusted and unsupervised children. In connection with this a Day Nursery for the children of working mothers, employed from 7:00 A.M. till 9:00 P.M. An Employment Agency. Playground space for the children in the vicinity of Fierceand Pierce Sts. N.W. where the Douglass-Simmons School is located. A Community Center or a Social Settlement House be provided for the [remove section of Deerwood.] The meeting was adjourned to meet March 27th or at the call of the Chairmans consent it was decided to invite Canon Anson Phelps Stokes to speak for the Interracial Committee as soon after he returns from his trip abroad as possible. The meeting adjourned to meet the fourth Monday in March or at the call of the Chairman. Dean Pratt, Chairman. Secretary. A meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches was held at the McLachlen Building, 10th and G Sts. N.W. on Monday, Feb. 27th, 1933 at four o'clock. There were present Dean Pratt, Chairman, Rev. Robert Brooks, Dr. Darby, CP Dodge, Mrs. Edgington. Mrs. McAdoo. Mrs. Terrell, Rev. Washington and Mrs. Woolever. Meeting was opened with prayer by the Chairman. Dean Pratt stated that he had written a letter to the manager of the National Theatre about the excluding of Colored people from that theatre when Green Pastures, a play with an all colored cast, would be produced, but had received no reply. Miss Jones, representing the Interracial Committee of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom for the District of Columbia had gone to see the manager but he got no satisfaction. Dean Pratt stated that in dealing with this discrimnation against colored people his hands were tied because of the attitude of the Christian Churches. The Committee was informed that Major Campbell Johnson's address had been published. By common consent it was decided to send a copy of this address to each of the white minister's of the city accompanied by a letter in which they should be informed that other copies would be available, if they desired them. By common consent it was also agreed that copies of Major Johnson's address should be sent to the members of the District Committee of both the Senate and the House, to each of the Interracial groups, to the Manufacturer's Association, to the Board of Trade and the Chamber of Commerce. The Committee appointed by the Chairman to consider ways and means of making contacts with individual churches or groups without publicity which consisted of Major Johnson, Chairman, Mrs. McAdoo and Mrs. Slade reported that they had been to see 15 or 18 ministers and had met with a cordial reception. Each one of the ministers declared he wants to do something to promote fellowship between the two races be under present conditions feels that it is difficult to do so. Re Rev. Robert Brooks stated that he had spoken at the Potomac Park Christian Church, Rev. Elmore Turner, pastor, and had been most cordially received by the congregation. Some of the members remained after the services to talk with him and Mrs. Brooks. The young people of Rev. Brooks Church were invited to take charge of a service at the Potomac Park Christian Church under the leadership of Mrs. Brooks. Dean Pratt stated that 8 or 9 ministers had referred to the letter he had written calling their attention to Interracial Sunday and had manifested interest in it. Some of them said that they would hesitate to [invite a minister to] arrange an exchange of pulpits with anybody because their respective congregations expected them to take charge of the Sunday services themselves. Mrs. Woolever declared that the hope of establishing more friendly relations between the two races lies with the young people. Mrs. McAdoo stated that 16 of the K St. Staff of the Y.W.C.A had visited the Phyllis Wheatley Y and that they had had a most satisfactory meeting. Dr. Darby spoke in the highest praise of an address delivered by 2 Dr. Thurman, of the Howard University School of Religion, and stated that it might have been acceptably delivered in any church in Washington. Mrs. Edgington stated that a colored woman from Chicago had applied for admission to the School of Religion at the Y.M.C.A. and had been refused. When the Presbyterians had their own school she said, no distinction on account of color was made. By common consent it was decided to hold another joint meeting of the Interracial groups of the city and that each of the 14 or 15 groups be invited to participate. Saturday afternoon at 2 o'clock, Mar.18 at the Phyllis Wheatley Y.W.C.A were the time and place selected for this meeting. It was also agreed that a white woman be invited to speak on that occasion. The chairman was requested to select the speaker. During the meeting Dean Pratt read a letter from Mrs. Ida Taylor Juvenile Court Social Worker, representing the Parent Teachers Association in which she suggested that the Interracial Committee might assist in improving the condition of the colored children of the District in several ways- Recondition the Banneker Center, by leveling the adjacent playground and equpping it for play. Providing a Social Settlement House in the Northwest. for mal-adjusted and unsupervised children. In connection with this a Day Nursery fr the children of working mothers, employed from 7:00 A.M. till 9:00 P.M. An Employment Agency. Give a Playground to the children in the vicinity of First and Pierce Sts. N.W. where the Douglass-Simmons School is located. Provide a Community Center or a Social Settlement House for the remote section of Deanwod. By common consent it was decided to invite Canon Anson Phelps Stokes to speak for the Interracial Committee as soon after he returns from his trip abroad as possible. The meeting adjourned to meet the fourth Monday in March or at the call of the Chairman. Dean Pratt, Chairman. Secretary. A meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches was held at the McLachlen Building, 10th and G Sts. N.W. on Monday April 24th at 4 o' clock. The Chairman opened the meeting with prayer. There were present Dean Pratt, Chairman, , Rev. R. W. Brooks, Dr. Darby, Mrs. McAdoo, Rev. Taylor and Mrs. Terrell. Minutes of the [March] February meeting were read and approved. There was no meeting in March. A letter has been received from Dr. Anson Phelps Stokes in which he suggested that the meeting at which he has been invited to speak should be held in the Fall rather than in June as had been planned by this Committee. The Chairman announced the death of Rev. W.L. Washington, a member of the Race Relations Committee and the Secretary was instructed to send a letter of condolence to Mrs. Washington. It was decided that Mr. Campbell Johnson and this Committee should get a list of the colored churches in the District of Columbia. It was suggested that a couple of young men might go in an automobile block by block to get a complete list of the store front churches of which there are probably at least 100, it is thought. Dean Pratt offered to assist along financial lines. Dr. Darby stated that further information should be obtained about several matters relating to the colored churches of the city. At present everything is pure guess work, he said. [The names] There should be a list of all the colored churches with their addresses, the names of the pastors with their addresses and the membership in each church. In this record, it should be stated whether each church has a Sunday School, if so, the membership of this Sunday School, what kind of work is being done for young people, what is the equipment of the church, what kind of music is furnished, whether there is an organ, if so, whether there is a pipe organ, the name of the organist, and other essential facts together with accurate figures. An attempt was made two years ago to obtain such a record and letters were sent to the pastors who were requested to furnish the facts, but few replies were received, it was said. It was decided to appoint a Committee to cooperate with Mr. Campbell Johnson to ascertain the facts about the colored churches, Dean Pratt said that after getting the list of the colored churches of the District it should be made the basis of further investigation. He referred to a book, "The Negro's Church" which contains a wealth of facts concerning the Negro's loyalty to his church, his needs and a sample of Negro sermons. Dean Pratt stated that he had visited Mr. Elliot and found him most enthusiastic about the program of the Banneker System which Miss Sybil Baker had outlined. The plan would have been carried through if it had been approved by Congress, he said. When there are Congressional hearings on the projects in which we are interested, Dean Pratt advises that [those of us] it would be well for us to attend them. He thinks it would do good. Dean Pratt thanked the Committee on Race Relations for cooperating with him so finely as it had. A letter was read from Mrs. Slade stating that she had so many and such pressing duties connected with the Y.W.C.A. that she would be obliged 2 to resign as a member of the Race Relations Committee. It was moved unanimously and heartily carried that Mrs. Slade be requested to retain her membership on the Committee in spite of her other duties. There was a general discussion on the desirability of securing people on the Committee who are sufficiently interested in the work to attend the meetings. The names of several were mentioned who have not attended a meeting for one year. [and in] Some have not attended a meeting for two or more years. Dr. Taylor and Rev. Brooks were appointed [a committee] to select a third man from the Baptists. Mrs. McAdoo and Mrs. Terrell were requested to submit the name of a woman who might serve on this Committee. The Board of Directors is the appointing power. Dr. Darby explained, and assumes the responsibility of naming the people who are to serve. It was the consensus of opinion that we postpone the meeting of the Interracial group in June, as it had been planned. Meeting Adjourned, Dean Pratt. Chairman. Mary Church Terrell, Secretary A meeting of the Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches was held at the McLachlen Building 10th and G streets N.W. on May 22, 1933 at 4 o'clock. [There were] The Chairman opened the meeting with prayer. There were present Dr. Brooks, Dr. Darby, Dean Pratt, Mrs. Terrell and Mrs. Woolever. Dr. Darby stated that Dr. Ralph B. Kennard would take Dr. Bowen's place on the Committee. Negotiations are underway he said to find someone who will take the place of Dr. Strong who is unable to serve. Although he is interested and willing to do so he feels that his time is so occupied that he cannot do justice to himself or the Committee. Dr. Brooks who had been requested to suggest the name of a colored man to be placed on the Committee and Mrs. Terrell who had been designated to present the name of a colored woman for the same service made no report. Rev. Brooks said he would see Dr. Emmett Scott and W.H.C.Brown to ascertain whether they were willing to serve on the Committee. Rev. Brooks' report to Dr. Darby would be equivalent to an election, it was said. Dr. Haynes had sent an outline on the unemployment situation which might be used as a circular letter and sent to pastors, Dr. Darby stated. He had received four replies to it. Dean Pratt suggested that as soon as Canon Stokes returns in June we should get in touch with him and arrange for the meeting which he is to address in the Fall. The members of the Committee discussed the place and the date on which the meeting should be held. Should a white or a colored church be selected? Rev. Brooks suggested that the First Congregational Church has to charge for the use of the building, since thousands of dollars for coal and electric light are expended every year. If the charge should not be more than $10 or $15, it was stated, this expense might be met. The program was then discussed. It was decided that the students of Howard University should be invited to sing, [and that] Canon Stokes should be given an hour for his address and that we should then adjourn. Dean Pratt stated that he would be absent from the city when Canon Stokes arrived and Dr. Darby volunteered to make arrangements for the meeting as soon as he could see him. It was decided to give Canon Stokes two or three [?] dates from which to choose. Dr. Darby and Rev. Brooks, Vice Chairman, would then arrange the meeting accordingly. Dr. Haynes of New York wrote to inquire how data about colored churches in other places had been obtained. Dean Pratt stated that he would confer again with Secretary Campbell Johnson about [?] [?] securing facts concerning the colored churches of this city. Miss. Elizabeth W. Murray who is employed by the Federation of Churches to visit hospitals and carry comfort to the sick has requested this Committee to secure the cooperation of colored ministers upon whom she may call to visit patients who are not members of any church. About 75% of these patients are not members of any church, it was stated. [?] The preachers have formed a Committee whose members will be on duty at any time of the day or night. A minister is appointed to take charge of this work for [one] each month of the year. 2 A letter was received from Mr. Jesse M. Bader, Associate Sec'y in the Department of Evangelism of the Federal Council of Churches suggesting that a series of Conferences of colored ministers of the city be held. Dr. Darby heartily approved od it and stated that last year such a meeting had been held at the Calvary Baptist Church and two other meetings in different parts of the city. Rev. Brooks moved that this Committee approve of this plan and work it out. It was decided to invite Dr. Bader to be at the McLachlen Building Thursday at 2:30 o'clock to confer with Rev. Taylor, Rev. Brooks and Dean Pratt. Dean Pratt suggested that Dr. Darby and Rev. Brooks should decide whether there shall be a meeting in June. Secretary Campbell Johnson and Dean Pratt were requested to ask the white ministers to have some prominent colored pastors [?] address the young people of their respective churches. Meeting adjourned. Dean Butler D. Pratt, Chairman Mary Church Terrell, Secretary [*See Page 2*] REPORT of the Conference on the Betterment of Race Relations in Washington, D. C. HELD UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches in the NEW YORK AVENUE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12TH, 1935 REPORT of the Conference on the Betterment of Race Relations in Washington, D. C. HELD UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches in the NEW YORK AVENUE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12TH, 1935 COOPERATING ORGANIZATIONS Interracial Committee of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Friends' Peace Committee. Saint Monica's League. