Pleading Our Own Cause; The Black Press in Springfield Illinois (1886 2013)

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Urban Educational Institute, Inc. Copyright Š 2013 by Afi Camara All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced nor transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by an information storage and retrieval system without permission in writing from the publisher. For information, contact: VERVE Media Group 2519 South Grand Avenue East Springfield, Illinois 62708

Afi Camara is an author, publisher and serial entrepreneur

First Edition Š 2013 by VERVE Media Group No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical method including information storage and retrieval systems, without the written permission from publisher except for brief passages quoted in a review.

ISBN: 978-1-62209-719-7 Title: PLEADING OUR OWN CAUSE; The Black Press in Springfield, Il. (1886-2013) Format CD Date Published: January 1, 2013 Copyright Year: 2013 Price: $9.99 Genre: African American Studies

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“History is a clock that people use to tell their political and cultural time of day. It is also a compass that people use to find themselves on the map of human geography.

History tells a people where they have been and what they have been, where they are and what they are. Most important history tells a people where they still must go and what they still must be. The relationship of history to the people is the same as the relationship of a mother to her child.�

--Dr. John Henrik Clarke, A Great and Mighty Walk

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“To Our Patrons In presenting our first number to our Patrons, we feel all the diffidence of persons entering upon a new and untried line of business. But a moment's reflection upon the noble objects, which we have in view by the publication of this journal; the expediency of its appearance at this time, when so many schemes are in action concerning our people - encourage us to come boldly before an enlightened publick. For we believe, that a paper devoted to the dissemination of useful knowledge among our brethren, and to their moral and religious improvement, must meet with the cordial approbation of every friend to humanity… We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us. Too long has the publick been deceived by misrepresentations in things which concern us dearly, though in the estimation of some mere trifles; for though there are many in society who exercise towards us benevolent feelings; still (with sorrow we confess it) there are others who make it their business to enlarge upon the least trifle, which tends to the discredit of any person of colour; and pronounce anathemas and denounce our whole body for the misconduct of this guilty one.”

Freedom Journal, The nation’s first African American Newspaper, 1827

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Table of Contents Acknowledgements………………………………………………………………………

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Introduction ………………………………………………………………………………..

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List of Tables ……………………………………………………………………………….

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A History of the Black Press ………………………………………………………….

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Springfield’s Black Press (1886 – 2013)…………………………………………..

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State Capital (1886-1919)…………………………………………………….

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Messenger (1888-1889)………………………………………………………

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Advance Citizen (1892-192)…………………………………………………

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National Standard Enterprise (1894-1903)…………………………..

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Illinois Record (1897-1899)………………………………………………..

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Leader (1902-1918)……………………………………………………………

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Illinois Conservator-Globe (1902-1950)……………………………….

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Forum (1904-1927)……………………………………………………………

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Illinois Chronicle (1912-1969)…………………………………………….

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Negro Democrat (1934-1936) …………………………………………….

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Capitol City News (1942-1951) ……………………………………………

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Spirit of Black Springfield (1968-1968)………………………………..

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Springfield’s Voice (1973- Present) …………………………………….

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Voice of the Black Community (1973-2000)………………………..

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Pure News USA (1983-Present) …………………………………………

152

Capitol City Courier (2007-Present) ………………………………….

160

Illinois Voice/VOICE Magazine (2010-Present)………………….

171

Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………………….

191 5

Appendices Research Method ……………………………………………………………

192

Bibliography ………………………………………………………………….

199

About the Author …………………………………………………………..

203

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LIST OF TABLES

Table # 1:

Pre-Civil War Black Newspapers ………………………………….

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Table #2:

The Black press in Springfield, Illinois (1886 – 2013) …….

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This book is dedicated to my children Malcolm (“Malc�) Xavier Beal Reeves and Gabriel Reeves. Keep striving to pursue your dreams and to reach your fullest potential. Those are the keys to happiness and success.

It is also dedicated to my mother Joyce Flagg who started writing poetry at the age of sixty. She has used this immense talent to lift the spirits of fellow church members and others in the African American during their times of both bereavement and celebration by making Memorial Plagues using her own poetry to either sooth weary souls or to celebrate accomplishment. She is a testament to the true power of the Creator.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS There were several individuals who were very instrumental in assisting me with the research for this work. Even though it was their job, I would still like to thank Jan Perone, Newspaper Librarian, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library; Bob Cavanaugh, Asst. Newspaper Librarian, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library; Curtis Mann, Librarian, Sangamon Valley Collection, Thomas J. Wood, and University Archivist, University of Illinois at Springfield I am grateful for the assistance of Teresa Haley, Springfield Branch NAACP President for her tireless efforts to garner interviews and information from various individuals for this endeavor.

In doing a project like this that relies on historical data, it is difficult if the person being written about is no longer with us. I want to thank Mrs. Jacqueline Johnson who is Inman Foster Sr.’s daughter for her assistance and for trusting me with her personal information so that I could make copies for my research. I want to also acknowledge Mrs. Inman Foster Jr. for getting information to me on her husband that was very useful for this work. Lastly, Mr. Harold Hughes Osby for taking the time out of his busy schedule to bring information to me on his lunch hour on his late father Mr. Simeon Osby.

Mrs. Kathleen Blakely and Mrs. Doris Bailey of the Springfield and Central Illinois African American Museum were very helpful, courteous and professional in giving me oral histories of various members of the African American community.

I want to thank Mr. William Furry, Executive Director of the Illinois State Historical Society for inviting the exhibit to this book to be displayed at the 2013 Illinois History Symposium, “Slavery and Emancipation; Global Perspectives.”

I would also like to thank Patrick Mehling and Lastly, I am truly grateful and indebted for the assistance of the living editors of the Black Press in particular Mr. Michael Pittman, The Capital City Courier; Mr. T.C. Christian, PURE NEWS USA; Mr. Horace G. Livingston, The Voice of the Black Community; Mr. Charles Scott, The Spirit of Black Springfield, Mr. Irv Jackson, The Spirit of Black Springfield; Mr. John Crisp, The Spirit of Black Springfield, Mr. Inman Foster Jr, Land of Lincoln Progress Report and Mr. William H. Washington, Springfield’s Voice and Mr. W.E. “Pete” Reeves, Illinois VOICE/VOICE Magazine.

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INTRODUCTION Some could say that by writing this book and doing this exhibit I am attempting to secure my own legacy. It is true that I want to be responsible for not only writing my own history but contributing accurately to its writing as well as the history of the field in which I work and the history of my people. So, what I have done here is attempt to tell not only my story, but the story of the African American editors in Springfield, Illinois from 1886 through 2013 and the events of the community in which they lived. I believe that our history is our connection to our ancestors which is the light force of our souls.

So in telling the history of those that have come before me, I am also telling my own history. In telling that story and the people and events that these publications covered the reader gets a snapshot in time.

In discussing the black press in Springfield and its publishers and editors, the reader is taken on a historical journey into the sacrifices, injustices of African Americans as was well as their success and accomplishments. While learning of the editorial style of various newspapers and their editors, the reader is exposed to such events as pre-civil war abolitionist movement, the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Atlantic Compromise, the nadir, Springfield’s 1908 Race Riots and other riots of the early part of the twentieth century, Jim Crowism, the Harlem Renaissance, World War I, World War II, the Great Depression, the Civil Rights Movement, the assignations of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and Malcolm X and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the Newark and Detroit Race Riots of 1968, the Black Power Movement, the Kerner Commission, the Reagan Era, the September 11, 2001 World Trade Center attacks, and the Obama Era. This book discuss such prominent African Americans as John B. Russwurm and Rev. Samuel Cornish, editors of Freedom’s Journal, the first African American newspaper, Frederick Douglas, T. Thomas Fortune, Billie Holiday, Ida B. Wells, , John Abbott, James Brown, Stokely Carmichael , John Johnson and a host of others.

It should also be noted that the words Black, African American will be used interchangeably in this book. When appropriate in quoting other works or in giving the reader the adequate relation of the name to the era being discussed other words such as Negro or Colored will be used.

This book was designed to be used as a working tool by historians, students, educators and students. Most of all this book is a glimpse into the lives of prominent African Americans who dedicated their lives to telling our stores, sharing our anger and celebrating our uniqueness.

The soul has no color but of eyes, Possesses no malice, no disguise: The soul knows no creed but love and faith; It knows only man; it knows no race:— C.F.W., 1894

Afi Camara, Springfield, Illinois , February 2013 10

A HISTORY OF THE BLACK PRESS

TO OUR PATRONS In presenting our first number to our Patrons, we feel all the diffidence of persons entering upon a new and untried line of business. But a moment's reflection upon the noble objects, which we have in view by the publication of this journal; the expediency of its appearance at this time, when so many schemes are in action concerning our people - encourage us to come boldly before an enlightened publick. For we believe, that a paper devoted to the dissemination of useful knowledge among our brethren, and to their moral and religious improvement, must meet with the cordial approbation of every friend to humanity… We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us. Too long has the publick been deceived by misrepresentations in things which concern us dearly, though in the estimation of some mere trifles; for though there are many in society who exercise towards us benevolent feelings; still (with sorrow we confess it) there are others who make it their business to enlarge upon the least trifle, which tends to the discredit of any person of colour; and pronounce anathemas and denounce our whole body for the misconduct of this guilty one.

Freedom Journal, The nation’s first African American Newspaper, 1827

Left: John B. Russwurm and Rev. Samuel Cornish, editors of Freedom’s Journal.

In 1810 slavery was alive and in the South.

Contrary to what most believe there were still slaves in the North at this time with approximately seventy five percent of all Blacks being free in the North. These free Northern African Americans still were subject to racial segregation and racial prejudice. Some Northern states passed legislation for gradual abolition of their Black population.

In 1827, As group of prominent free African Americans met in the home of Bostin Crummel to vent and to discuss social, economic and political issues affecting them in their respective communities. In particular they were disgusted at the way the press was routinely questioning the integrity and morality of African American race.

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Right: The very first issue of Freedom’s Journal published on March 16m 1827 The consensus at that meeting was that they should begin their own newspaper for African Americans called Freedom’s Journal. An elderly gentleman named Rev. Samuel Cornish and a younger gentleman twenty eight year old gentleman named John B. Russwurm became the editors.

They proclaimed in their first issue, “Too long have others spoken for us … We wish to plead our own cause.”

The first issue of this new weekly was printed on March 16, 1827. 1 The Journal published relative information to the African American community in New York such as biographies of prominent African American, births, marriages and deaths. It was circulated in eleven states plus the Canada, Europe and Haiti. The Journal boasted a huge roster of subscription agents one of whom was David Walker of Boston. In 1829 Walker published four articles that called for rebellion of the African Americans called Walker’s Appeal in which he stated, "...it is no more harm for you to kill the man who is trying to kill you than it is for you to take a drink of water..." 2 In 1963, Allan Morrison stated in the article The Crusading Press,” The third issue of Freedom’s Journal…carried on its front page three articles indicative of the intent of the publication. One concerned the “Memoirs of Captain Paul Cuffee.” A successful Negro fisherman; another; entitled, “People of Colour,” addressed itself to the examination of slavery as a legal institution.; the third dealt with a “Cure for Drunkenness.” It would thus seem clear that the Journal aimed to: 1) report the accomplishments of Negroes, 2) bring about by reason and persuasion, the abolition of slavery, and 3) uplift the Negro himself.”3 The life of Freedom’s Journal, however, was not to be a long one, or even a smooth one.

