- Transcription
OFFICE OF PRESIDENT
NATIONAL TRAINING SCHOOL
JAMES E. SHEPARD, PRESIDENT
DURHAM, N. C.
August 4, 1919.
Governor T. W. Bickett,
Executive Mansion,
Raleigh, N.C.
Dear Sir:-
The most acute problem confronting the American people today is the Negro. Something must be done and done quickly to reassure both races, or I fear there will continue a period of distrust, depression gloom and perhaps bloodshed. I think a great deal of the trouble is due to a lack of understanding between the races.
I know that a program can safely be worked out which will re-assure the Negro in the South, grant to him better opportunities to live and to work, without the sacrifice of a single principle of justice and right.
A statement at the present time coming from a group of representative white and colored men setting forth sane yet fair principles of co-operation will help not only the South but America in general.
I therefore respectfully ask would you consider the appointment of three white and two colored representatives to meet in conference with a like group from the other Southern States to outline a program or platform upon which we can live and work.
These men should be selected for their standing and influence in both races, so that their words will carry weight. I would suggest that this conference meet Labor Dya either in Richmond, Raleigh, Columbia or Atlanta.
Do you approve of it? Do you think such a call should emante from some Governor? If so will you take the lead? Will you appoint such delegates as will attend?
I earnestly ask your co-operation in this matter which affects us all so vitally.
With sentiments of esteem and respect,
Yours very truly,
I desire to again thank you personally for all you are doing for my people in the state.