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Xi Omega Chapter. Howard University. Interracial Committee of the Council of Social Agencies. College Alumnae Club, Howard University. Department of Social Welfare of the Protestant Episcopal Diocese of Washington. PREFATORY NOTE The purpose of the Conference was to study certain phases and problems of our city life and to "Create More Christian Attitudes and Practices in Race Relations in Washington." Four Round Table Conferences were held, followed by a joint public session, at which a summary of these conferences was given and a statement made of present church attitudes and activities in regard to race relations, together with suggestions for a more effective church program. The evening session was devoted to inspirational addresses by Professor Charles T. Loram of Yale University and Dr. Channing H. Tobias of New York City. Music was furnished by the Women's Glee Club of Howard University. Special mention should be made of the interracial luncheon, which over taxed the capacity of the dining room of the church, and of the remarkable address of Dr. Joseph R. Sizoo, pastor of the entertaining church, who presided. This address is to be published elsewhere. The Committee on Race Relations thanks all who contributed in any way to the success of the Conference. D. Butler Pratt, Chairman, former Dean of School of Religion, Howard University. Robert W. Books, Vice Chairman, Pastor Lincoln Congregational Temple. Mrs. Mary Church Terrell, Secretary, former member D.C. Board of Education. Anson Phelps Stokes, Canon Washington Cathedral. Edward O. Clark, Pastor Chevy Chase Baptist Church. E. D. W. Jones, Bishop of the A. M. E. Zion Church. Clarence Phelps Dodge, President of the Community Chest. Elwood Street, Director of Public Welfare, D.C. Ralph B. Kennard, Professor, Wilson Teachers College. Campbell C. Johnson, Secretary, 12th Street Branch, Y.M.C.A. Carter G. Woodson, Editor of the Journal of Negro History. W. H. C. Brown, President of the Industrial Bank. Mrs. Frank Edgington, President of Missionary Society, N. Y. Avenue Presbyterian Church. Mrs. David W. Lum, former Missionary to China. Miss Margaret Jones, Secretary of the Friends Meeting. Mrs. Martha McAdoo, Secretary, Phyllis Wheatley Y.W.C.A. Mrs. E. E. Just, Chairman, Girls' Reserve Work, Y.W.C.A. William L. Darby, Ex officio,, Executive Secretary, Washington Federation of Churches. 2 I REPORT OF THE ROUND TABLE ON "HOUSING AND ALLEYS" Mr. John Ihlder, Director of the Alley Dwelling Authority, D. C., and Professor Hilyard R. Robinson, Department of Architecture, Howard University, Co-Chairmen. Leaders of the Discussion, Mr. Walter S. Ufford, former Secretary of the Associated Charities, and Dr. Robert C. Weaver, Director of Negro Economic Affairs, Dept. of the Interior. Rev. E. O. Clark, Summarizer. PAPER PRESENTED BY THE CO-CHAIRMEN There can be no real or permanent improvement in housing conditions unless all the dwellings of a community meet good standards. For under stress we tend to slip back, to accept the lowest types of shelter. Witness the fact that we are today erecting in the District of Columbia shack communities comparable to those erected in the alleys during and after the Civil war. So long as hovels or shacks exist, so long as there are habitations without proper water supply or toilets, so long as we permit the erection of dwellings, for either the rich or poor, that contain windowless rooms, or rooms inadequately lighted and ventilated, just so long will any gain in one direction be negatived by losses in others. Consequently an effective housing program must have in view: 1. The demolition of all unfit dwellings. So long as an unfit dwelling stands there is danger that it will be occupied. 2. The proper maintenance, repair, or modernization of dwellings worth the investment. The ownership of real estate involves an obligation to the community. Those who are financially unable to discharge this obligation should not own real estate. 3. The erection of new dwellings adequate in number, type and size to meet the needs, and, so far as practicable, the desires of the population. A dwelling is more than a sanitary habitation. This program, obviously, is designed to assure an adequate supply of proper dwellings for every economic group in the community. Equally obviously the lowest of these groups can not, today, pay for a proper dwelling a rental that will yield any net return on the investment. Yet the members of the lowest economic groups must have proper dwellings. To meet this condition a housing program will assume the utilization of: 1. Private capital and private enterprise under government regulations, and 2. Public capital and government enterprise, in accordance with a well defined policy and good standards of performance. Utilization of private capital and private enterprise must be under governmental regulation, because the government has a permanent 3 permanent interest in the way its territory is developed, in the kind of buildings erected, while the interest of those who furnish private capital and direct private enterprise is temporary. Our slums of today are among the heaviest financial liabilities of the government, particularly the municipal government. But of those who created the slums by far the greater part no longer have a direct financial interest in them. Utilization of private capital and private enterprise must be be in accordance with a well-defined policy and good standards of performance in order to protect the community, as distinguished from its government, against evils due to uncertainty, unwarranted extension of governmental activities, extravagance, political corruption and a lowering of standards in the face of financial or technical difficulties. It is to be remembered that the traditional function of government in America has been to supervise and regulate private enterprise. During recent years it has increasingly assumed the function of a facilitator—from the beginning the government has practically monopolized the business of carrying the mails in order to facilitate other business; it has dredged channels and harbors in order to facilitate commerce; it has taken over the old toll roads and bridges in order to facilitate communication; it has greatly expanded the business of gathering, marshalling and distributing information in order to facilitate sound development and investment programs. Now the government is going into a field that is new for it in America, that of a participator. This new function of government in America involves significant changes in relationships. Of these none is more important than that government is now subject to the same temptations as is the private enterprise which in the past it supervised and regulated. It must supervise and regulate itself—admittedly of all things the hardest. And as government is a subject to human weakness as are the people from whom is drawn its personnel, it must be strengthened and guided by a well informed public opinion.This will involve the creation or the development of competent citizen organizations whose purposes are to aid in developing sound public policy, to support able and conscientious public officials and to oppose those who are not able and conscientious. Since the field of government participation is a new one in America, it is especially important that citizen agencies or other responsible groups shall now aid in the development of sound policy. In housing it is sound policy for the government to use public money and to undertake by means of public agencies: 1. Redevelopment of slums or blighted areas. 2. Provision of low-cost housing for those whose needs are not met by private enterprise. 4 It is recognized that: 1. So far as is practicable, every member of the community between childhood and old age should be self-supporting. 2. The services of the government are dependent upon revenues derived from the direct or indirect earnings of its citizens. So these revenues are limited. 3. The cost of housing is so great that, even if such a policy were socially desirable, which it is not, housing cannot be furnished free by the government to every citizen. 4. Therefore the cost of housing is an essential factor in self-support. But, it is also recognized that: 5. There are groups in the community unable to pay the cost of proper housing. It is further recognized that: 1. The cost of housing should be reduced by every practicable means; economies in the development of sites, in financing, in management, etc. 2. The earning ability of tenants should be increased by every practicable means, education and training, removal of physical and other handicaps, cure and prevention of disease, etc. But when all this has been done there will still remain families unable to pay for the cost of proper housing. These families are the responsibility of the community. They must be properly housed. This may be done in one of two ways: 1. By subsidizing the house. 2. By giving adequate relief. Of these two ways the second is preferable because it is sound economic practice leading to family self-support. THE INHABITED ALLEYS The replacing and redevelopment of the inhabited alleys of Washington fits into this housing program. These alleys, and in large proportion the squares that contain them, should be converted to that use which will prove of most benefit to the community. This will, in many cases, necessitate the removal of present alley dwellers. Those of the alley dwellers who can should find their own new homes. Others should be aided by the casework and relief agencies. If there is a shortage of proper dwellings governmental agencies should provide additional ones. This paper was supplemented by a statement by Mr. Walter S. Ufford, who gave a vivid description of present deplorable conditions of housing in Washington, among them high rents, over-crowding and low wages, which make it impossible to pay rent that will secure a proper dwelling. Dr. Robert C. Weaver called attention to the lack of houses available, to the cost of intown sites and to the consequent need for opening new outlying areas for low cost housing. 