A difference of opinion quickly developed between Russwurm and Cornish. Russwurm favored a return of blacks to Africa, Cornish opposed the idea. Six month after the beginning of the paper, Cornish quit because of the dispute. Russwurm continued to publish for another year and then left America permanently for Liberia. Cornish returned to the paper, changed its name to Rights for All and continued to publish for a short period of time before the paper disappeared into the shadows of history.”4

1

1800s Cornish & Russwur, Dr. Clint C. Wilson, II, Department of Journalism Howard University.

Ibid, Wilson 3 Alan Morrison, The Crusading Press, In Commemoration of the 100 th Anniversary of THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION, Ebony, September, 1963.

2

4

James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.6

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“This was a critical time in the development of black intellectual endeavors when free black people were promoting political ideas of their own and forging, for the first time, a national consciousness. This was a period when free blacks were building community institutions. It was also during these years, for the first time since Africans arrived on this continent, that blacks as a group split on whether to seek assimilation or some form of Black Nationalism. The dilemma first found expression when white abolitionists advocated colonization of people of African descent. Most whites supported colonization while most blacks opposed it. During this time—in the 1830s and 1840s—many whites, believing themselves superior, felt Africans could not fit into U.S. society. Advocates of colonization suggested that free blacks should be sent back to Africa, to South America, the Caribbean, and to the American West to live among themselves. This era set the stage for black spokespeople like Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman to influence and energize the efforts of the anti-slavery movement—increasing public pressure to eventually end African bondage and, as more than a few have argued, laying the foundations for the Civil War” 5 In connection with the anti-slavery movement, Freedom's Journal paved the way for 24 other black newspapers published before the Civil War twenty one of which are listed below:6 Table # 1 Pre-Civil War African American Newspapers Name Freedom’s Journal Rights of All The Weekly Advocate Colored American (Weekly Advocate changed to) The Elevator The National Watchman The Clarion The Peoples Press The Mystery The Genius of Freedom The Rams Horn The North Star The Moral Reform Magazine The Impartial Citizen The Christian Herald The Colored Man’s Journal Frederick Douglas’s Per (The North Star and The liberty party paper merged) The Alienated American The Christian Recorder (The Christian Herald changed to)

City New York, NY New York, NY New York, NY ……………………………

Albany, NY Troy, NY …………………………….

New York, NY Pittsburg, PA ………………………………

New York, NY Rochester, NY Philadelphia, PA Syracuse, NY Philadelphia, PA New York, NY Syracuse, NY

Date of Issue March 16, 1827 March 28, 1829 January 1837 March 4, 1837 1842 1842 1842 1843 1843 1845 January 1, 1847 November 1, 1847 1847 1848 1848 1851 1851

Cleveland, OH Philadelphia, PA

1852 1852

The Mirror of the Times The Herald of Freedom The Anglo African

San Francisco, CA Ohio New York, NY

1855 1855 July 23, 1859

5

Reginald Owens, The Journal for Multimedia History, Vol. 3 -2000 Louisiana Tech University, Ruston

6

Ibid, Owens

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Many of the papers were short lived and all of them were under extreme financial pressures. No editor, given this limited market, could expect to make money from such papers and indeed most of them had to depend on their own funds, or money from contributors both black and white, to keep publishing. But the tradition of an independent black press was established, and this was to prove more important than the longevity of any individual publication.7 The most influential of the pre-war papers the North Star appeared in 1847 with abolitionist leader Frederick Douglas as its editor.

Left: The first issue of the North Star issue on November 1, 1847 Douglas was inspired to start the North Star after working with abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison. Douglas was a subscriber to Garrison’s newspaper called The Liberator.

Garrison advocated a nonviolent strategy to end slavery based on utilizing the Constitution as a pro-slavery document and the dissolution of the Union. He saved up his earnings and traveled to hear Garrison speak to a group of abolitionists. While there Garrison asked Douglas to speak about his life as a slave prior to escaping and coming North. Nervously but powerfully Douglas inspired the audience with a heartfelt account of the cruelty of slave life. After the meeting Garrison asked Douglas to join him to fight for the emancipation of all African Americans. Douglas agreed and the two traveled and spoke together. Hearing that Douglass was up North giving speeches abut slavery, his former slave owner put a price on his head to bring him back South. With the help of some wealthy abolitionists friends Douglas escaped to Europe where he stayed for nineteen months in Britain and Ireland.

While in Europe Douglass’s wealthy white friends bought his freedom and purchased a printing press for him. Upon his return, in August 1843, Douglas attended the National Convention of Colored Citizens an anti-slavery convention held in Buffalo, New York.

This convention had an immense impact on Douglas and changed his ideology on the best way to emancipate the slaves. One of the speaker sat the convention was Henry Highland Garnet, a Presbyterian minister and a former slave from Maryland a proponent of direct action. Afterwards, Douglas was no longer speaking about nonviolent tactics preached by the Garrisonians, he was advocating direct violent action against the slaveholders.

7

James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.6

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Douglas’s friends at the Anti-Slavery Society were against his wanting to move to Rochester, New York to start the newspaper. He stated, "I still see before me a life of toil and trials..., but, justice must be done, the truth must be told...I will not be silent,” when he as questioned about his move. 8 Douglas set forth his credo in the first issue on November 1, 1847: “The object of the North Star will be to attack slavery in all forms and aspects, advocate universal emancipation, exact the standard of the colored people; and to hasten the day of freedom to our three million enslaved fellow countrymen.”9 Also in the first issue Douglas stated, “We are now about to assume the management of the editorial department of a newspaper, devoted to the cause of Liberty, Humanity and Progress. The position is one which, with the purest motives, we have long desired to occupy. It has long been our anxious wish to see, in this slave-holding, slave-trading, and Negro-hating land, a printing-press and paper, permanently established, under the complete control and direction of the immediate victims of slavery and oppression.

Animated by this intense desire, we have pursued our object, till on the threshold of obtaining it. Our press and printing materials are bought, and paid for. Our office secured, and is well situated, in the centre of business, in this enterprising city. Our office Agent, an industrious and amiable young man, thoroughly devoted to the interests of humanity, has already entered upon his duties. Printers well recommended have offered their services, and are ready to work as soon as we are prepared for the regular publication of our paper. Kind friends are rallying round us, with words and deeds of encouragement. Subscribers are steadily, if not rapidly coming in, and some of the best minds in the country are generously offering to lend us the powerful aid of their pens. The sincere wish of our heart, so long and so devoutly cherished seems now upon the eve of complete realization.

It is scarcely necessary for us to say that our desire to occupy our present position at the head of an Antislavery Journal, has resulted from no unworthy distrust or ungrateful want of appreciation of the zeal, integrity, or ability of the noble band of white laborers, in this department of our cause; but, from a sincere and settled conviction that such a Journal, if conducted with only moderate skill and ability, would 8 9

North Star, www.wikipedia.org James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.7

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do a most important and indispensable work, which it would be wholly impossible for our white friends to do for us.

It is neither a reflection on the fidelity, nor a disparagement of the ability of our friends and fellow-laborers, to assert what "common sense affirms and only folly denies," that the man who has suffered the wrong is the man to demand redress,—that the man STRUCK is the man to CRY OUT—and that he who has endured the cruel pangs of Slavery is the man to advocate Liberty. It is evident we must be our own representatives and advocates, not exclusively, but peculiarly—not distinct from, but in connection with our white friends. In the grand struggle for liberty and equality now waging, it is meet, right and essential that there should arise in our ranks authors and editors, as well as orators, for it is in these capacities that the most permanent good can be rendered to our cause.”10 The North Star lasted until June 1851 at which time Douglas merged it with Gerrit Smith’s Liberty Party Paper to form a new paper called Frederick Douglas’ Paper.

There was a brief interruption of Douglas’ editorship when he was rumored to have been involved in John Brown’s raid on Harper’s Ferry. Threatened with arrest, he fled first to Canada and then to London where he remained until the danger disappeared.

Returning to America he resumed the editorship of the paper until a mounting sea of debts forced him to close it down in 1860. It was about this time that he began the publication of Douglas Magazine in which, after the outbreak of the Civil War he crusaded unceasingly for the use of black soldiers in the Union Army and the issuance of an Emancipation Proclamation – both events later came to pass.11 The increase in the number of black papers coincided, however, with a decline in militant attitudes among those in the black press. It was as if after years of fighting so relentlessly for the end of slavery, the black press was now taking time to catch its breadth before plunging ahead into the brave new world it helped to create and which seemed promised by the victory of the North over the South and the coming reconstruction. In commenting on this period historian, Lerone Bennett, Jr. has written: “After the Civil War, the influence of the Negro press diminished. There were, to be sure, vigorous Negro editors like T. Thomas Fortune and Calvin Chase, but the press, as a whole, was not as militant as the North Star and other periodicals of the abolitionist era.”

10

The North Star, 3 December 1847; Reprinted in Philip Foner, ed., Life and Writings of Frederick Douglass, vol. 1 (New York: International Publishers, 1950), p. 280.

11

James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.7-8

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Whatever hopes there were for the brave new world, faded under the harshness and pervasiveness of the racism of the South turned loose on blacks after the North, in the compromise of 1877, removed federal presence from the South. Former slave masters were again free to do unto blacks as they willed. Given the reality of America at that time – the brutality of the South and the cold indifference of the North – this perhaps was not the best of times for militancy. One editor who tried and failed was Ida B. Wells, a teacher and publisher of the Memphis Free Speech. In 1892, she saw her printing press wrecked because she had published an article that suggested whiote capitalists had inspired the murder of three black businessmen. She was firced to flee the city to save her life. 12 In 1893, the year after Wells is chased from Memphis, the Columbian Exposition opened in Chicago. At a cost of 26 million dollars, it was the largest and most expensive event of its kind in history. The purpose of the fair was to showcase American ingenuity to the world, but its omission of African Americans from exhibits on US history prompted Ida B. Wells and Frederick Douglas to issue a pamphlet in protest. The exposition's organizers offered to set aside one day for African Americans, Colored American Day. The white press ridiculed the idea. Wells denounced it, but finally Frederick Douglas accepting the compromise and agreed to speak. On the morning of August 25th, 1893, nearly three thousand black Americans donned starched collars, bustles, and top hats and came out to enjoy the day. One of them was Robert S. Abbott, the 27 year-old printing student from Georgia on his first visit North. Abbott had come to the exposition to sing spirituals with the Hampton Institute Quartet. His presence as Frederick Douglas' speech that day would change Abbott's life and redirect the course of African American journalism. Abbott sat in Festival Hall as Frederick Douglas rose to address the audience. At 75, Douglas was visibly slowed by age. His hands shook. His voice faltered as he spoke, "The question will be asked that is asked by our friends in (Unintell.) that is why we do more ... As Douglas began to speak, a rowdy group of whites tried to shout him down. Douglas threw aside his prepared text and drew himself up to his full commanding height. His voice rumbled through the cavernous hall.