5 Mr. Walter S. Pratt urged that a generous proportion of the government appropriation be devoted to housing. Mr. John Murchison added that relief labor might well be used in developing better housing conditions. EXTRACTS FROM THE SUMMARY BY REV. E. O. CLARK "The Round Table was impressed, first of all, with the extreme importance of this problem. Housing affects for good or ill the entire community with respect to health, sanitation, morals, delinquency, crime, relief and self-respect. The crowded condition in some sections of Washington is alarming. In a recent survey of some 6,500 families, 24 per cent were found to be living in one room. It was pointed out that the alley dwellers number about 10,000 people, living in about 200 blocks and that 95 per cent of these people are Negroes. These slum conditions in Washington are among the heaviest financial liabilities the District government has and under private enterprise alone the solution of this problem is not possible. "The conference was of the opinion that the Alley Dwelling Authority for the District of Columbia should be allotted an adequate sum from the New Emergency Relief Fund to enable the National Capital to remove its slums and thus set an example for the whole nation; that, in the use made of this money, a due proportion should be expended for direct relief employment; and that the Negro worker should be given a just share of such employment. While adequate housing is a direct government responsibility, its success depends very largely upon an enlightened public opinion." II REPORT OF THE ROUND TABLE ON "HEALTH AND RECREATION" Dr. Edwin B. Henderson, Head of Department of Health and Physical Education, Public Schools, Division 10-13, and Loren B. T. Johnson, M. D., Chairman of the Health Committee of the Council of Social Agencies, Co-Chairmen. Mr. Ross Garrett, Health Secretary of the Council of Social Agencies and Mr. Marshall C. Finnan, Superintendent of the National Capital Parks, opened the discussion. Rev. Russell J. Clinchy gave the summary. Unfortunately for the purposes of publication, the only paper presented was that of Dr. Henderson, all of the others speaking extemporaneously. His address, somewhat abridged, follows: "HEALTH AND RECREATION" Today more people than ever before are interested in recreation. For years some of us have been urging educators to recognize the 6 value of play, recreation and health in education, We have insisted that education of and through the body is essential in a school program. There is no problem to be discussed here today that is not vitally connected with the field of health and recreation. The implications of health and recreation are evident to all of you in your thinking about the problems of Housing and Alleys, Employment and Relief, and Delinquency and Crime. Recreation is a prime factor in the solution of the last two. Unemployment means that millions of men and women throughout the nation, through no fault of their own, find themselves possessors of an enforced leisure with which they know not what to do. There will be need for many readjustments in industry and in many social relationships. Some of these will be painful, and some will require the purest of minds and the stoutest of hearts to see them through. With regard to recreation and crime and delinquency, the District Attorney of Philadelphia, Charles Edwin Fox, studied a district for 5 years before and a like period after the establishment of playgrounds. He says, "I discovered the remarkable fact that in the five years of playground recreation the neighborhood shows a 50 per cent decrease in juvenile delinquency, as compared with previous years." In Visalia, Calif. a study by the probation office reported an 80 per cent decrease in juvenile delinquency following the opening of playgrounds. Louis Brownlow, former District Commissioner, when City Manager of Knoxville, Tenn., claimed that juvenile delinquency decreased 50 per cent after establishment of playgrounds there. In 1930, in Washington D. C., the total cost of crime was $4,485,000 or $9.21 per capita. If the playgrounds, etc. have held down delinquency by a bare 8 per cent, it has more than paid for its total cost in reduced tax payer's cost of crime. Recreation is now a much broader concept than formerly. The use of leisure for recreation of body, mind and spirit includes, of course, much besides physical play. A comprehensive program reorganizes the varied needs and interests of all men, women and children, physical, mental, social. It is concerned with appreciation of art, music, reading, dramatics, handcrafts, and nature study. In this larger field of recreational opportunity are some of the most perplexing and devastating problems. First, we must understand racial and interracial attitudes. These are largely matters of custom and tradition. For centuries, race was discussed with a view to study race differences, race traits, both inherent and acquired. With the trend in social science away from social structure to social process and interaction, the functioning relationships of race groups, there is everywhere among intelligent 7 people a tendency to bring about favorable changes in the course of the experience of living together. The problems in the field of recreation and the other fields before us today are practical, not academic. They can be solved if we clear away the biased conceptions that becloud our own thinking, and if this clear vision in turn results in conscientious Christian action after today is over. The most serious aspects of the interracial situation here, as elsewhere, are psychological, not biological or economic. The latter two may be most fundamental, but the beliefs, attitudes, and sentiments of all of us are most determinate of what may happen. This conference and others like it, our committees in the churches and those of the Council of Social Agencies, must open ways for helpful service, not artificial ways, but normal ways, in everyday processes. Just as man has gained a large measure of control over physical forces, it is hoped he can gain an equal measure of control over social forces. It is possible for men to change their own attitudes towards themselves as well as toward others; it is possible to change human nature, and thus the mores of the group. We must meanwhile, find a basis of racial adjustment which yields the greatest measure of mutual tolerance. It is a notorious fact that here, in the greatest Capital city in the world, the Negro population is denied or shamefully restrained in opportunity to enjoy the best cultural offerings in art, the drama or in music. The National Theater and others bar with rigidity the attendance of any colored citizen, even though some of the best talent in the colored race comes to Washington at this theater. At concerts about the city where are found the best expression of art in vocal and instrumental music, and at forums and lectures, the very few cultured Negroes who attend are herded into a far off dark corner or section. This is the most embittered experience and most sensitized suffering an artist or cultured person can bear. These practices are serious handicaps to the growth of better racial relationships. Racial opinion divides on the question of acceptance of the principles of segregation in recreation. In cities south of Washington, it is possible to witness dramatic performances and screen productions from the gallery, balcony or orchestra with segregation. Some would advocate obtainment of the cultural lessons possible at the expense of the humiliation and degradation of spirit. Others consider the loss of individual and racial self-respect too great a price to pay. All agree that freedom from restrictions would save the cost in money, would improve group culture, and make happier race relations. By far the most important of all problems lies in the province of outdoor and indoor recreation for the masses of youth and adults. Greater social welfare at less cost may eventuate, if we realize the inadequacies of our provisions for recreation for colored youth. 8 At one time when our cities abounded in great open spaces, when they were free and easily reached, and when fishing ponds and swimming holes where all around, naturally there was no segregation. Colored and white children played together. There was little discussion. But with the coming of organized play and playgrounds, we began separation. Commercial amusement houses, theaters, and lately even the great Federal Agencies encourage segregation, and in some instances, bar absolutely individuals belonging to nearly one-fourth of the population in Washington. However, there are notable exceptions to this practice. It has been justly remarked that at Griffith Stadium at League baseball games we find democracy in sport working at its best. However, the promoters of wrestling matches segregate unnecessarily. There are some universities which do not make color a bar to the purchase of a ticket of admission. Recently, local A. A. U. officials are seeking some way of harnessing the latent youthful energies in the colored race to confound delinquency and crime problems. Our colored citizenry has been greatly disturbed about, and resistant to, the encroachment of the policy of segregation in Federal Park Recreation. It has consistently opposed the allotment by permit of areas labeled, "For Colored," either actually or by implication. This practice is especially obnoxious to educated, sensible and sensitive citizens, and cuts down the participation of many colored people, who would rather mill around in their densely populated living areas than get out into the open spaces of nature where the humiliation of segregation lies. It is a known principle, that for the same amount of service segregation costs more financially and in addition intensifies racial antagonisms. It usually results in an inferior brand of education or recreation. In Washington, segregation in education works less inequitably than in most places in our country, but even in our schools we find inequalities to be a fact. Every white high school now has an athletic field and a spacious gymnasium. There are three colored high schools. Two of them, Dunbar and Armstrong have a field adjoining them not ample enough for one on the basis of the standards set in other high schools. Cardozo has only one gymnasium, the best we have, though not standard. Dunbar has two gymnasiums, neither of which suits the modern program. Armstrong has the poorest condition of any, with one inadequate gymnasium, four showers for 1,000 boys and none for girls. We in Washington have done as well as we have in our schools because we have had good men in the administrative positions. They have gone far in insisting upon equality in treatment in budgetary allowances. If we are to bring about the best civic and Christian relationships, we must work against the extension of the principle of segregation in the field of recreation. 9 In closing, I hereby cite a few points of attack upon the problem, that are practical and to which we might devote our whole-souled effort after the deliberations of today are over. 1. For the sake of better race relations, and for the great cultural good that might come to Washington, every Christian citizen should work to extend the opportunities for colored people to attend concerts, dramatic exhibitions, lectures and public forums unhampered by those devices of segregation that tend to disintegrate and to destroy personality. 2. In outdoor recreation, give a trial to permit systems, operating in democratic fashion, where those who come first, or who will pay a fee, may be allowed to enjoy the recreational facilities of our public parks. Avoid specifying areas for the use of individuals or groups. 3. Increase interracial enterprise and contacts between socially minded or religious groups when considering problems common to both races. 4. Use our recreation programs for the purpose of developing tolerance or better race relations here at home instead of going so far afield to do missionary work. This Conference can promote great good here in Washington. By increasing the right kind of recreation we can make people happier and we can reduce crime and delinquency. III REPORT OF ROUND TABLE ON EMPLOYMENT AND RELIEF Mr. Elwood Street, Director of Public Welfare, District of Columbia and Major Campbell C. Johnson, Executive Secretary, 12th Street Branch, Y. M. C. A., Co-Chairmen. Discussion leaders, Mrs .Harvey W. Wiley, President of the D. C. Federation of Women's Clubs and Mrs. W. A. Roberts, Secretary of the Council of Social Agencies. Rev. W. O. Carrington gave the summary. Mr. Street spoke without notes. PAPER BY MAJOR JOHNSON (SOMEWHAT ABRIDGED) UNEMPLOYMENT AND RELIEF IN WASHINGTON Economists have used many devices to prove the contention that the depression has passed its peak and is now diminishing in intensity. In our own city, the pay rolls of the government have upon them more than 105,000 persons, a larger number even than during the boom days of the World war. As Washington is considered a government city this condition of employment should indicate that the depression is over for us. It would be over for Detroit were the automobile factories of that city operating above the peak of boom days. But Washington has a relief roll today of 23,000 cases. Why? The answer lies in the fact that the re-employment machinery 10 of this city has passed over the Negro population. Let us view the situation. Of the total number of cases on public relief, 16,390 or 73.5 per cent, are Negroes. About one-third are single detached individuals. The other two-thirds are families averaging four persons to the family. In other words, more than 50,000 of the 133,000 colored people in this city are on public relief. A small number are being cared for by the private relief agencies, making the grand total an even more impressive figure. When we take into consideration the fact that Negroes are just slightly more than one-fourth of the population of this city, it is astounding to learn that they are providing three-fourths of all those drawing relief. Some insight into the situation may be obtained from the fact that although during the past two years more than 35,000 persons have been employed by the government within the city of Washington, not 200, according to the best available estimates, have been Negroes. The government has taken no interest in the economic recovery of the Negro. Since the government is the principal industry in this city and the majority of our local population get their living directly or indirectly from it, the Negroes in this city are in a predicament similar to that in which the Negroes of Detroit, for instance, would find themselves should the automobile industry of that city adopt a policy of employing them only with severe restrictions. Industry generally throughout the city follows the discriminatory policy set by the Federal and District governments. Among the larger private employers of labor who also follow this policy may be mentioned the public utilities, department stores and the building industry. It is the almost invariable rule, exceptions being too few to be given any consideration, that Negroes can be employed only in the most menial occupations or at the lowest wage level. In the rare instances where Negroes, because of outstanding qualifications, are permitted to do skilled or supervisory work, they are usually not given either the job designation to which they are entitled or the pay which would go with the job if a white man or woman were holding it. It is because of this attitude of employers toward Negro labor that the various codes have reacted so unfavorably for the Negro. In restaurants, hotels, custodial service and factories where the operation of a code has brought about an increase in pay scales, the attitude of employers has been expressed, locally and nationally, in this form: "Well, if I must pay a wage this high, I might as well employ white help." Investigation has failed to disclose the fact that this means better help. It seems to mean merely that the higher wage is just too much to pay Negroes. Many naive reasons for not employing Negroes are given by persons sincerely interested in helping to give the Negro a square deal in employment. One of the most interesting is the anticipated 11 objection of other employees. The person who gives this reason says, "I would employ Negroes but my other employees would object. Personally, I think they should be given more employment opportunities." Whenever I hear this reason given I think of an actual incident, the outcome of which makes me wonder how much merit is in the reason. Several years ago, immediately after the war, a friend of mine entered the government service through one of those temporary appointments that were so common at that time. Later he took a qualifying examination and was appointed permanently in an office of the Navy Department. Considerable talk arose in the office and some time later a white woman from a Southern state, who was employed in the office, complained to the Admiral in charge of the bureau that being a Southern white woman she could not work in the same office with a Negro in like grade. (It is interesting to note that a Negro messenger with a desk in the office would have made no difference to this woman.) The Admiral listened to her complaint, called the colored man in and told him to go home for the afternoon. After the man had gone, the Admiral came out into the large room occupied by most of the bureau, called the employees around him, got up on a desk and delivered an address, the substance of which was: "I understand that there is one among us who is not of the same blood as we are. It is very easy to appreciate the feelings of those who have come from a certain section of our country. I don't want to outrage those feelings or to compel anyone to work under conditions that are objectionable. Tomorrow morning I shall be in my office at 8 o'clock to receive the resignations of all those who do not wish to work with this man." The Admiral was in his office at eight o'clock the next morning, but not a single employee turned in his or her resignation. This man continued to work in that office for nine years longer, rising from grade to grade until only the chief clerk was classed above him. No further word of complaint was ever heard. When my friend was taken ill about eighteen months ago that office kept his hospital room banked with flowers. When he died after a brief illness, the white men and women who had worked along side him through those years, comforted his widow. At the funeral two rows of seats directly behind the family were occupied by his office associates, white men and women, led by the chief clerk himself. And there wasn't an eye undimmed by tears, not even the eyes of the men. I saw these tears roll down their cheeks. This Admiral was not a professional advocate of Negro rights. I do not know of any other thing he did that concerned Negroes in any way. He was just a man who accepted a situation, saw the human justice in it and had the nerve to act as his conscience dictated 12 dictated. He did not take the weaker way and allow himself to be swayed by what might happen. He dared the eventuality. I am inclined to think that many of the fears our friends have of what might happen if they dared to do justly by us can be classed with the fears that frighten children in the dark. The bold child, who has the nerve to investigate, finds that the figure dancing in the dark corner is only the shadow of a leaf waving in the beautiful moonlight outside the window. The Negro needs more friends who will not limit themselves to lip justice but who have the courage to do the thing that ought to be done in a grave situation. It will not be nearly so difficult as many believe. There are a larger number of white Americans willing to give the Negro justice than some of ardent and vocal friends have any idea. The statement has been made that a large number of Negroes who are unemployed and on relief are domestics and laborers. This is true but it is nevertheless a problem for this community to get them off relief. There are too many things that can happen to people on relief for which the community has to pay, for Washington to ignore the problem. Washington cannot stand the impact of 50,000 paupers upon its community life. These thousands of people with morale and self-respect gone, living at a mere existence level in communities that are disease and crime-ridden, can raise a tremendous number of social problems in their most aggravated forms. The story is told of a visit of the great philanthropist and social philosopher Jacob Riis to this city many years ago. He became very much interested in our alley situation and made an inspection of the alleys. Later in appearing before a Senate committee where the subject of doing away with our alleys was under consideration, he said that upon entering one of those hovels he had found a poor man dying of tuberculosis. On looking around the room he had seen towels from the Senate barber shop drying. Needless to say, the senators became interested in that alley. It was cleared up and Willow Tree Playground built. Not long ago I was talking to a prominent white official who has experienced the great misfortune of having the germs of tuberculosis take root in his family. He cannot discover the source of infection but now he is interested in tuberculosis. He admittedly had given very little thought to the subject before. Truly the life of this community is so interrelated that Massachusetts Avenue must be interested in Logan Court. Although the majority of Negroes on relief are domestics and laborers they are an integral part of the life of this community. This community cannot be healthy unless they are healthy. Neither can it be prosperous unless they are able and willing to earn a living. It is within the realm of possibility that at some time in the future —probably in the not so distant future—the federal government will greatly curtail, if not entirely withdraw, its large appropriations to this community for relief purposes. When this does happen, 13 it will be easy to appreciate the full importance of what I mean when I say that this community cannot be prosperous unless the 50,000 Negroes now on relief are able to live by their own labor. Washington will have great difficulty absorbing any considerable part of an $8,000,000 relief budget. While it is true that a large part of Negroes on relief are domestics and laborers there is also a considerable number of white collar workers among the unemployed. The United States Employment Center reports 4,000 active white collar cases on their records. In this group are professional people, teachers, bookkeepers, salesmen, stenographers, clerks, architects, engineers, and the like. Any reemployment program must take these people into consideration. As an immediate matter, arrangements should be made at once to have the Negro white collar group included in the emergency works program which will be developed in this community under the President's Works Bill now pending before Congress. I am making this statement deliberately because all previous made work programs in this city under the C. W. A. and E. W. A. have been flagrantly discriminatory. Washington has been more reactionary in this regard than cities in the deep South, such as Atlanta, Ga. Very casual observation of the stores and business offices of this city and of the crowds leaving our great government buildings as they dismiss in the afternoon will show you the difficult situation of the trained Negro in Washington. A community which provides him the finest educational opportunities offered anywhere in the country turns thumbs down on his employment at the level to which he has been trained—and, indeed, at any other level. I should, in all fairness, make this exception that this community does offer to the Negro a fair and impartial opportunity for employment in its educational system, to educate and train more Negroes to be denied employment. It does not make the picture any brighter to realize that there is diminishing demand for domestic service. The increasing number of labor saving devices of various kinds makes it more possible for the housewife to do her own work. Then, there is the growing tendency of small families to eat out. Dining places for all economic groups are rapidly multiplying in number. They make a very special appeal to the government employee and the apartment dweller. Where there is need for domestic service with this class of people, it is only on a part-time basis. There is likelihood of an increase not only of our unemployed but also our underemployed domestic group. Along with the decrease in opportunities for domestic employment there is a shrinkage in the need for a certain type of custodial service. The furnace man who took care of a number of heating plants in the same neighborhood, exacting a very small stipend from 14 each household, is finding serious competition in the oil burner and gas heater. He must give way before them as man has always given way before labor-saving devices. The community, however, has a responsibility to leave open or to open up other avenues of employment. His journey should not be inevitably to the relief rolls. Some adjustments will be necessary. Not only should these adjustments be made possible, but this worker should be aided in making them. The question as to whether or not the depression has begun to lift as far as Negroes in Washington are concerned can be answered in part by these figures: In May, 1934, there were 16,394 Negro families on relief; on December 31, 1934, there were 16,390. A difference of four families in seven months of recovery! There has been undoubtedly a larger turnover of cases than represented by the difference between these figures, but considering the Negroes in this community as a group there are just as many below the level of self-support today as there were in the spring of 1934. Nobody knows what the possibilities are towards meeting this condition because nobody has made any efforts in that direction. The concern of this community has been to see that these persons needing relief were adequately provided for. That is, that these persons received sufficient allowance in money and food to prevent the spectacle of persons starving to death. No serious thought has been given to this matter of employment. Last year one of our Commissioners set up a committee with the declared objective of securing 25,000 jobs. This committee seemingly died after a very brief span of life covering the period of just one meeting, so far as anyone knows. Maybe the committee found that it was a case of finding jobs for 20,000 Negroes and that would not be a very popular task to undertake. The federal government offices might have resented any approach along this line. Our district government itself probably was not ready to upset tradition by placing Negroes in clerical and stenographic positions or even in emergency work in the Public Library, the Traffic Bureau or elsewhere except in the Recorder of Deeds office and under the Board of Education. With our city government unable to break with tradition, it was entirely too hypocritical to ask private industry to do so. A much publicized employment campaign therefore never materialized. Heretofore the question of employment