Douglas continued, "Men talk of the 'negro problem'. There is no negro problem. The problem is whether they American people have honesty enough, loyalty enough, honor enough, patriotism enough to live up to their own constitution. We intend that the American people shall learn the great lesson of the brotherhood of man and the fatherhood of God from our presence among them."13 In the film Black Press Soldiers Without Swords, James Grossman, states,” Eighteenninety-three is a year in which one can see a passing of leadership from Frederick Douglas, who delivers a fiery speech at the Columbian Exposition and dies soon after, Robert Abbott, who would be a future leader of his race who's coming to Chicago for the first time. Ida B. Wells had recently emerged as a major leader, certainly a major voice

12 13

James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.8-9 The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998

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within the African American community. and what's interested is all three of these people are journalists.” 14 This was also the period of the Atlanta Compromise in which Booker T. Washington, then an obscure owner and teacher of Tuskegee Institute catapulted into national prominence from a single speech delivered September 18, 1895 at the Cotton State’s Exposition in Atlanta, Georgia. He told his brethren to “cast down your buckets where you are” and cultivate friendly relations with Southern white men. “Let us work to earn their respect,” he urged for “the wisest among my race understand that the agitation of questions of social equality is the extreme folly.” And then the promise to blacks and whites, “In all things that are purely social we can be as separate as the fingers, yet one as the hand in all things essential to mutual progress.” Thus the die was cast, Blacks were being told to put their dreams of political and social equality on the shelf. White America was being told that there was no need to fear blacks because they were not interested in becoming their social or political equal. (A more in-depth discusses of Booker T. Washington appears later in the work). 15 Washington was advocating a philosophy of accommodationism. Whereas, another person emerged that was advocating activism in the pursuit of social, economic and political equity with white America. That person was W.E. B. Dubois, the first African American recipient of a PH.D degree from Harvard. This division was primarily concerned with the methods that should be used when seeking ways to elevate the race literally and economically. From that point in history. And even into the civil rights movement, there have been some subtle divisions, and sometimes clear and overt divisions, of thought among black editors and publishers, but the basic editorial philosophy has remained the same – deliver the message with strength and survive.

Some of those divisions are said to have been injurious to the progress of black people; are said to have been responsible, even if indirectly, for a breakdown in efforts to remove racial barriers.16 In the first 20 years of the new century, airplanes, automobiles, radios, and moving pictures revolutionized communications in the United States. The newspapers were in the vanguard of this revolution, feeding the nation's growing appetite for news and information. Between 1900 and 1910, over 2600 newspapers were published in the United States, more than at any time before or since. Black newspapers sprung up to serve growing communities from New York to the new cities of the west. In 1910 alone, over 275 black newspapers were in print with a combined readership of over half a million.17

14

The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998 James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.8-9 16 The African American Press; With Special Reference to Four Newspapers, 1827-1965, Charles A. Simmons, 1998, McFarland & Co, Inc. p. 6 17 The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998 15

18

Left: Chicago Defender ad in The Crisis magazine, November 1942 One such newspaper was the Chicago Defender.

The first issue of The Chicago Defender, with a press run of 300 copies, appeared on March 4th, 1905. With a showmanship and hyperbole that was to make him a fortune, Abbott heralded the four-page paper as a the "world's greatest weekly". The Defender was sold in Chicago and the Midwest on consignment through individual agents. As the orders poured in, Abbott made a decision that would change his fortune and shape the future for thousands of others. He sent the Defender into the South, home to 90 percent of the African American population. There, the Defender has a potential black audience nearly 200 times larger than in Chicago, an audience that was hungry to hear what Abbott had to say. Acclaimed journalist Vernon Jarrett, the father in law of President Obama’s Senior Aid Valerie Jarrett stated in the film, “I have a teacher who I shall never forget who played a little game with us every Friday afternoon when we were in the first grade before we had learned to read well. She would have all of us kids line up with our chest out and she had given us a name. The little girls, Sojourner Truth, Harriet Tubman, Ida B. Wells. The little boys, Booker T. Washington, Frederick Douglas. and one day she told me that I was Robert S. Abbott. and I was supposed to tell my classmates why they should read the Chicago Defender. and I can remember standing up straight, walking up, and I said, "My name is Robert S. Abbott and I am the editor of the Chicago Defender and you ought to read my newspaper because my newspaper's standing up for our race."18 Within a decade, the Defender out-sold every African American newspaper in the country and Robert S. Abbott, the son of former slaves, was on his way to becoming the most powerful black man in the nation. By 1920, the Defender's circulation soared to over 100,000. Each copy passed through the hands of at least five readers and Abbott's paper and it's message reached more than half a million African Americans each week.

In the South, the Defender was read aloud in homes and in barber shops, on street corners, and in churches.19 Legendary journalist Patrick Washburn, stated “Robert Abbott had a real problem. How could he circulate his paper in the South? So he goes out to the railroad yards to one of the most distinguished professions in the black community at that time, the sleeping car porters. and he hands them bundles of his newspapers, which they hide in the train, and 18 19

Ibid Ibid

19

as these trains roll through the South, instead of being put off at the stations like they used to be, which are in the town limits or the city limits, these porters would step out between cars or at the back of the train, toss 'em out in the countryside and suddenly all these Southern cities found they couldn't stop the black newspapers, no matter what they did.” “ Robert S. Abbott became the first black millionaire to become a millionaire as a publisher of a newspaper. All before him has a mission and that mission was not necessarily to make a lot of money. But Abbott found out that you could make some money, said Vernon Jarrett and Patrick Washburn, both in the film. 20 Abbott did not follow that conservative tradition. Ignoring the sacred canon of black editors, he overcame the economic problem through the use of graphic and detailed accounts of violent news and large and glaring headlines in red type. How also created news. Did such a bold and unwelcome move set the black press back in its quest for national believability? Not only did this organ have the audacity to use a different style for reporting black news, but this new style proved to be so successful among black readers that circulation figures increased to heights never before obtained by a black newspaper.

Abbott is also given credit (even if incorrectly) for starting the Great Migration, an exodus in which hundreds of thousands of blacks in the South gave up their homes at the suggestion of the editor and moved north. This tradition of militant reporting carried over to include criticism of the federal government for allowing the unfair treatment of black military personnel during World War I.21 Black publishers grew rich and powerful. Abbott started The Defender with $13.75 and became one of America’s first black millionaires. By 1929, the Defender circulation was 230,000 a week, but the Pittsburgh Courier was biggest, topping 300,000 with 15 editions across the country. In 1932, Courier publisher Robert L. Vann, Abbott and others steered black voters en masse to the Democratic Party, breaking traditional ties to the Republican Party of Abraham Lincoln and helping to elect Franklin D. Roosevelt President. Gunnar Myrdal’s landmark 1944 study, “An American Dilemma: The Negro Problem and Modern Democracy,” said the strongest, most influential institution among blacks was its crusading press. It set the stage for—and helped engineer— monumental change from school desegregation in 1954 to the voting rights bill of 1957, the marches, sit-ins and civil rights legislation of 1964.

Black papers became the primary means of group expression and main community service outlet, reporting on job opportunities and retailers that didn’t discriminate, and covering charity events in uplifting society pages with big pictures of smiling, dignified black people enjoying each other’s company. Politics, sports, money and social issues Left: The founder members of the Afro American Press Association in 1894.

20

The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998

21

The African American Press; With Special Reference to Four Newspapers, 1827-1965, Charles A. Simmons, 1998, McFarland & Co, Inc. p. 7

20

were reported from the perspective of black readers.

The careers of Lena Horne, Little Richard, Paul Robeson, and many other entertainment greats were promoted in their early stages before major media took notice, and editorial writers crusaded for open housing, quality schools, voting rights, fair employment, and equal accommodations—demands that later formed the civil rights agenda. There were bylined stories from America’s leading black activists and intellects—Richard Wright, Gwendolyn Brooks, and Langston Hughes in The Chicago Defender and W.E.B. DuBois, Zora Neale Hurston, Marcus Garvey, and Elijah Muhammad in the Pittsburgh Courier.

Throughout the years, seeing that they had more in common than differences Black editors have tried to organize as means 1.) to establish plans to be treated as serious journalists 2.) having cooperative means of attracting advertising revenue from main-stream corporations and businesses to support a daily newspaper. The first effort was the formation of the Afro American Press Association in early 1890s the exact date was undetermined. Its founding members included: W. Allison Sweeney, The Courtly and Eloquent Editor of the Indianapolis (Ind.) "Freeman" John Mitchell, Jr., Editor of the PLANET--re-elected President.

H.C. Smith, The Brilliant editor of the Cleveland (O.) Gazette Col. Wm. Murrell, The Duelistic Editor of the Newark (N.J.) Trumpet Rev. G. W. Clinton, A.B., Editor of Salisbury (N.C.) "Star of Zion"-Secretary W. Calvin Chase, Esq., The Aggressive Editor of the Washington (D.C.) "Bee"-- A National Character--Elected Member of the Executive Committee Rev. J Francis Robinson, The Oratorical Editor of the Richmond (Va.) "Gospel Trumpeter"-- Elected Chaplain E.E. Cooper, Editor of "Colored American" -- A Journalistic Hustler--One of the most Progressive Newspaper Men now in the Business.

Mrs. Josie D. Heard, Of the Philadelphia (Pa.) "Christian Recorder" --ExSecretary

21

Right: Column on the Afro American Press Association’s Annual Meeting, September 15,1894 At its Annual Meeting on September 15, 1894, its president John Mitchell Jr, editor of the planet stated, “ another year has passed away and we are again face to face to discuss those questions, which will result in the material advancement of our profession, and to devise plans and secure the means by which Afro-American journalism may take its rightful place in the field of literature.

There has been a marked advancement in the number of race publications since our last meeting. Many had a brief existence.

The Afro-American press is increasing in importance and influence and is demanding and securing a hearing at the bar of public opinion.”

Journals whose appeals a few years back was regarded with derision are now treated with respect.

In organized effort comes a proportionate increase in power. We cannot afford to do otherwise than to build up this Association, which can be made a wall of protection to the struggling journalist and a bulwark of protection to ourselves.

Our efforts have generally been confined to the realm of the weekly newspaper, but there is a growing demand for a broader field, and the lines set have been disarranged by bold journalists who seem to have success in the paths hereto unknown to the journalist of color. We refer to the publication of daily newspapers. That such publications are a necessity admits no question. That they can be successfully run as race journals is a matter which time alone can decide.

We are of the opinion, however, that when this era comes upon us, the distinctive characteristics will have disappeared and the publisher who hopes to succeed will have to run a local daily just as any other such journal is run pandering to no class, yielding obedience to no clique, but declaring for human rights and the enunciation of those principles, which will make the world our field, and man-kind our brothers.”22 The Afro-American Press Association was short lived; the exact date of its demise was not learned. However, it would take close to sixty years later before another organization of any significance and staying power was organized. That organization 22

John Mitchell Jr; The Public Life, Library of Virginia, www.lva.gov/exhibits/mitchell/a-apress.htm

22

was the National Newspaper Publishers’ Association (“NNPA”). In his book, A History of the Black Press, Clint C. Wilson II stated, “When John H. Sengstacke, then in his 30s and heir to the controlling fortunes of the Robert S. Abbott Publishing Co., sent out his call for a meeting of Negro newspaper publishers in Chicago for February 29 through March 2, 1940, he had in mind a conference that would give major attention to advertising, editorial, and newsgathering problems and would substantially recognize inevitable and omnipresent racial matters. It had been difficult enough in former years to bring together a common purpose a large representation of the men-and a few womenwho made up the Black Press. Yet, except for a five-year period, the Black newspaper publishers and editors had some form of national organization ever since the first meeting in Cincinnati in 1875 called by ex-Lieutenant Governor Pinchback of Louisiana. Before the 1940 call by Sengstacke, Carl Murphy had stressed the operating economies to be derived from a cooperative association of publishers, but even the bait of cheaper engraving costs, exchange of news and pictures, and a central clearing house for publishing problems and ideas was insufficient to overcome the drawbacks of distance, travel expense, sacrifice of time, and questionable benefits of membership in an organization.

The Negro newspaper had long proved its usefulness and its indispensability both for the Black masses and for the Negro elite. It had acquired a niche that the general press then had no interest in challenging and was, like its predecessors; the major dispenser of news and opinion for an isolated people. Other Negro groups had long since found the path to organization successful; among them were physicians, lawyers, clergy, land-grant college presidents, educators, musicians, and war veterans. The question was, ”Why couldn’t the publishers?”

Sengstacke thought that the first step in joining hands was for Black publishers to get to know each other, and he said as much in his opening message at the first session of the 1940 conference. The meeting was, he said, designed for ”harmonizing our energies in the common purpose for the benefit of Negro journalism.” Sengstacke outlined the three-day program and left room for a catch-all item labeled ”business in general.”

The newspapers represented at that first gathering included the leaders of the Negro fourth estate and three-fourths of the Negro newspaper circulation. Representatives from 20 commercial newspapers from all sections except the far western part of the country attended the Chicago conference. The following newspapers were represented: Examiner – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Tribune – Detroit, Michigan Call – Kansas City, Missouri Louisiana Weekly – New Orleans, Louisiana Courier – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 23

Tribune – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Guide – Omaha, Nebraska Metropolitan Post - Chicago, Illinois Michigan Chronicle – Detroit, Michigan Iowa Bystander – Des Moines, Iowa Afro-American - Baltimore, Maryland Minneapolis Spokesman and St. Paul Recorder; Minnesota Bee - Chicago, Illinois Progressive Herald – Syracuse, New York Defender – Chicago, Illinois World - Memphis, Tennessee Journal and Guide - Norfolk, Virginia In addition, three noncommercial newspapers were represented at the conference: AME Church Review; a sectarian journal – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Postal Alliance, a trade weekly – St. Louis, Missouri Record of Cheyney College – Cheyney, Pennsylvania23 Today, the NNPA consists of over 200 weekly newspapers that reaches more than 19.5 million readers.

In the 1960s, black newspaper circulation declined and the paper's power and influence began to wane. And even as the papers' numbers have diminished and their voices muted, the need for an independent advocacy press remains. The words written by editors Russwurm and Cornish in 1827 continued to resonate. "Too long have others spoken for us."24 In both traditional newspapers and magazines, the black press had earned its position as the griot of African American culture. No conversation about the history of such publications can be made without discussing Johnson Publishing Company (“JPC”) and how it revolutionized black journalism.

JCP was founded in 1942 by John H. Johnson. His iconic magazine EBONY and JET are household names within the African American community. Today as in the past JCP “is committed to celebrating the vibrancy of Black culture by operating trusted brands and delivering products of the highest quality that celebrate, inform, engage, entertain, inspire, and enhance the lives of people.” The company’s mission “focuses on education, financial literacy and aids prevention. With over 20 million readers each month the company is thriving to impact these three areas. An elementary charter school was recently opened in Chicago in honor or John H. Johnson.” “Johnson was born in 23 24

Clint C. Wilson II, A History of the Black Press, Published by Howard University Press (1997).

The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998

24

Arkansas City, Arkansas, in January 1918. He became known as a businessman and humanitarian. Mr. Johnson and his wife, Eunice Walker Johnson built an empire in Chicago that included EBONY, JET and Fashion Fair Cosmetics. Today these publications hold the number one and number three spots in terms of readership of black American magazines. Together they have a readership of over 20 million. “ “In November 1942, John H. Johnson began his publishing career, when he co-founded JPC, as editor and publisher of NEGRO DIGEST and later BLACK WORLD. In 1945 he founded Ebony and modeled it after the now defunct LIFE magazine. Over his lifetime he amassed many honors including being recently selected as the recipient of a United States postage stamp.” Johnson’s daughter Linda Johnson Rice is the current Chairwoman. The Chief Financial Officer is Desiree Rogers. Rogers was appointed Chief Executive Officer in 2012 after serving as White House Social Secretary for President Barack Obama where see completed over three hundred fifty events during her tenure. 25 In March 2007, Congress passed a resolution, sponsored by the Congressional Black Caucus, honoring the one hundred and eightieth birthday of the black press as "the strong, influential voice of the Black Community." The NNPA was the recipient of the resolution.

Some believe that the heyday of the black press has passed as many publications have closed due to financial problems. This could have more to do with how the internet has changed the publishing industry. “Once at the epicenter of the digital divide, AfricanAmericans are now 44% more likely to take a class online, 30% more likely to visit Twitter, and download more movies via the Internet than other ethnic communities.

African-American mothers, in particular, are 68% more likely to read articles online and 45% more likely to listen to music online.”26 Others belie that the black press should change its tactics to become more proactive instead of reactive. Journalist Evelyn Cunningham stated, “the black press today seems to react only, react to a -- an issue or a situation or react to something that's in the white press. We very rarely in our black press today initiate, dig up stories or our own. And I think we do need a black press today, very, very much so. We have no voice that tells us about our own lives.”27 One thing is for sure, for now the black press is alive and continuing to provide the African American people with a voice of advocacy ensuring that the ideas of equality, liberty and justice as authored by our nation’s founders.

25

Johnson Publishing Company, www.johnsonpublsihing.com African - American Consumers: Still Vital, Still Growing 2012 Report, The Nielson Company, 2012 27 The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998 26

25

SPRINGFIELD’S BLACK PRESS (1886 – 2013) Following is a detailed discussion of the black press in Springfield, Illinois from the date of the State Capital, the first African American newspaper through today with VOICE magazine, the last black publication to be formed in 2010. There are currently three African American publications in operation in Springfield, Springfield’s Voice, PURE News, The Capital City Courier and VOICE Magazine.

There were twenty black publications started between 1886 and 2013. Of the twenty, this writer was unable to find any information on three of them which include the Eye (1890-1893), Argus (1913 – 1915), Chronicle (1917 – 1917) and the Community Echo (1960s).

Below is a table of The Black Press in Springfield, Il (1886 – 2013): Table #2 The Black Press in Springfield, IL (1886 – 2013) Newspaper Name State Capital Messenger Eye National Standard Enterprise Illinois Record Illinois State Messenger Leader Illinois Conservator-Globe Forum Illinois Chronicle Argus Chronicle Negro Democrat Community Echo Capitol City News Spirit of Black Springfield Voice of the Black Community Pure News USA Capitol City Courier Illinois Voice/VOICE Magazine

Dates In Circulation 1886 - 1915 1888 - 1889 1890 - 1893 1894 - 1903

Editor

1897 - 1899 1897 - 1900 1902-1918 1902-1950 1904-1927 1912-1969 1913-1915 1917-1917 1934-1936 Circa 1950s -?

1942-1951 1968-1968 1973-2000

Charles Hall H. T. Bowman W. T. Scott E. L. Rogers E. L. Rogers Inman E. Foster Sr. Editor unknown Editor unknown Dr. Robert H. Beverly Lottie Bridgewater Simeon Osby Willis Logan Horace G. Livingston

1983-Present 2006 - Present 2010 - Present

T.C. Christian Michael Pittman W.E. “Pete” Reeves

S.B. Turner Thomas T. Brown Unknown G. H. McDaniel

26

As previously stated, the discussion which follows will give detailed information on the particular newspaper such as founder, date started, staff, location, political affiliation, mottos, missions and slogans. Included are various articles, columns and editorials from the editors and contributors of these publications. Emphasis is taken to include those works that cover some of the major individuals and events in the history of Sangamon County, Springfield, Illinois, the State of Illinois and the United States.

In some instances this writer was able to interview some of the editors. It should be noted that not all editors, writers, other significant individuals in the events being discussed were willing to participate or contribute to this work. The reader will be unable to ascertain which individuals these are because great care and much research time was invoked to give the reader a true portrait of the person being discussed.

27

STATE CAPITAL (1886-1915) Left: S.B. F. Turner The State Capital was a Republican newspaper established in 1886 by S. B. Turner. It’s motto was “GIVE US JUSTICE. MORE, WE DO NOT ASK, LESS, WILL NOT CONTNENT US.” It describes itself as “A STALLWART FEARLESS – Republican Journal” in its masthead. It was published by the State Capital Publishing Company at a subscription of $1.50 per year. The capital became one of the most reliable papers edited by the “Afro-American” which was the term used to describe Blacks at that time. Its success was due largely to the financial and editorial prowess of Turner. The paper was widely read by Black citizens in and around the capital of Illinois.

Turner was born July 12, 1854 in West Feliciana, Louisiana. At the age of fourteen having mastered the English language Turner works as an apprentice in a confectionary shop and afterwards became a very successful baker. He also worked in a wood and coal yard before becoming a trusted worker in the office of Secretary of State Hon. H.D. Dement in Chicago. It was here that he entered Business College, which is credited with his financial success as a journalist. There were very few financially successful Black journalist during this period. While in Springfield Turner became very active in politics and was recognize by his party for faithful service. It was his political interest which led to the formation of the State Capital described as the “leading organ of the race, west of the Ohio river” and the “recognized organ of the Afro-American of Illinois, and wields a potent influence in politics.” (Penn, 1891).

I. Garland Penn states that there were three Black newspapers that were unsuccessful prior to the State Capital; however, this writer was unable to locate any information on any Black newspapers in Springfield Illinois prior to the State Capital.

When asked about his success Turner stated: “Energy,

perseverance

and

individual 28

attention to the enterprise, will eventuate in success. Any man with good business habits, a fair education, and pleasing address, who will not subordinate his advertising columns to trashy local news, can bring to his support a reasonable share of business patronage, which always pays well. Short editorials, brief correspondence from other cities and towns, a high moral tone, condemning wrong, defending right, urging the payment of subscriptions due, dropping from the list the always-promising and never paying subscribers, will insure success.”

(Penn, 1891) Turner’s reputation as an astute business man allowed him the privilege of doing business with local banks when other Black businessmen were unable to do so. When asked about Afro-Americans role in business and politics Turner stated, “When the Negro in American begins business for himself, and accumulates wealth and intelligence, the race problem then will be solved. Business must be first and politics last.” (Penn, 1891) The State Capital set the standard for the many African American publishers and editors to follow.

29

THE MESSENGER (1887-1900) The Messenger was a Democratic newspaper established in 1887. A November 3, 1988 copy of The Messenger lists the publishers and proprietors as being “EDWARDS and BROWN.” The paper’s editor was Thomas T. Brown so we infer that he was one half of the publishing company. The writer was unable to locate any information on Edwards the other half of the publishing company.