for Negroes has been kept in the academic realm with such matters as jim-crow car segregation, theater attendance, discrimination in voting and the like. But now this community has this question before it in such manner that it cannot be sidetracked, ignored, or whispered down. Negroes must come off relief. This is a very wise community. For the past fifty years, or ever since it became of age and seriously 15 started about the job of becoming a great city befitting the great country of which it is the capital, Washington has been able to solve its problems. (We are omitting, of course, the question of franchise.) All that is necessary is for our community leaders to turn their thoughts to this question. One important fact that should not be overlooked when this solution is being sought is that it will be doubly difficult to effect any worthwhile results without the cooperation of those members of the Negro race in this city who are not on relief rolls. There are 85,000 of them. Not much attention has been paid to Negro cooperation in this problem up to the present time. We seem still to be working on the old assumption that Negroes are a helpless and incompetent group who must have everything done for them. Negro doctors, lawyers, teachers, preachers, real estate men, architects, business men and women, social workers and mechanics stand ready to do their part. I emphasize the hope that whatever plans this Conference may recommend to meet this situation will take into account the resources and the willingness to serve of Negroes who are still so fortunate as to be self-sustaining members of this community. IV REPORT OF ROUND TABLE ON DELINQUENCY AND CRIME Mr. Earle Moses, Instructor in Educational Sociology, Miner Teachers College and Captain Rhoda Milliken, Director of Woman's Bureau, Metropolitan Police Department, D. C., Co-Chairmen. Discussion Leaders, Miss E. Rosalia Clarke, Research Assistant, Character Education Experiment and Dr. Edgar Gerlach, Supervisor of Social Welfare for the Bureau of Prisons, Department of Justice. Rev. A. F. Elmes gave the summary. PAPER BY MR. MOSES "Data previously presented to this conference show that Negroes contribute a disproportionate share of delinquency and crime in proportion to their relative percentage of the total population in Washington. Accepting these data as correct, our approach will deal with the implications of the figures. Moreover, an attempt will be made to present an explanation of conditions in other than the traditional viewpoints dealing with the prevalence of delinquency and crime among Negroes. Traditional views explain delinquency and crime among Negroes as due to heredity or environment; a combination of these factors offers a satisfactory explanation to some; while still others explain 16 delinquency and crime among Negroes as due to racial degeneracy and, consequently, a natural expectancy from this group. Our emphasis will treat of delinquency and crime in terms of differences in the character of communities. Fundamental differences may be noted between poor and high class neighborhoods, and factors inherent in community situations as offering an explanation for the prevalence of delinquency and crime among Negroes. Based on a study of juvenile delinquency among Negroes in Chicago, it was found that the prevalence of delinquency among Negroes could not be attributed to tendencies inherent in the race, nor to the transplantation of migrant Negro boys who are inclined toward delinquent behavior. Rather, the problem of juvenile delinquency is more intimately bound up with community patterns of behavior and the deteriorated areas that Negroes occupy. Community situations and factors within the community that are conducive to delinquency offer the explanation of delinquency among Negroes. Moreover, Negro areas of settlement are not homogenous communities. Rates of delinquency differ markedly between different types of Negro areas. Three major types of areas may be differentiated in the urban community. These types of areas are: areas of disorganization, areas in transition and organized Negro communities. Areas of disorganization are characterized by a more or less nondescript and unstable population, encroaching business, physical deterioration, high degree mobility, and pathological conditions generally. In such areas life is free. Organized Negro communities, on the other hand, are characterized by more or less common traditions, relatively stable population and high degree organization. In these communities concerted action is possible on matters of vital interest to the members of the community. Areas in transition have characteristics that are marginal to the two types of areas just discussed. The area in transition is an area in flux, where changes are rapid. Life tends to become free; disorder and confusion compete with order and organization. More enterprising members of the area seek to escape encroaching vice, disorder, and physical deterioration by moving into an organized community. Such types of areas, except for certain variations due to the history and the configuration of the city, may be differentiated among Negroes in Washington. Delinquency among Negroes is due largely to habitation in the most deteriorated areas and those areas in process of deterioration. The Negro in Washington, as in other large urban communities, follows a succession pattern of habitation of areas. Negroes occupy the deteriorated and deteriorating houses and communities formerly occupied by whites. This succession pattern in Washington is well stated in Rent and Housing Conditions in the District of Columbia, the recent report of an investigation submitted to the 17 Senate. Moreover, in Washington the situation is worse than in many other urban communities because of the presence of "alley dwellings." It is in these deteriorated areas that patterns of delinquent behavior prevail, and the mores and traditions of the community tend to perpetuate these delinquent patterns. Delinquency and crime in such communities do not encounter marked social disapproval; indeed, there may even be passive social approval. After settlement and habitation in such areas for a period of time, delinquency and crime seem inevitably to take their toll in additional delinquent careers. PAPER BY CAPTAIN RHODA MILLIKEN We have undertaken to discuss this afternoon the question whether certain statistics on crime in Washington are of any importance in a general discussion of race relations. It would seem desirable for this reason to know first of all what these statistics are, what the extent of what might be termed "official" crime has been and is, what relationships may exist between figures showing population. For certain purposes to be discussed later we have decided to make some comparisons between the situation in 1920 and that of 1930. We find in 1920 that the population of the District of Columbia was 455,428, 75 per cent of which was white. At that time our statistics for crime show that approximately 10 per cent of the total population was involved in some sort of anti-social activity and that the white population was responsible for 61 per cent of the difficulty, the Negro 39 per cent. In considering the crime rate within the two race groups we find that 8 per cent of the white were delinquent and 17 per cent of the Negro. At this point your attention is called to the makeup of both these groups as far as age is concerned. In the white group 19 per cent is in the juvenile bracket—in the Negro group 21 per cent is in that bracket. In sum then we find that in 1920 while the Negro made up but 25 per cent of the total population he contributed 39 per cent of the crime, that 8 per cent of the white population was in difficulty of one sort or another, and 17 percent of the Negro group. Turning to 1930, which follows as did 1920 a period of intense, keyed up artificial living, we find an increase of but 6 per cent in population with an increase of 25 per cent in the crime rate for the whole population. We find further that the Negro population, now consisting of 27 per cent of the total, an increase of 2 per cent, is responsible for 41 per cent of the crime. In other words the 2 per cent increase in population ratio is accompanied by a 2 per cent increase in crime ratio. Again your attention is directed to the age grouping. The white population shows an increase in the adult group of 11,048, in the juvenile group of 2,070, while in the Negro 18 population the adult increased 12,310 and the juvenile 5,813. In other words the major increase in both groups is in the adult population and this increase is greater in the colored than in the white. I would like to impress on your mind this difference between the age grouping of the Negro population in 1920 and in 1930 as it has certain implications which the speakers who follow me wish to bring out. There are three sections of our city to which I particularly want to direct your attention now. The first is the section generally known as the old second precinct and is included in census tracts No. 10 and No. 11 of the 1930 census. In 1920 this area which is approximately 1.4 square miles had a population of 44,441—33 per cent of which was colored. This section gives a picture of an area which is approximately one sixty-ninth of the total area of the city, with a population representing about 10 per cent of the total, requiring 6 per cent of all police business for the city. Directing your attention next to that area of the city which is generally known as old No. 10 and No. 8 precincts, we find we have in 1920 a population of 154,000, of which 24 per cent was colored, living on 5.6 square miles, or approximately 27,500 to the square mile. This area, which represents a little more than one twelfth of the city's area, called for 18 per cent of the police activity. The colored population of 37,511 in this area accounted for 8 per cent of the crime of the city. Contrast this with the first area discussed and we find that in that area where we had 44,000 people to the square mile a colored population only one-third as large as in the second area contributed one-half as much to the city's crime. There is just one more area I want to discuss and that is the area east of the Anacostia River. It has in it 17.5 square miles. In 1920 the population was 16,993, about 970 to the square mile, with 28 per cent colored. This Negro population, one-third of that of the first area discussed, contributed only one-fourth as much crime. In 1930 the population of this last area increased to 29,392 with 40 per cent colored. This colored population, however, contributed but 1 per cent of the city's crime. The density of the population had increased to 1,679 per square mile. The first area discussed had in 1930 an increase to 45,407 or 966 persons but contributed approximately 14 per cent of the total figure for crime. In other words an increase of 2 per cent in population contributed an increase of 8 per cent per crime. This increase in population was entirely colored. It is to be remembered we already had approximately 44,000 persons to the square mile. The 966 individuals added were almost all crowded into the eastern end of this area. This section is one in which there are about 32 inhabited alleys, where there is practically no new housing, where, according to a recent survey, rent is entirely out of proportion to 19 accommodations, a section which on a map showing relief or health statistics has so many little dots that it is difficult to distinguish them. Now all of this on the face of it presents an exceedingly hopeless picture. There is no question but that it truly portrays a grave situation, one that we must meet without flinching, but there are back of this picture certain implications which, when followed through as my fellow speakers will do now, bring to light facts which are far more important than these figures on crime. It is because of those facts I have the courage to discuss this situation with you today and know of a certainty that if we stand shoulder to shoulder we can bring about a more normal and a far happier condition of living for our whole community. EXTRACTS FROM THE SUMMARY BY REV. MR. ELMES After quoting the statistics given by Captain Milliken and others, Mr. Elmes analyzed the situation as follows: Are colored people more prone to anti-social behavior? Is the community bad because colored people live in it? Or are colored people bad because of where they live in bad communities? When comparisons are drawn is there a tendency to compare the best white people with the worst colored people? Are there high cultural levels to be found among non-white groups as well as among white groups? The following conclusions were drawn from the discussion: 1. We should be careful about uncritical acceptance of statistics on delinquency and crime without refining them and ascertaining their true implications. Zones rather than large areas would be more valid for a study. 