The Local Editor was William Lee. The paper was headquartered at 827 North 6th Street, Springfield, Illinois. The subscription cost was $1.50 per year.

The left side of the papers masthead stated: “This paper is Edited, Owned and Controlled by Negros.” The right side stated: “WE BELEVIE THAT TARIFF means BURDEN to the LABORING CLASSES, and no one will gainsay that our race is not one of that class.”

The paper supported the Democratic Party and was very active in trying to sway African Americans away from the Republican Party to vote Democratic in the 1888 elections as evidenced by the following front page ad that appeared on November 9, 1888: COLORED VOTERS! It is your duty to vote to benefit our race. As long as the Republican party can keep up the Color Line, so long will our boys and girls be kept out of stores and workshops.

Among the list of endorsements for the national Democratic Ticket was Grover Cleveland for President and Allen G. Thurman for vice President. It endorsed Governor John M. Palmer for re-election .

Editorials such as the following in support of African Americans joining the Democratic paper were very prevalent in every issue: “That the Negro of thought has joined the democratic party was never more fully demonstrated than in last Monday evening when, when Lee and Turner attacked Eastman and Scott.”

30

“In the gallery of Faneuil Hall there sat a cultured young man, one of the “curled darling” of Boston society, while a meeting was in progress which denounced the abolitionists and in a measure justified the murder of Elijah P. Lovejoy. The soul of that young man revolted at the thought, and he then and there vowed that his life and all its great powers should be devoted to the cause of the slave.

How well he kept that vow all who have heard of Wendell Phillips know. The slave never had a truer friend. And the last letter issued to the colored people of Massachusetts, by Wendell Phillips, advise them to vote the democratic ticket.”

Notwithstanding the support of The Messenger and other similar African American newspapers, Grover Cleveland lost the 1888 election in part because he was a staunch opponent of giving special favors for any economic group. For instance, he vetoed a bill appropriating grain and seed to drought stricken farmers, vetoed a bill to give pensions to disabled Civil War veterans and forced the powerful railroads to give back 81 million acres of land granted to them by the U.S. government for western expansion. Grover Cleveland was the only U.S. President to leave office and be re-elected four years later.

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ADVANCE CITIZEN (1892-1932) The Advance Citizen was a weekly Republican paper started in 1894 or 1894 depending on the source by H.T. Bowman who was also its editor. Its motto on its masthead stated, “A Negro Paper Against Prohibition, Republican in Politics and Fearless Advocate for Justice to its People.” It was published by Citizen Publishing Company with H.T. Bowman as its Managing Editor and his wife F.C. Bowman as its manager Mailing Department. The cost of the paper was $2.00 per year.

The paper was located at 116 South 8th Street in Springfield, Illinois. This was also the address for the Negro Civic and Personal Liberty League of Illinois in which James S. Easley of Jacksonville, Illinois was the President and H.T. Bowman was the organization’s Secretary. The organization’s State Lecturer was Professor G.H. L. Nelson of Springfield. Professor Nelson was also the organizer of the Negro Republicans of Sangamon County of which H.T. Bowman was s member.

The Advance Citizen also had an office in Peoria, Illinois locate at 204 ½ main Street. Its Peoria staff included: Fred Banks – Assistant Business Manager Harry Tisdell – Local Editor Mrs. Ida Sanford –Society Editor It also had an office located in East St. Louis, Illinois at 827a Missouri Avenue.

On its Publisher’s section, the paper state that it is an advocate or endorsed by the following: -

“Organ of the Afro-American Protective Republican League of Illinois” “Endorsed by the Illinois State Convention of the United Colored Personal Liberty League of Il. at Peoria Sept. 9, 1909.”

Organ of the Negro Civic Personal Liberty League of Il.”

The Advance Citizen was also a Member of the American Press Association that had offices in New York and Chicago.

An ardent Republican newspaper, like most African American newspapers of the day, it supported the re-election of President William H. Taft. The paper stated, “we are yet 32

for the re-nomination of Pres. Taft.” Many African American were supporters of President Taft as a result of his Acceptance Speech from July 28, 1908 in which he stated, “THE REPUBLICAN PLATFORM, ADOPTED AT CHICAGO, EXPLICITLY DEMANDS JUSTICE FOR ALL MEN WITHOUT REGRD TO RACE OR COLOR, AND JUST AS EXPLICITLY DECLARES FOR THE ENFORCEMENT, AND WITHOUT RESERVATION, IN LETTER AND SPIRIT OF THE THITEENTH, FOUTEENTH AND FIFTEENTH AMENDMENTS TO THE CONBSTITUTION. IT IS NEEDLESS TO STATE THAT I STAND WITH MY PARTY SQUARELY ON THAT PLANK IN THE PLATFORM, AND BELIEVE THAT EQUAL JUSTICE TO ALL MEN, AND THE FAIR AND IMPARTIAL ENFORCEMENT OF THESE AMENDMENTS IS IN KEEPING WITH THE REAL AMERICAN SPIRIT OF FAIR PLAY.” The above quote was placed as advertisements in the newspaper along with the following: “PRESIDENT TAFT’S DEEP SYMPATHY FOR THE RACE I am fully alive to the heart pang that a colored man endures when suffering from the contemptuous insults of white men not all his equal either in point of intelligence or devotion to duty. I know the sense if injustice that has oftentimes burned itself into his breast when he realize that his life has been trampled upon and his claims to fair treatment rejected solely because of the color of his skin” – President William Howard Taft “I KNOW THE BURDENS YOU HAVE TO BEAR I know the burdens you have to bear. I can understand the disadvantages under which you labor. I know of your sufferings, metal and otherwise, and humiliations. I can understand what they are and how and how hard they are to bear, bit I want you to know that there are a lot of good people in this world who sympathize deeply with you and are anxious to help you in your hard course. – From Speech of President Taft at Georgia Industrial School, May 1, 1912 Taft publically endorsed Booker T. Washington’s program of race submission as a means for uplifting the African American race. I call this Washington’s Doctrine of Accommodation because it put the burden of acceptance, intolerance and racial justice on the backs of African Americans instead of it being a shared burden carried by both races. President Taft also believed that African Americans should stay out of politics as did Washington.

In contrast directly under the above were short editorials which were quotes from Theodore Roosevelt that attempting to show how Roosevelt’s platform of “Hope” and the progressive Party had abandoned African Americans.

33

“THE DOOR OF HOPE – 1902 I cannot comment to take the position that the door of hope – the door of opportunity – is to be shut upon any man, no matter how worthy, purely upon the ground of race or color. – “ Theodore Roosevelt “TEN YEARS LATER – 1912 It would be much worse than useless to try to build up the Progressive party in these southern states, where there is no real Republican party, by appealing to the Negroes or to the man who in the past have derived their sole standing from leading and manipulating the Negroes. “ – Theodore Roosevelt Taft lost re-election and went on to become a U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

H.T. Bowman was politically active and used his newspaper to support and endorse the candidates of his choice as evidenced by the previous ad supporting the re-election of President Taft and the following short editorials: “G.O.P. of Sangamon County can now prove it is not color blind. Ex-Supervisor J.B. Osby, a Negro is a representative candidate for the nomination of coroner.”

“The white political bosses who think the gambler, craps shooter and red light sport is the representative Negro, have another thought coming. The Negroes of today want intelligence, high social and moral attainment in men who are selected as their leaders and agents.”

On March 2, 1912 the following editorial appeared in the Citizen.

Some Republican candidates seem to think they can get the Negro vote without using the Negro press, particularly in Sangamon County. They forget that there are more than 2,480 Negro voters in the county and that over 2,000 of them are Republicans. They read their journals the same as you read yours., and are governed by them to the same extent that you are by the white paper.

The Negro knows you are not after the office for your health, and if he don’t see something you are doing for him or his people to merit favor, you look just the same to him as the Democrat that fails to do the right thing.

You can only buy the masses of the Negro vote by telling them through the Negro preshow well you would like to have their votes and through the Negro papers make your promises.

Ben Rich done that for sixteen years, and you see how he got along. But Ben made so many bad, bad promises that it is all over with him now. They will go the 2,400 strong for any Democrat for county recorder before that will ever trust the foxy Ben Rich again. Try the Negro press if you want Negro votes.”

34

On October 5, 1912 the following editorial concerning Ben Rich appeared in the Citizen The Negro Republicans of Sangamon County have determined to give Hon. Ben Rich their solid vote and helper-elect him County recorder. This means they are going to support the Taft, Denee ticket from president down County Surveyor.

They know the worth of a G.O.P. victory. And the benefit such men can and will be to them.”

Seven months later the editorials changed from non-support to support for Ben Rich and his re-election as Sangamon County Coroner. What were the events that led to the Citizen’s change of endorsement? Was it a promise of more advertising for the newspaper? Was it the offer of a patronage job? The answers to these questions could be a multitude of different things. What is known is that some type of deal was cut to warrant such a change in political support.

Many white merchant did not want to advertise with black newspapers even though they receive large sums of revenue from Black patronage. H.T. Bowman also understood that in order to be successful a newspaper must obtain advertising revenue from outside of the Black community. A brief editorial stated: “Merchants who expect Negro Patronage Should Advertise in Negro Papers.”

It is evident that H.T. Bowman that the African American vote and patronage came with a cost. He saw the Black press as the connector between white politicians and white merchants and the African American community.

The following article appeared in a 1908 issue on whether or not voters in East St. Louis would elect the Commission form of government as opposed to the Aldermanic form of government: “EDITORIAL East St. Louis is to vote on the adoption of the Commission form of Municipal Government Tuesday, October 22nd. In this issue the political manipulators are giving to the “common people” masses, a very complex and dangerous proposition. Commission Form is an Autocratic Government, a ruling of the rich and aristocratic , a predominate power in the hands of a selected few. It is no more convenient to the Negro than to the working or wage earning white man; it puts the poor man out of politics and make it the game of the capitalist and real soberning politician. Rock Island took it on and soon brought about a riot, incited by its mayor. Springfield has it and if the masses could vote a change it would take no electioneering to drive the Form of Government of the Capital City any day or time the removal of the aldermanic plan does away with your representatives that the working man can go to any hour or any place and puts in their place five high toned monarchs, disposed representatives , who only have time to see those of their exclusive class. With fifty men in complete control they have power to appoint City Clerk, Treasurer, City 35

Attorney and all other offices now filled by the Aldermen. This is not all, with it the promoters can do away with all Township Organization except assistant supervisors, thereby making the county clerk assessor for east St. Louis, the Overseer of the Poor and County Treasurer Township Collector. These with many other powers it gives to the selected few , are the disadvantages under which Commission Form of Government places the masses. The common people under. It takes the ruling of the city from the people and makes the people submissive to the aristocrats, the rich. Ewe are not attempting advising all the people because –there are journals to advise every class of the laboring element – those that will suffer. But we do say to our people in East St. Louis – the Negros –Avoid danger. Vote against the Commission Form of Government and be Free a few years longer.”

Black East St. Louis was established on the border region where people from the South and Northern people converged in one area. Like other large metropolitan areas in the North African American East St Louisans encountered various forms of racism and classism but they were very political active. Also like other large metropolitan cities such as Chicago, Pittsburg and Detroit, they lived a segregated life from their white coworkers and encountered discrimination in public education and employment. Most men were employed in manufacturing occupations in glassmaking, iron founding, railroad yards, freight houses and meat packing. They were barred from the high paying skilled positions in the trade unions and by other employers. African American women were either laundresses or domestics and their children attended segregated schools despite state legislation banning school segregation. However, they used their community interests and politics to garner concessions and patronage from city leaders.

East St. Louis became the service center for vice in the metropolitan region, including prostitution, gambling, and off-hours drinking. Despite nominal cleanup efforts from time to time, this situation prevails today. This became a haven for organized crime which came into the city from Chicago in the 1940s and played a major role in these activities. After Illinois passed legislation enabling its cities to adopt the commission form of government, East St Louis did so in 1919, which only enhanced the possibility of consolidating power in the hands of the politicians for corrupt purposes by eliminating all checks and balances. The commissioners as executives, administrators, and legislators, simply divided the spoils among themselves.28 Every council member was a commissioner responsible for a segment of government – police, fire, finance, streets etc. Each had his own little kingdom, and payoff and kickback opportunities.

East St. Louis kept this system of government until 1975. The city of Springfield kept this form of government until the Voting Rights Suit of 1986 (will be discussed later).

This suit enabled, Frank McNeil and Alan Woodson to be elected the city’s first African American legislatures.

28

The Closing of the Metropolitan Frontier: Cities of the Prairie Revisited.

36

NATIONAL STANDARD ENTERPRISE (1894-1903) The national Standard Enterprise was a weekly (Saturday) Republican paper established in 1886 by In addition to publishing the national Standard Enterprise. G. H. McDaniel, was notable as the publisher of the Missouri Baptist Standard, which at the time was the only Negro publication in Missouri. He was also pastor of the historic Eighth and Center Streets Baptist Church in Hannibal, Missouri.

It is known at which time he moved to Springfield, Illinois. The only information that this writer was able to find on this paper was the following poem written in 1899 for the National Standard.

THE NEGRO VOLUNTEER.

Written for the National Standard-Enterprise, Springfield, Illinois. June 1899.

He volunteered his life and health To go to cruel war— Increasing thus his country's wealth In soldier boys afar— To fight the battles of a land Which does not him protect And, though great danger was at hand, He did not e'en object.

He went, it seemed, to certain death By bullet, sword or scourge, Where dry, hot trade winds blow their breath And rains the land submerge.

He knew well when he left his home— Though home it did not seem,— In Cuba's far off wilds to roam, That death raged there supreme; That Spanish treachery and hate, That fever's dreaded ills, That rain and heat and heavy weight While on the march or drills, Awaited him his fate to seal, His life-blood's wall to break, To laugh in scorn when he should reel 37

And fall, no more to wake.

Though monsters such did him confront And threaten him with death, His bravery they could not daunt, But made him fear the less.

Of such brave hearts as he does own A land might well be proud, Enforce the laws, protect his home, His all, from lawless crowd.

The bird doth soar in lofty space, The fish doth swim the sea, The beast doth field and forest pace, The Negro—where hath he?

The bird at night flies to her nest, The beast's home is his lair, The fish in quiet nook doth rest, The Negro must despair Because, alas, he hath no home, No place to lay his head That he can truly call his own; Nor e'en when he is dead Doth his lone grave remembrance gain, In hearts, save of his kind; Nor is it marked by tomb of fame, Nor wreathed with flower nor vine.

By Corporal Charles Fred White Chaplain of Wesley S. Brass Camp No. 37, United Spanish War Veterans29

29

Plea of the Negro Soldier and a Hundred Other Poems, Charles Frederick White, Easthampton, Mass, Enterprise Printing Company, 1908

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ILLINOIS RECORD (1897-1899) The Illinois Record was established in 1897 by A.V. Broady. It was published by the Illinois Record Publishing Company. The Managing editor was Charles E. Hall and the General Solicitor and Business Manager was James H. Porter.

An advertisement for subscriptions in its December 4, 1897 issue described the paper as this: “The Illinois Record is a weekly colored newspaper published at Springfield, Il. The Illinois Record is a race journal that no member of the race can afford to be without The Illinois Record will contain weekly articles from prominent colored men and women of our state and country on race topics” It listed its contributors as follows: Hon. Theodore W. jones, Chicago Mr. Bernard W. Fitt, Chicago Mr. Daniel Macon, Chicago Rev. Jordan Chavis, Quincy Rev. Jesse S. Woods, Springfield Mr. James H. Harrison, St. Louis Mr. Fred T. Carey, Chicago Mr. Leonard W. Lewis, B.S. Ph. G, Nashville, Tenn.

Mr. Baker Depugh, Upper Alton, Il. Mr. Samuel Elliot, Eldorado, Il. Mr. Charles E. hall, Batavia, Il, and numerous others The paper was head-quartered at 226 ½ South 5th Street. The subscription cost was $1.00 per year. It’s slogan was “Republican Journal Devoted to the Interest of the Negro.” However, unlike most mastheads during this era (1888-1900), this slogan was not part of its masthead.

A.V. Broady died October 5, 1900 in Chicago from consumption at the age of twenty five. In addition to being the founder of the Illinois record he was also the private secretary to U.S. Congressman and former Illinois State Senator David T. Littler.

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One similarity that it did have with other Africa American newspapers were the short editorial such as the following one which discusses the need for white merchants to hire African Americans and advertise in African American newspapers: “RECEPROCITY We should trade at stores where we are employed members of our race and with those who advertise in our Negro papers. The merchant who wants something for nothing is not worthy the patronage of thinking people.”

In its July 23, 1897 issue an editorial entitled, “The Illinois Regiment Volunteers Mustered In” congratulates General John M. Palmer for starting the first all-African American regiment in the state of Illinois.

“THE EIGHT ILLINOIS REGIMENT VOLUNTEERS MUSTERD IN Negro Officers Command Negro Troops. The First in the State of Illinois and the Second in the United States To Genl. John M. Palmer the Gallant defender of Negro Rights, Great Credit is due—Capt. John R. Marshall Appointed Colonel –The Eyes of the World Upon the Regiment—Will History Repeat Itself?

Possibly no event since the new dispensation of freedom to the Negro race has aroused the interest of the American People as has the organization and mustering in of the North Carolina and Illinois Negro regiments with negro officers. The recognition of our people is a healthy sign and portends great good for the future generation who will look back upon the pages of history and read of the happenings of today.

For two hundred and fifty years our people were scorched under the burning sun and whipped with the heavy lash; For two hundred and fifty years the tears and blood of our people poured out in streams and watered the land of our great Southern country causing it to bloom forth as a mighty garden, until God in his Omnipotent power working through the hands of his worthy servant Abraham Lincoln caused the shackles and chains to fall from the limbs of an enslaved people. Then bursting into the political, social and religious arenas of this great and cultured nation came a new people four million strong. Not as a nation but as cattle loosened to roam over an extensive plain. Many of whom who were without shelter to protect themselves from the stormy elements and still worse from the cruel treatment of their fellow men.

The whirligig of time has brought on its own revenges and today we have, after a freedom of thirty five years, the spectacle of Negro officers and Negro troops marching to the front of the defense of the honor of a country and a people who 40

Above: 8th Illinois Infantry with the Illinois National Guard stands in formation. but a short time ago held them in abject slavery and considered them but little removed from brute creation.

In all the wars of the world since the days of Hannibal, the great African general of Carthage, and Scipio Africans an Ethiopian and Roman general, Negros have fought valiantly on fields of battle. In the Revolutionary War when our people fought on land and on sea for the independence of America, and in each subsequent war where the vital interests of the American people have been at issue, the brother in black has defended the flag, under whose stars and stripes he may die one day. The same loyalty which threatened the actions of many Negros who aided Perry to gain the victory at lake Erie. The same coolness and bravery that was demonstrated by the troops in the late rebellion and subsequent Indian Wars, will enter into the hearts of our Negro troops of today and history will again repeat itself.

Here in this great state of Illinois we have a regiment of colored men, commanded by officers of their own nationality and we have one common purpose with men in whose hearts dwell a …and in whose veins course the same blood.

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It is the credit of our republican form of government and to the State of Illinois the home of our great and marvelous emancipator that we have a regiment the second in the history of the United States to be officered by colored men. …It is also reported by men who are in a position to know, that it was Genl.

John M. Palmer who showed Governor tanner the wisdom of appointing colored officers and a history of the Negros of Illinois would be incomplete if it failed to show the efforts of Hon. John M. palmer from time to time since the days of slavery on behalf of our people.

Upon the officers and men of the eighth regiment are the eyes of the nation and the civilized world. The experiment will set at rost the discussion whether Negro troops will fight as well under their own officers , as under white ones, and while it is to be regretted that men were brought in from other states it is the hope that harmony will prevail and that the pages of history will record faithfully the deeds of the eight regiment of Illinois volunteers. The officers appointed by Governor tanner are as follows: Colonel, John R. Marshall Lieutenant Colonel, James H. Johnson Major, Robert R. Jackson Major, Franklin A. Dennison Adjutant, Harvey A. Thompson Quartermaster, James S. Nelson” Company’s A,B,C,D and F were based in Chicago, company G in Bloomington, Illinois, Company H in Springfield, Illinois, Company I in Quincy, Illinois, Company K in Litchfield, Illinois, Company L in Mound City, Illinois and Company M in Cairo, Illinois.

The officers in Company H at Springfield were, Captain Dariel Hodge and First Lieutenant Richard C. Ross both of Springfield, Illinois and Walter J. Jackson from Chicago.

The Eighth Regiment was soon given the opportunity to prove itself to their critics who were blasting African American regiments claiming that they were a derogation of the good record of the regular white soldiers. On August 17, 1898, white immunes were ordered out of Santiago, Cuba and the Eighth Regiment was placed in charge to police the camp. During the Spanish American War, which lasted approximately three and a half months, the all-white Second Regiment was placed in Santiago de Cuba as a garrison to preserve order and protect property. Instead, members of the Second Regiment were firing arms inside the town without orders. Some were drunk and disorderly. The residents of the town said that they were being intimidated and their property was being taken by force. Due to growing uneasiness from the townspeople, General Shafter order in the Eight Regiment and ordered the Second Regiment to camp into the hills were their discipline could be maintained.

However, this story was not reported favorably and in completeness by the mainstream white newspapers. An article in the Washington D.C. Colored American stated,

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“The Star of this city published the following dispatch in its issue of the 16 th inst.

The Washington Post next morning published the same dispatch, omitting the last paragraph; and yet the Post claims to publish the news, whether pleasing or otherwise. The selection of the 8th Illinois colored regiment for this important duty, to replace a disorderly white regiment, is a sufficient refutation of a recent editorial in the Post, discrediting colored troops with colored officers. The Eight Illinois is a colored regiment from Colonel down. The Generals at the front know the value of Negro troops, whether the quill-driers in the rear do or not.”