2. Negroes are not homogeneous as a race, nor is there homogeneity in the areas in which they live. 3. Physical deterioration of the houses in which they are often forced to live reflects in the tone of life in such communities, tending to make delinquency seem normal. 4. Similar types of areas produce similar crime ratios for both white and non-white groups. 5. As both groups move out to the better areas their crime ratios tend to show a decrease. 6. There is a marked correlation between congestion in areas and crime in such areas. 7. The great differences in the character of the Negroes' residential areas as compared with those for the whites, plus other frustrations and the lack of social facilities, are factors in the crime rate for colored people. The Negro tenant is forced to take those houses which are oldest and located in the city areas least organized and where the population is most in transition. 8. Offenses of a sexual nature show no racial trend, being of about the same proportion for both races. 20 9. Misdemeanors, disorderly conduct, especially neighborhood brawls, show a greater incidence among the colored element in the population. 10. Organized crime, racketeering for example, occurs more often among the whites. Bootleggers as distributors bulk larger among the colored. Probably whites are the greater consumers. 11. Biology is a negligible factor in the racial studies of crime. 12. Behavior must be studied not in the light of the biology of race, but from the total situation of the individual or group. Such social elements would include economic pressure, available social facilities, natural expectancy as a social pattern. White people expect anti-social behavior from most Negroes. V SUMMARY OF SOME OF THE HIGH POINTS OF THE CONFERENCE BY CANON ANSON PHELPS STOKES, WASHINGTON CATHEDRAL In Washington there are about 486,000 people, of whom 132,000 or over one-fourth, are colored. It is to consider the facts regarding these colored people and their relationship to white people, and what the churches can do to improve these relationships, that this Conference has been called. Some of the outstanding facts brought out are as follows: 1. As to housing and alleys: Here our objective must be decent housing for all citizens, including the poorest wage earners. The methods must include demolition of unfit habitations, rehabilitation of others, and construction of new houses. The last must be both from private and public funds. The "alleys," which are found in some 200 blocks and house 10,000 people, of whom 95 per cent are colored, deserve special consideration. We should have entire confidence in the newly established Housing Authority, with its constructive ten-year program, and we should not be impatient if they are unable in their first year, with this extremely complicated problem, to show large concrete results. If they can carry out their plan of dealing with 15 alleys in the first year, we should be highly gratified. In connection with the housing situation it is highly important that wages should be sufficient to secure decent habitations, and that we should have laws which permit the easy condemnation on fair terms of unsanitary houses that are unfit for human habitation. 2. As to health and recreation. In this section health was considered especially in its effect on moral and social conditions. Great emphasis was put on the importance of recreation for leisure time and in preventing crime and delinquency. It was shown that recreation facilities for Negroes were inadequate; for instance, only 7 of the 89 public tennis courts are available for them. Much more important is the difficulty of their attending under self-respecting conditions the best theaters and concerts. Great emphasis was 21 laid on the fact that health knows no color line, that the avenue and the alley are intimately connected through many a furnace man and laundress. 3. As to employment and relief. It is clear that although they constitute only about one-fourth of the population, Negroes provide three-quarters of the relief problem. This is due partly to there being always more Negroes on the border line of self-support in Washington than whites, but mainly due to the fact that although relief is fairly administered by the government, it is hard for the Negro to get his share of jobs, especially white-collar jobs, locally. Recent statistics show 16,395 "cases" of Negroes on relief. As this includes both individuals and families, it represents a Negro relief group of about 50,000 people. Among the recommendations made about relief was that part-time domestic service would relieve some; that employers should be educated as to the value of Negro workers; that more should be done in the matter of self-help; that there should be some rehabilitation of Negroes on land in the neighborhood through subsistence homesteads; and that the Works program should be pushed with due consideration of Negro labor. 4. As to delinquency and crime. Attention was called to the fact that the average age of criminals in the United States is only 23 and that there has been a considerable increase in crime locally in recent years. Statistics show that the larger percentage of Negroes arrested is due not to biological causes but mainly to conditions of environment and education. There is a clear relation between housing conditions in any given area and crime, as is shown by the fact that in good neighborhoods the Negro crime rate and the white crime rate is similar. It is especially interesting to note that there is no local racial trend in sex crimes. Negroes lead in cases of delinquency, whites in the cases of organized crime. Good housing and improved recreational facilities will largely improve the crime conditions. "HOW CAN WE CREATE MORE CHRISTIAN ATTITUDES AND PRACTICES IN RACE RELATIONS IN WASHINGTON?"— BY DOCTOR STOKES. There are seven major institutions which can affect race relations. These are the home, the school and the church, which have to do particularly with education; and government, business, the press and the theater, which are also potent. Of these, in my judgment, the church has particular significance, for these reasons: 1. About 55 per cent of the total population in the United States are members of some church, according to the last census. Here then is an organization which, if it can reach its membership, can profoundly affect race attitudes. In Washington alone the census shows 399 white and colored churches. 2. The church exist primarily to train people in ideals and in ways in which they can show their love of God and love of their 22 fellow-men. They all believe in human brotherhood, in the importance of loving our neighbor as ourselves. If they can make this ideal effective the race problem can be solved. 3. The churches have a profound influence on each of the six other agencies named, namely the home, the school, government, business, press, the theater. In fact, it is their task to try to have these all permeated by Christian ideals of brotherliness. 4. Their leadership, that of Jesus Christ, is unmatched, not only because of his teaching of brotherhood, but because of his supreme manifestation of unselfish service to his fellow men through his life and his death on the cross. If we follow him as our living leader we can solve all problems of human relationships. Most local churches, however, are relatively inactive in his field. In spite of the fact that the Federal Council of Churches, and the headquarters of most Protestant, Catholic and Jewish religious bodies have taken advanced ground in the field of race relations, there is an enormous amount of indifference in most parishes. A questionnaire on the subject of race attitudes sent to 150 local churches by the Washington Federation of Churches, resulted in only 16 responses, showing no great interest. They were asked whether the attitude of their congregations on this subject was whether the attitude of their congregation on this subject was friendly, hostile, or indifferent. Fortunately none stated that it was hostile, but twice as many reported indifference rather than an actively friendly attitude, while only one-fourth of those sufficiently interested to reply had any special form of activity to try to improve race relations. As to how the churches could help improve race relations, I suggested the following methods: 1. Through worship. The problem of developing the right attitudes towards all members of the human family should be mentioned in our prayers in church, and occasionally the worshipping together of different groups is worth while. 2. Through the spoken word. Preaching, addresses, conversation, in which the ideals of brotherhood and right attitudes toward the race problem should be brought out. Occasional exchange of pulpits would help. 3. Through study. This seems to me of vital importance. The enormous improvement in race relations in the South was largely traceable, in my judgment, to the study of the race problem by young men and young women at the universities and colleges. The movement led several years ago by Dr. Weatherford of Nashville and by the Committee on Race Relations of Atlanta has done a great deal to take the race problem out of the field of emotions and make it a matter of objective study. The church should study the race problem at home just as much as foreign missions. The Journal of Negro History started by Doctor Woodson has done much to create an interest in Negro history and white people should know of this just as much as colored people. 23 4. Through social service. There are all sorts of ways, through the support of Settlements, Boys' Clubs, Recreation Centers, etc., in which white people can render service to the less privileged members of the community, which include many colored people. This should be so not only through acts of kindness but through constructive public and private efforts to improve conditions of living, the administration of justice, etc. 5. Through personal friendship. Nothing will help more to improve race relations that to have a friendly personal contact between white people and colored people, talking over their problems sympathetically together. The recent luncheon of 25 white and 25 colored ministers in one of the parish houses of Washington, merely for the purpose of breaking bread together and sympathetically discussing problems in which all were concerned, was a step forward. There is nothing more important than to have our attitudes towards people of other races what they should be. There is probably no way in which we can so surely improve race relations as to have members of both groups—White and Negro—always show courtesy and consideration to each other. CONCLUSION The Committee regrets that it is no possible to publish a complete stenographic report of the animated and constructive discussions at the Round Tables, but no such report exists. Even if it were available, no printed statement could reproduce the spirit of good will and of earnest purpose to fact facts and to interpret fairly, which prevailed throughout. Furthermore, it is our conviction that the Conference, while not a legislative body, has definitely contributed to several efforts which being made to better race relations in Washington. We hope that this report will be read and pondered by the members of the churches of our city so that the purpose of the Conference may be realized as fully as possible. For 300 representative leaders in church and social organizations, about equally divided between the white and colored groups, to meet and consider sympathetically great social and religious problems of mutual concern, was, we believe, prophetic of a more determined effort on the part of the churches to mark Christian brotherhood among all men a reality. Additional copies of the report may be obtained at the office of the Washington Federation of Churches, McLachlen Building, 10th and G Streets, N. W., Washington, D.C. Ten cents a copy. PROGRAM MEMORIAL SERVICE TO MEMORIAL MONROE TROTTER April 7, 1935 Prelude Processional Call to Worship Invocation with Choral Response Hymm Offering Introduction of Presiding Officer Rev Carrington Solo Tribute Prof. L. M. Hershaw Address Senator David I Walsh, Mass Solo Mr. Horace Wilson Tribute J. Finley Wilson, Grand Ex. Ruler I. B. P. O. E. W. Tribute Thos. H. R. Clarke,Sec. Natl. E. R. L. Selection Choir Tribute Mrs. Mary Church Terrell Tribute Rev. H. T. Medford, Sec. Miss. A. M. E Zion Church Solo Tribute Att'y Ashbie Hawkins, Balto. Md. Tribute Rev. H. B. Taylor, 15th St Pres. Church Selection Choir Tribute Att'y Armond Scott Tribute Hon. Perry W. Howard Solo RACE RELATING COMMITTEE of the WASHINGTON FEDERATION OF CHURCHES 1935-36 CHAIRMAN: Rev. H. O. Clark 3708 Livingston Street CL. 7242 Baptist EDGINGTON, Mrs. Frank B. 1916 2nd Street, N.E. NO. 3499-J Presbyterian JONES, Miss Margaret 1811 Eye Street ME. 7032 Friends KENNARD, Dr. Ralph B. 1364 Cirard Street NO. 3280 LUM, Mrs. David 1435 Shepherd Street Ad. 6142 Methodist PRATT, Rev. D.B. 1245 Crittendent Street GE. 6545 Cong. STOKES, Canon Anson Phelps 2408 Massachusetts Avenue NO. 4116 Episcopal SAVIN, Williams H. 1022 11th Street DI. 6883 Family Services STREET, Elwood District Building NA. 6000 Board of Public Welfare COLORED MEMBERS BROOKS, Rev. R. W. 1701 11th Street PO. 2294 HAYES, George E. C. 1732 S Street NO.1398 JERNAGIN, Rev. W. H. 1341 3rd Street NO. 5194 JOHNSON, Major Campbell 1816 12th Street NO.1054 Y.W.C.A JUST, Mrs. E. E. 412 T Street PO. 0846 LOGAN, Joseph G. 139 S Street NO. 3896 McADOO, Mrs. Martha A. 901 Rhode Island Avenue NO. 0191 Y W C A TAYLOR, Rev. H. B. 1715 1st Street NO. 7783 TERRELL, Mrs. Mary Church 1615 S Street NO. 3691 Minutes of the Committee on Race Relations of the Federation of Churches, November 17th. Present: Mr. Clark Dr. Taylor Dr. Darby Major Johnson Dr. Pratt Miss Jones. In the absence of the Secretary, Mrs. Terrell, Margaret Jones was asked to take the minutes. Mr. Clark called to the attention of the committee a recent statement by Carrie Chapman Catt's article of appreciation of Mary Church Terrell, which was recently published in the Oberlin College Alumnae Magazine. The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The committee to plan a conference on Race Relations this winter is not prepared to make a report. A letter was read from Judge Wheat expressing his gratification for the recent letter to make a report. It was moved by Dr. Taylor, seconded by Mrs. Just, that a [speaker] member of this committee be sent to meet with a group of representatives of several Race Relations committees to plan a series of joint meetings through the year. Mrs. Ernest Just was asked to attend this initial meeting. Dr. Darby reported that 25 conference summaries had been sent to the Sociology Department of George Washington University. SCOTTSBORO CASE. Our chairman explained that there is a Washington Committee for the defense of the Scottsboro boys. This committee is absolutely independent of any other Scottsboro Defense Committees, although it is cooperating with the national committee of which the Rev. Allan Knight Chalmers of Broadway Tabernacle Church, New York, is national chairman. The local committee, Mrs. Robert G. Maguire, chairman, is trying to raise $ 2000 to help with the expenses of a retrial which has already been granted. $1000 of this sum is raised. A mass meeting in Washington is planned for the second week of December, at which Dr. John Haynes Holmes will be the speaker. The cooperation of this committee is being asked so that wide publicity may be given throughout the churches concerning the Scottsboro case, the general need for funds, and the mass meeting in December. It was moved by Dr. Taylor, seconded by Dr. Pratt and voted that this committee record its conficence in the integrity of the leaders of the Washington Scottboro Defense Committee. page 2. It was pointed out that the approval of the Board of the Federation must be secured before such a letter of appeal could be sent to the churches. It was moved by Dr. Pratt, seconded by Dr.Taylor, That Mr. Clark and Mrs. Terrell prepare a letter to be sent to all ministers, the letter to call their attention to the Scottsboro Defense Com. and to urge that collections be taken for this fund on Sunday, December 13th. This letter is to go out over the name of this committee, and it is to be submitted first to Dr. Darby and Dr. Hawthorne for their approval. The Scottsboro pamphlet is to be enclosed. This motion was voted by the committee. It was moved by Major Johnson, seconded by Mrs. Just, and voted that we ask the endorsement of the board for the activities of the local Scottsboro Committee at its next meeting. It was moved by Major Johnson, seconded by Mrs. Just, and voted that our chairman write to Wilbur La Roe, Jr., Chairman of the Committee on Civic Affairs, urging that his committee make an investigation of the reported police brutality in this city, and to take the necessary steps leading to improvement of the action of the police. Respectfully submitted, Margaret E. Jones, Secretary pro tem. MY PLEDGE FOR THE WORK OF THE FEDERATION OF CHURCHES I hereby pledge $________________ toward the $13,600 budget of the Washington Federation of Churches for the fiscal year ending March 31, 1987. This pledge is payable _______________________________________________________ Name _________________________________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________________________ Church_________________________________ Secured by_____________ Date ________ Make checks payable to Washington Federation of Churches. Address : 503 McLachlen Building. [*Scottsboro Defense Comittee Ph. Wheatley Y.W.C.A. N. a a c. P Council of Sororities and Fraternities New Negro Alliance Inter-Racial Committee of Wash. & for Peace and Freedom*] The Washington Federation of Churches 503 McLachlen Building 10th and G Streets Northwest Washington, D. C. Rev. W. L. Darby, Executive Secretary Telephone District 5242 COOPERATIVE CHRISTIANITY IN THE NATION'S CAPITAL The Preaching Mission Nov. 22-25 President, Rev. C. E. Hawthorne Vice Presidents, L. W. DeGast Rev. F. B. Harris Rev. R. H. Miller Recording Secretary, Rev. G. B. Faucett Treasurer, Earl Carson Assistant Treasurer, Rev. J. A. Trader President of the Woman's Council Mrs. E. V. Pugh Office Secretary, Elizabeth Feindt Juvenile Court Worker, Etta Mai Russell Telephone District 5761 Hospital Worker, Mrs. Elizabeth W. Murray Telephone Adams 7743 COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN Civic Affairs, Wilbur LaRoe Employment, R. Spencer Palmer Evangelism, Rev. A. P. Shirkey Finance, Rev. Chesteen Smith Hospital Work, Rev. L. L. Bowers International Good Will, Rev. W. S Abernethy Publicity, Rev. G. L. Conner Public Meetings, Rev. H. W. Snyder Race Relations, Rev. E. O. Clark Religious Education, Rev. J. Raymond Mills Social Service, Rev. J. H. Hollister [*[Mar 26, 1937]*] RACE RELATIONS COMMITTEE Meetings of the committee have been held regularly through the year with the exception of the summer period. Last Spring with Dr. Arthur S. Devan, Chaplain of Hampton Institute as speaker, an afternoon and evening conference was held at the Phyllis Wheatley Y.W.C.A., with other inter-racial groups cooperating. The committee has worked with other groups in securing a lengthened summer term of the District criminal court, which has expedited justice especially for many colored prisoners. Counsel and cooperation with other inter-racial groups have been freely given. Assistance has been given to the Scottsboro Defense Committee and a contribution of $28.00 was remitted to it from several church through the committee. Interviews have been held and letters written regarding such matters as police brutality charges, civil equality in our theaters, and anti-lynching legislation. Letters urging the observance of Race-Relations Sunday were sent to all the churches in the Federation and the committee has been instrumental in furnishing speakers for these occasions. Several members of the committee participated in a union service of this character. The committee believes that there is a growing spirit of friendly interest between the races. We rejoice especially in the happy inter-racial relations that exist within the Federation itself. Respectfully submitted, Edward O. Clark Chairman March 23, 1937 cooperation which are exceeding worthy. Among these are the Friends, the Congregational, the Presbyterian, the Protestant Episcopal and other communions. This fraternalism should be extended. 5. An interchange of speakers or singers can be arranged between churches of the different races with beneficial results. It is highly desirable that churches, young people's societies, missionary societies and Sunday Schools observe the second Sunday in February as Inter-racial Sunday, and arrange to have guest speakers or musicians from a different race; or a mutual exchange can be planned. 6. Good Will tours for young people or adults to well-Known institutions or churches in the city can be conducted. White groups can arrange to visit such institutions as Howard University, Freedman's Hospital, the Twelfth Street Y.M.C.A or Phyllis Wheatley Y.W.C.A. We shall know each other better as we drive the mists of ignorance away. 7. Young people can study racial problems with definite emphasis upon the local situations. Knowledge of actual conditions is essential to proper understanding. They may study not only the problems, but the achievements of the other race in art, literature and music, and thus be led into an appreciative point of view. Call Upon Us These projects suggested will not completely solve the problem of race relations, but we believe that they are a beginning. If you need assistance in conducting a Good Will tour, in securing a speaker or singer or in planning your own program of good-will, call upon us. The Race Relations Committee stands ready to assist you in any possible way. We are striving to aid both races to work together in a more sympathetic and understanding way in order to make Washington increasingly a city of spiritual beauty, and thus to "crown her good with brotherhood." Will You help? THE COMMITTEE OF RACE RELATIONS OF THE WASHINGTON FEDERATION OF CHURCHES Rev. Edward O. Clark, Chairman Rev. Robert W. Brooks Mrs. Frank E. Edgington Mrs. T. B. Javis Miss Margaret Jones Mrs. E. E. Just Major Campbell C. Johnson Prof. Ralph B. Kennard George E. C. Hayes Rev. W. H. Jernagin Joseph G. Logan Mrs. Martha A. McAdoo Rev. D. Butler Pratt Rev. Anson Phelps Stokes Rev. H. B. Taylor Mrs. Mary Church Terrell Mr. Elwood Street Mr. Wm. H. Savin Rev. W. L. Darby, Executive Secretary November 20, 1935 [*See last page*] Our City Beautiful "O beautiful for patriot dream That sees beyond the years Thine alabaster cities gleam Undimmed by human tears! America! America! God shed his grace on thee, and crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea!" —Katherine Lee Bates The Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches Washington D. C. A City of Spiritual Glory Washington, our City Beautiful, is fast becoming in physical appearance the "alabaster city" of the poet's dream. The new Supreme Court building, gleaming white in the sunlight, is typical. It stands stately and imposing, architecturally fascinating, a great sentinel guarding the liberties and ideals of America. But no temple of stone, however majestic, can of itself keep the city "undimmed by human tears." Human sympathy, understanding and fellowship are needed if the inner beauty of life is to match the outward beauty of form. As Washington becomes the "City Beautiful" in its outward attractiveness, it is the happy privilege of the churches of Christ to "crown its good with brotherhood" and to make the Capital of our country radiant with a true spiritual glory. No part of this imperative task is more important than that which is the particular concern of the Committee on Race Relations of the Washington Federation of Churches. For no city can be truly beautiful that is sullen with racial prejudice and rife with common injustices to a worthy people. The Spirit of Christian Missions We believe in missions. Most of our Christian people contribute generously to make Christ known both at home and abroad, to impart the best that we enjoy to all backward and benighted peoples. Many have in years past given money and men to assist the Negro people who are fellow-citizens of the United States that they may rise from the poverty and ignorance in which slavery left them. Today the majority of the Negro folk in our city have responded to the opportunity afforded and now seek to take their places in our community life as self-respecting citizens and loyal Christians. But what is the attitude of the Church today, when brought face to face with the results of its own missionary activity? Is it not too much an attitude of aloofness? For the most part, we must acknowledge with deep regret that it is largely an attitude of unconcern and ignorance, an attitude diametrically opposed to the spirit of Christian missions. Bad Social Conditions How many Christian people really know the sordid social conditions which prevail in Washington? Or its problems of delinquency, of crime, of racial antipathies, of the need for relief? It is true that Negroes constitute a minor proportion of the population, but a major proportion of those on relief and an excessive proportion of delinquents. But who is to blame for this situation? Is not the fact that only comparatively few Negroes have been employed by the government in the past two years, whereas there have been thousands of white people employed during the same period, one of the important factors? It is true that approximately ninety-five per cent of the ten thousand alley dwellers in the city are Negroes. But do you imagine that Negroes prefer to live in such slums any more than others would? Unemployment, social segregation, lack of playgrounds and other opportunities for constructive living, have been shown to have a vital relationship to poverty, unsanitary housing, delinquency and crime. A Challenge to All The truth is that the solution of these urgent problems calls for earnest study by the people of both races. There are thousands of self-supporting well-educated Negroes here who are deeply concerned for the welfare of our city. Alone they cannot solve these problems; nor can the white people solve them for the Negroes. Our Christian people in the churches, both white and colored, must face such conditions together in earnest, constructive thought and in cooperative effort, if worthy solutions are to be found. What the Church Can Do What is your church doing to meet this pressing challenge? What can it do to remedy evil social conditions and spread the gospel of brotherhood in Washington? Below are listed various practical projects which some churches have found of value in striving to meet the issue. You may find these suggestions helpful in your own church. 