In addition to being a Civil War General (1861-1866), Governor of Illinois (1869-1873) and U.S. Senator (1890-1894) from Illinois, General Palmer was an abolitionist and supporter of the rights of African Americans. Palmer was a very close friend of Abraham Lincoln who when President of the United States consistently refused to accept Palmer’s request to resign from the Army. In 1865 Palmer made another request to resign and instead Lincoln reassigned him to control of all the Federal forces in Kentucky. In this capacity Palmer achieved control by waging war against guerillas and the secondly by ending slavery in a state not constrained by the Emancipation Proclamation. Palmer stated that Lincoln told him: “Go to Kentucky, keep your temper, do as you please, and I will sustain you.”

Being an abolitionist, Palmer was not a supporter of slavery and believed, “that all that was left of slavery in Kentucky was its mischiefs” and he was, “determined to drive the last nail in the coffin of the institution even if it cost me the command of the department.” In a letter to his wife in 1865, Palmer wrote, If I had been asked five or ten years ago what honor I would ask as the highest which could be conferred upon me I would have said let me destroy slavery in Kentucky. Taking Lincoln’s advice to do as he pleased, Palmer actively enlisted at an unprecedented rate all able bodied Black men in most cases with the assistance of all Black recruiting squads. He maintained martial law as a way to overcome the state’s legislature, civil courts and governments. Palmer released slaves from workhouses and jails, legitimated slave marriages, stopped local governments from expelling fugitive slaves and freemen, established refugee camps and issued thousands of travel passes so that African Americans in search of employment could travel freely within and outside the state. My countrymen, you are free, and while I command this department the military forces of the United States will defend your right to freedom,” Palmer told a crowd of African Americans at a Fourth of July celebration. Palmer was later indicted by a Louisville grand jury and for aiding fugitive slaves. “Slavery is dead in Kentucky,” he told his wife in 1865, “and my mission is accomplished.”

Palmer died in Springfield in 1900 three years after persuading Governor Tanner of Illinois to mobilize the Eighth Regiment Volunteers. ********* In the November27, 1897 issue of the The Record the following article was featured written by The Record contributor’s initials at the end of the article were unreadable:

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THE EVILS OF LYNCHINGS An Interesting Letter from Cairo _________________________ Our Correspondent from Cairo Does Full justice to this Important Subject ________________ Believing it to be the first duty of those interested in the success of the race to fight the unjust accusations. I think nothing is doing the Negro race more harm today than being held up before the world as a natural born ravisher. Now, Cairo affords an excellent site from which to observe the truth of the charges.

Colored people from every clime are pouring into Cairo, with all kinds of reasons for leaving the south. Of course, there is much exaggeration but sufficient facts are obtained from which to base a fair conclusion. After a careful diagnosis of the reports any fair minded man will readily conceive that the object desired is not to stamp out the crime so much as it is to prejudice against us, white men and women who are contributing their pen and purse in our behalf; and I am sorry to say what is true, an inspection of the reports and actions of the Boards of Domestic Mission work among our mainly white churches will show an astonishing falling off of amounts contributed for the advancement of the Negro race. Ask yourself what is the cause of this. It cannot be that our white friends are becoming un-Christian like, or that there is less money among the white Christians than heretofore, or that had Mr. Pullman died twenty five years ago possessing the wealth that he did a few days ago, that he would not have left a handsome dowry for some purpose among the Negro race. Our leaders arte constantly complaining of the growing effect of prejudice while I think that they should look for and try to remedy the cause.

Now let us suppose that the frequent lynching for rape is the cause of much of it.

Let us take up that question on its merits admitting that there is such a crime.

It is something that has been perpetuated for ages, as Shakespeare tells of the “Rape of Lucrede,” and in every important war soldiers resorted to this crime, and it is one of the difficulties attending the war in Cuba today. But in this country there is no possible excuse for entertainment of the crime.

It has generally been conceded that rape consists of taking an improper and unlawful advantage of an unprotected female, and it will be admitted that there are at least two ways to take advantage . One is by brute force another is by physical force and intellectual superiority and from a moral standpoint the exercise of either of these advantages is a crime and not excusable and the individual is as much wronged by one as by the other. I deem it as much of a crime for an intelligent white man to use this advantage and seduce a “burly nigger” woman as it is for a “burly nigger” man to use his advantage and rape an intelligent white woman, but let us see how the cases will stand between the two classes of criminals. Judging that our white newspapers mean an illiterate uncultured Negro when they say “burly nigger.” We will suppose that the white 44

men are learned, refined men of high rank and in society. Men who have had years of schooling and Christian training, whom, it seems that God has destined to be the Samaritan for millions of unfortunates.

Let us compare the effect of the crime. It is claimed that in the negro it is lust which actuates him and that he aims to put himself in relations with those whom he knows to be his superiors in refinement and beauty, and to a certain extent does that which seems natural to some extent as most men look upward in their female choice whether their intentions be good or evil.

There is no deception in the Negro ravisher. He is not reported as having attempted to make love to his victims or as taken any advantage of her spectestary condition…That white men are born with, but the Negro has one excuse – that he is “burly” or his illiteracy makes him animal-like. Therefore educate the negro and give him a social standing and you lift him above these crimes.

It must be remembered that colored men are often the victims of circumstances over which they had no control. As for instance not many weeks ago two colored men were walking from Paducah, Ky. To Cairo, Il. and on their way they met a white girl. The meeting was very unexpected to each of them and the colored men saw that the girl showed signs of fright; but what was to be done?

They say they were afraid to speak to her, and knew that if they attempted to step out of the road that she would be afraid to attempt to pass, a white man came up in the direction they were going and the girl then ventured to pass.

Now these men feel that if this girl had so desired , she could easily enough could cause them to be lynched. This may seem strange yet it is true that in many communities in the south white men tell their families exaggerated tells about the brutal crimes perpetuated by “niggers” until their little ones are afraid to go outdoors at night.

Now let me call your attention to the other class of ravishers. As I said before, they are generally educated. Now, if there is anything that the Americans ought to be ashamed of it is the seemingly set intentions to wipe out the Negro race by injecting white blood into it. The presence of a mulatto was as full evidence before the war, and is now, of rape having been committed as could be desired, and to the shame of the Anglo-Saxons of America. I say these crimes are as frequent today as they ever were, and are doing the Negro more injury, than heretofore, for in former days these ravishers had at least to furnish some kind of food and shelter for the consequences of their crime but today thousands of orphans are suffering in this country and are afraid to ask their father for a penny even if they knew him when they met him on the street. Many an honest colored man is daily sacrificing his life by hard labor, furnishing bread and shelter for the off spring of some white gentleman who is perhaps at the very moment in pursuit of the colored man’s son who is accused of rape simply because he accidently meets a white woman in a lonesome part of the road. Of

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course, this is considered to delicate a question to mention, but our people must know the facts.

Our young girls are , from want and necessity, forced to enter the various employments of white men and their families, and many of them are in that period of life when they need the momentary care of a mother, and these white men being aware of the condition occupied by them in that period use their educational advantages and wreck their young lives. And yet our white newspapers say not a word, but they have the audacity to say that Douglas and others owed their positions in life to the fact that they had white blood in their veins , as a consequence of some virtuous woman ruined.

Well might some shudder for the future of this country; well might Senator Edwards prophesy for pandemonium to reign in the south.

It must not be construed that I intended to advocate this fiendish crime, but I think it is right to call the attention of the world to the terrible amount of rape being performed upon the colored woman of America daily. I wish to have the world know and see and realize the crime attached to an intelligent, educated white man associating with some of the purest white girls in their community, representing some of the largest business concerns, and I know of an instance in our city where the gentleman is an officer of one of the leading white churches.

Now if our American philosophers expect to make this the grandest country on earth it must be placed on a more equitable plane of justice than at present for if history repeats itself and “God will visit the sins of the father upon the third and fourth generations,” there are certainly many difficulties of a perplexing nature for the coming generations… ******* Lynching was a horrific act of vigilante or mob violence and terrorism perpetrated primarily against African Americans. The most common form of lynching was hanging but burning at the stake was also used to maintain power over the powerless. The majority of lynching occurred in the South. They were the direct result of the outcome of the Civil War and the gaining of suffrage by African Americans. After Reconstruction Southern white Democrats regained their political power and states passed new constitutions disentrancing both blacks and poor whites. These laws segregated the African American population establishing separate and unequal societies. Lynching had become very prominent during the last part of the 19th Century and early part of the twentieth century. By the 1930’s, lynching had become very common. They garnered the attention of many individuals who protested these acts of terror as un-American and inhumane. One of these individuals was a white Jewish poet named Abel Meeropol.

Meeropol was a high school teacher from the Bronx who published under the pen name Lewis Alan, after two still born sons. In 1937, he published a poem entitled, Bitter Fruit in The New York Teacher magazine, which was a protest poem against lynching.

Meeropol recorded the poem to music under the name Strange Fruit. The song was introduced to Billie Holiday by Barney Josephson the founder of Café Society in 46

Greenwich Village. Café Society was New York’s first integrated night club. Billie Holiday recorded Strange Fruit in 1939 and it became an immediate success selling millions of records. The song exposed the horrors of American racism: "Strange Fruit" Southern trees bear a strange fruit Blood on the leaves and blood at the root Black bodies swingin' in the Southern breeze Strange fruit hangin' from the poplar trees Pastoral scene of the gallant South The bulgin' eyes and the twisted mouth Scent of magnolias sweet and fresh Then the sudden smell of burnin' flesh Here is a fruit for the crows to pluck For the rain to gather, for the wind to suck For the sun to rot, for the tree to drop Here is a strange and bitter crop30 In 1999, Strange Fruit was named “Song of the Century” by Time magazine. Most lynching occurred between 1882 and 1920. Between 1882 and 1968, approximately 3,500 African Americans and 1,300 whites were lynched in the United States. 31 ************ In the following July 1898 editorial The Record about Booker T. Washington’s advice to President McKinney that African Americans should not enter politics.

“BOOKER T. WASHINGTON Prof. Booker T. Washington in a recent address delivered in Pittsburgh remarked in speaking of the Negro, “We had came here savages, and were now clothed with citizenship; we were heathens and were taught the Christian religion; we had no language and were introduced to Anglo-Saxon idiom, and in that and other ways slavery had been a blessing in disguise to the Negro.”

White the RECORD pays tribute to the grand work being done in the industrial field by Professor Washington, and while we look upon him as a leader in his line of work, we deplore the conciliatory tones that are characteristic in his every action and his every speech before the public. In his zeal to obtain finance from people who under no circumstances would contribute, the Professor overlooks that the Negro has long since paid every debt of gratitude if one ever existed. If all of these advantages were gained by the Negro under the 30 31

Meeropol, Abel, Strange Fruit, International Journal of Epidemiology, (12 July 2006) Lynching, Wikipedia, www.wikipedia.org/wiki/lynching

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institution of slavery, we ask, “What did the Anglo-Saxon gain? This same spirit obtains in Professor Washington’s advice to President McKinney when he suggests that the Negroes of the South should not receive any further political recognition.”

Based on research, it is beloved that Washington’s advice to President McKinney is a response to the Wilmington Race riot of 1898. During his second visit to the White House. Washington asked McKinney to visit the Tuskegee Institute. McKinney visited Tuskegee Institute in the winter of 1898 where he saw firsthand how Washington’s philosophy of work and racial harmony avoided violence between the races that was seen in the Wilmington Race Riot of 1998. This was also called the Wilmington Insurrection of 1898. In reality it was not just a race riot or insurrection but the only coup d’ tat of a legitimately elected government to ever occur on U.S. soil.