1. Individual Christians can be encouraged to cultivate the acquaintance and friendship of leading Negro ministers and laymen. Many individuals are doing this with great enrichment to their own lives. 2. Inter-racial meetings to consider common social and religious problems together can be held with far-reaching results. The United Christian Youth Conference and the Conference on the Betterment of Race Relations in Washington during the past year are examples of what can be done in this direction. 3. Joint meetings for fellowship between the races can be promoted in numerous ways. Recently a luncheon was held at which twenty-five white ministers of the city each invited a colored minister as his guest. Later the Ministerial Union invited all of the colored pastors to a joint meeting which was held in the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church. The broader fellowship of both of these meetings was deeply inspiring. The possibilities for future fellowship of this sort are large with promise. 4. Several churches and denominations which include in their fellowship both white and colored people have been exploring possibilities in fraternal SUBJECT FILE Conference on the Participation of Negro Women and Children in Federal Welfare Programs, 1938 CONFERENCE ON THE PARTICIPATION OF NEGRO WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN FEDERAL WELFARE PROGRAMS APRIL 4, 1938, AUDITORIUM, NORTH INTERIOR BUILDING PURPOSE OF THE CONFERENCE To discuss the extent of the participation of Negro women and children in the various federal social welfare programs with a view towards promoting a larger participation and closer integration of Negroes into the entire federal program. BASIC QUESTIONS What is the extent of the participation of Negro women and children in such programs as: Direct Relief Assistance; Old Age Benefits; Aid to the Blind; Child Welfare Services; Aid to Crippled and Dependent Children; Maternal and Child Health Services, etc.; Unemployment Compensation, Housing, Vocational Rehabilitation, etc.? [*Labor- Red Cross Federal Nursing Service*] What are the fundamental reasons for the limited participation of Negro women and children in these various programs? What actions do we believe could be taken by the federal government to meet these difficulties and promote a larger participation of Negro women and children? SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS 9 A. M. Morning session, Auditorium, North Interior Building 12:30 P. M. Luncheon - Cafeteria, North Interior Building 2 P. M. At the White House. Mary McLeod Bethune, President National Council of Negro Women CONFERENCE ON THE PARTICIPATION OF NEGRO WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN FEDERAL WELFARE PROGRAMS PURPOSE OF THE CONFERENCE The great humanitarian leadership of the current national administration has placed as one of its foremost objectives the conservation of human resources. Such national legislation as the Social Security Act seeks to protect human beings from the vicissitudes of life. We are especially concerned today with the legislation for the welfare of women and children, and specifically, the problem of the participation of Negro women and children in the benefits of such social legislation. This group assembled here today represents the active leadership of a large group of women and children, - a considerable and significant sector of American citizenry. We have come primarily to express our eagerness to cooperate with the women of America to achieve together the bright goals of democracy and human welfare. To achieve this end, we would question the extent of the integration of Negroes into the various types of legislation for the social welfare of women and children. We feel definitely that we are severely limited in our participation in these programs and have come to offer our cooperation and our viewpoint in order that we might share the full responsibility and privilege of American citizenship with all other women and children. FINDING OF THE CONFERENCE Our deliberations have indicated that Negro women and children do not participate in federal welfare programs to any extent in proportion to their need. It is our advised opinion that this condition is the direct result of our virtual exclusion from the administrative or policy forming offices of the various federal departments and bureaus set up for the administration and execution of the programs for women and children. As good Americans, we should aspire to make our rightful contribution to the social advancement of our nation. We do not feel that this can be accomplished as long as so large a sector as we represent is so largely excluded from the full benefits of social welfare legislation. We therefore definitely recommend that steps be immediately taken to include representative leadership among Negroes in the various administrative posts strategic to the full participation of Negro women and children in the several government programs. Only in this way do we feel that the Negro viewpoint will be adequately presented and the special problems and difficulties of Negro women and children be satisfactorily approached and met. FINDINGS OF THE CONFERENCE ON THE PARTICIPATION OF NEGRO WOMEN IN FEDERAL WELFARE PROGRAMS. PURPOSE OF THE CONFERENCE The great humanitarian leadership of the current national administration has placed as one of its foremost objectives the conservation of human resources. Such national legislation as the Social Security Act seeks to protect human beings from the vicissitudes of life. We are especially concerned today with the legislation for the welfare of women and children and, specifically, the problem of the participation of Negro women and children in the benefits of such social legislation. This group assembled here today represents the active leadership of a large group of women and children - a considerable and significant sector of American citizenry. We have come primarily to express our eagerness to cooperate with the women of America to achieve together the bright goals of democracy and human welfare. To achieve this end, we would question the extent of the integration of Negroes into the various types of legislation for the social welfare of women and children. We feel definitely that we are severely limited in our participation in these programs and have come to offer our cooperation and our viewpoint in order that we might share the full responsibility and privilege of American citizenship with all other women and children. It is the definitely formed conclusion of this group that the work influencing the health, industrial conditions and general welfare of the women of the United States is administered by certain commissions and bureaus here enumerated. It is our firm conviction that the appointment of Negro women to each of these bureaus is of paramount importance, not only to twelve million Negro citizens of the United States, but to the country as a whole, in order that the meeting of the peculiar and specific problems of Negro women and children should be well integrated into the welfare program of the federal government. CHILDREN'S BUREAU Because the children of any race represent what the next generation will be, the National Council of Negro Women is particularly concerned about the welfare of Negro children, who proportionately form the largest group of child labor in America, and, therefore, urge that a capable Negro woman be -2- placed in an administrative position in the Children's Bureau in order that she may better safeguard the interests of the Negro children of America. BUREAU OF PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE In spite of the high mortality and morbidity rates among, Negroes, the Bureau of Public Health Service has but one Negro health officer in its employ. The National Council of Negro Women recommend that the Bureau of Public Health Service employ an administrative officer, physicians, medical service workers, public health nurses and nutritionists, in order that the health needs of the Negro people of America may be adequately provided for. WOMEN'S BUREAU That the supply of skilled and unskilled Negro labor in the United States is greater than the demand and the present market for such labor is an all too well-known fact. Women form a large bulk of the Negro labor supply. An increasing number of Negro women are becoming the chief breadwinners of their families. Indeed, a larger percentage of Negro married women are gainfully employed outside the home than in any other racial group in the United States. Many of the social, health and general community problems of the Negro are rooted in the economic insecurity of the Negro family. For this reason, the industrial and labor problem of the Negro women is one that demands immediate and definite consideration. Accordingly therefore the National Council of Negro Women recommend that the appointment of a Negro woman, familiar with labor problems and the economic and industrial situation of the Negro, to the Women's Bureau of the United States Department of Labor is of vital importance. BUREAU OF EDUCATION Human resources cannot be conserved without Education - education of all kinds, at all levels, for all people; appropriately and impartially selected and adequately presented, supervised and administered, by sympathetic well - prepared leadership. To produce most effective results in American civilization the National Council of Negro Women recommend that there should be a Negro woman staff-member in each department or bureau whose program is concerned with the educational well-being of woman and/or children. -3- AMERICAN RED CROSS Because the American Red Cross is a national agency, established to alleviate human suffering, and because its ex-officie head is the President of the United States, but because it has no national Negro administrative offices and only one Negro chapter, the National Council of Negro Women respectfully request the President of the United States as its ex-officie head to suggest to the American Red Cross the immediate appointment of a Negro administrator to integrate the American Negro into the activities of the American Red Cross. FEDERAL HOUSING AUTHORITY UNITED STATES HOUSING AUTHORITY The family unit is of paramount importance in a democracy, and the fostering of family life is peculiarly the province of women, therefore the conditions of the home are of primary consideration. The National Council of Negro Women feel that the protection of the interest of a group whose vast majority would be economically and spiritually affected by the benefits of any housing program, makes imperative the appointment of a Negro woman equipped to know and to interpret the needs of the group , in an administrative capacity in the Federal Housing Administration and the United States Housing Authority. SOCIAL SECURITY BOARD Finally, the National Council of Negro Women recommends that whereas the social and economic life of Negro women is so deeply controlled by the rules promulgated by the Social Security Board, that a trained Negro woman be placed in an administrative position on that Board. CONCLUSION Our deliberations have indicated that Negro women and children do not participate in federal welfare programs to any extent in proportion to their need. It is our advised opinion that this condition is the direct result of our virtual exclusion from the administrative or policy forming offices of the various federal departments and bureaus set up for the administration and execution of the programs for women and children. As good Americans, we should aspire to make our rightful contribution to the social advancement of our nation. We do not feel that this can be accomplished as long as so large a sector we -4- represent is so largely excluded from the full benefits of social welfare legislation. We therefore definitely recommend that the steps be immediately taken to include representative leadership among Negros in the various administrative posts strategic to the full participation of Negro women and children in the several government programs. Only in this way do we feel that the Negro viewpoint will be adequately presented and the special problems and difficulties of Negro women and children be satisfactorily approached and met. Transcribed and reviewed by contributors participating in the By The People project at crowd.loc.gov.