The actual riot stated on November 10, 1898, however the events that led up to the riot started two days before with the election of a white “Fusionist” mayor and a bi-racial city council. At this time Wilmington had a majority African American population. A Democratic party white supremacists named Alfred Moore Waddell had organized a secret committee of nine and promised to replace the government if the Democrats had lost the election. It was a very fiery and contemptuous election and the whites had criticized Wilmington’s Daily Record and its editor Alexander manly. The Daily Record was the state’s only African American owned newspaper and the white supremacists wanted to shut it down due in part because the Raleigh News and Observer and its editor Josephus Daniels used Wilmington as a symbol of “Negro Dominance” siting its biracial government. He also published stories of African American men attacking white women. Manly consistently denied such allegations in his newspaper claiming that such intern racial relations were consensual and suggested “white men should be more protective of their women against sexual advances from males of all race.” These words were published by the white supremacists to incite violence against the African American community.

The whites organized a Committee of after the election consisting of all supremacists and presented a demand to the Committee of Colored Citizens (“CCC”), group of African American politicians, businessmen and community leaders to evict Manly from the city.

The CCC had a deadline of November 10, 1898 to respond. No response was made by 7;30 am. Waddell and the Committee were angered and gathered at the Wilmington Light Infantry (“WLI”) Amory with a crowd of 1,000 to 1, 500. The group marched in military formation to the Daily Record office destroyed printing equipment and burned the building to the ground.

Manly and many other African Americans had already left the city seeking safe haven elsewhere. Hundred had fled to the nearby swamps. In the meantime, Waddell tried to get the men who had by this time swelled to more than 2,000 to return the Amory but he had lost control of them. They turned into an angry mob dispersed into groups and attacked African Americans throughout Wilmington. They especially turned their anger on Brooklyn, a majority African American neighborhood.

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Walker Taylor one of the Secret Nine white supremacists was commissioned by Governor Russell to command the WLI and stop the rioting. The WLI troops were recently returned from the Spanish American War and they intimidated both whites and blacks shooting off rapid fire weapons and in the process several African American men died. The remaining opposition was run out of town by the white supremacists. In its aftermath over two thousand African Americans fled the city of Wilmington leaving the city a white majority city.

By 4:00 pm that day, after Republican Mayor Silas P. Wright and the rest of the duly elected government officials were run out of Wilmington Waddell and his mob installed a new government and electing him mayor.

Afterwards, the residents made an appeal to President McKinney to help them recover from the widespread destruction of Brooklyn. However, this appeal was met with no response. In 1899 after Waddell’s coup the state legislature passed its first Jim Crow laws requiring voters to pay poll taxes and pass literacy tests as prerequisites to vote both of which disenfranchised African American voters.

Inspire of this massacre and its total disregard for the democratic process, Washington’s advice to McKinney suggesting that African Americans stay out of the political arena in spite of their loss of life and property were the Doctrine of Accommodation that were part of his psyche.

On September 18, 1895, Washington delivered a speech at the Atlanta Cotton States and International Exposition. This speech was later described by W.E. B. Dubois as the Atlanta Compromise because Washington called for patience, accommodation and selfhelp while playing down political rights and increased higher educational learning in favor of vocational education as the best way for African Americans to advance.

In the speech Washington stated, “in all things that are purely social we can be as separate as the fingers, yet one as the hand in all things essential to mutual progress.”

Washington believed that African Americans should accommodate themselves to racial prejudice and concentrate on economic self-improvement. He went on to opinion that African Americans were ill prepared for the political offices that were gained during Reconstruction and the failures of these politicians were due to their own ineptness not to the white political power structure which ousted them through political sabotage, intimidation and outright refusal to African Americans into elected office even after being duly elected, stating:32 “Ignorant and inexperienced, it is not strange that in the first years of our new life we began at the top instead of at the bottom; that a seat in Congress o the State legislature was more sought than real estate or industrial skill; that the political

32

Booker T. Washington the Politics of Accommodation.

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convention or stomp speaking had more attractions than starting a dairy farm or truck garden. …I all things that are purely social we can be as separate as the fingers, yet one as the hand in all things essential to mutual progress.”

The Southern whites many Northern whites as well saw Washington’s speech as the right way towards solving the nation’s race problems. For example, after the Atlanta Compromise Speech, Washington sent a copy of the speech to then President Grover Cleveland who responded with the following correspondence: GRAY GABLES, BUZZARD BAY, MASS. October 6, 1895 BOOKRT T. WASHINGTON ESQ.: MY DEAR SIR: I thank you for sending me a copy of your address delivered at the Atlanta Exposition.

I thank you with much enthusiasm for making the address. I have read it with intense interest, and I think the Exposition would be fully justified if it did not do more than furnish the opportunity for its delivery. Your words cannot fail to delight and encourage all who wish well for your race; and if our colored fellow citizens do not from your utterances gather new hop and form new determinations to gain every valuable advantage offered them by their citizenship, it will be strange indeed.

Yours Very Truly, GROVER CLEVELAND33 President McKinney was elected in 1896, a year after the deliverance of the Atlanta Compromise.

Later in his autobiography Up from Slavery, Washington stated, “I believe it the duty of the Negro-as the greater part of the race is already doing – to depart him modestly in the regard to political claims, depending upon the slow but sure influences that proceed from the possession of property, intelligence and his character for the full recognition of his political rights. I think that the according of the full recognition of political rights is going to be a matter of natural, slow growth, not overnight, gourd-vine affair. I do not believe that the Negro should cease voting, for a man cannot learn the exercise of selfgovernment by ceasing to vote any more than a boy can learn to swim by keeping out of the water, but I do believe that in his voting he should more and more be influenced by those of intelligence and character who are his next door neighbors.”34

33 34

Booker T. Washington, Up From Slavery, Double Day & Co., 1901, Chapter XIV Ibid

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Two years after the publication of Up From Slavery, W.E. B. DuBois published a collection of his essays entitled Souls of Black Folk in which he offered the most influential public critique of what I refer to as Washington’s Doctrine of Accommodation. DuBois was the first African American to receive a PhD. from Harvard and one of the founding members of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. In the excerpts below from the essay entitled, Of Mr. Booker T. Washington and Others, Du Bois rejected Washington’s racial submissiveness and advocated instead for political power, insistence on civil rights and increased access to higher education for African American youth.

“To gain the sympathy and cooperation of the various elements comprising the white South was Mr. Washington’s first task; and this, at the time Tuskegee was founded, seemed, for a Black man, well-nigh impossible. And yet ten years later it was done in the word spoken at Atlanta: “in all things that are purely social we can be as separate as the fingers, yet one as the hand in all things essential to mutual progress.” This “Atlanta Compromise” is by all odds the most notable thing in Mr. Washington’s career. The South interpreted it in different ways: the radicals received it as a complete surrender of the demand for civil and political equality; the conservatives. As a generously conceived working basis for mutual understanding. So both approved it and today its author is certainly the most distinguished Southerner since Jefferson Davis, and the one with the largest personal following.” “…Today he stands as the one recognized spokesman of his ten million fellows, and one of the most notable figures in a nation of seventy millions. One hesitates, therefore, to criticize a life which, beginning with so little has done so much. And yet the time is come when one may speak in all sincerity and utter courtesy of the mistakes and shortcomings of Mr. Washington ‘s career, as well as his triumphs, without being thought captious or envious, and without forgetting that it is easier to do ill than well in the world.

Among his people, however, Mr. Washington has encountered the strongest and most lasting opposition, amounting at times to bitterness, and even today continuing strong and insistent even though largely silenced in outward expression by public opinion of the nation. Some of this opposition is, of coarse, mere envy; the disappointment of the displaced demagogues and the spite of narrow minds. But aside from this, there is among educated and thoughtful colored men in all parts of the land a feeling of deep regret, sorrow, and apprehension at the wide currency and ascendency which some of Mr. Washington’s theories have gained. …it has been claimed that the Negro can survive only through submission. Mr. Washington distinctly asks that black people give up, at least for the present three things, First, political power Second, insistence on civil rights, 51

Third, higher education of Negro youth, And concentrate all of their energies on industrial education, the accumulation of wealth, and the conciliation of the South. This policy has been courageously and insistently advocated for over fifteen years, and has been triumphant for perhaps ten years. As a result of this tender of the palm-branch, what has been the return? In these years there have occurred: 1. The disenfranchisement of the Negro.

2. The legal creation of a distinct status of civil inferiority for the Negro.

3. The steady withdrawal of aid from institutions for the higher training of the Negro. …The black men of American have a duty to perform, a duty stern and delicate, -- a forward movement to oppose a part of the work of their greatest leader. So far as Mr. Washington preaches Thrift, Patience, and Industrial Training for the masses, we must hold up his hand and strive with him, rejoicing in his honors and glorifying in the strength of this Joshua called of God and of man to lead the headless host. But so far as Mr. Washington apologizes for injustice, North or South, does not rightly value the privilege and duty of voting, belittles the emasculating effects of caste distinctions , and opposes the higher training and ambition of our brightest minds, sop far as he, the South, or the Nation, does this, we must unceasingly and firmly oppose them. By every civilized and peaceful method we must strive for the rights which the world accord s to men, clinging unwaveringly those great words which the sons of the fathers would fain forget: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” 35 After Washington’s death, criticisms similar to Dr. Dubois’ and the Illinois Record appeared throughout the country. For example, death a commentary in the Nation criticized Washington for failing to demand full civil and political equality for African Americans. “He failed to speak out on the things which intellectual men of the race deemed a far greater moment than brick and mortar, industrial education, or business leagues – the matter of their social and political liberties.”

However, what was learned after his death is that Washington secretly assisted in the finance of court cases that sought to further the civil liberties of African Americans. It was also recognized after this death that in spite of his public preaching against political empowerment for the African American masses he was in fact a shrewd political manipulator. He was a true boss of bosses. Wikipedia defines a “political boss as, “a person who wields the power over a particular political region or constituency. Bosses may dictate voting patterns, control appointments, and wield considerable influence in other political processes. They do not necessary hold public office themselves. In fact, 35

W.E. Burghardt DuBois, The Souls of Black Folk (Chicago, 1903)

52

most historical bosses did not, at least during the times of their greatest influence.

Bosses were a major part of the political landscape during the 19 th and early 20th centuries in the United States.”36 “With the backing of white benefactors and officials, he was the topmost supervisor of black politics and advancement. The school he managed, Tuskegee Institute, was one of the wealthiest seats of learning in the South, and a network of graduates, employees, and operatives (“Bookerites”) spread across the nation as the Tuskegee machine, an affiliation mighty enough to control hiring, suppress opposition, and funnel monies accordingly. As W.E. B. Dubois put it …”Not only did presidents of the United States consult Booker T. Washington, but governors and congressmen; philanthropists conferred with him, scholars wrote to him…After a time almost no Negro institution could collect funds without the recommendation or acquiescence of Mr. Washington.

Few political appointments of Negros were made anywhere in the United States without his consent.”

Washington’s leaves a dual legacy among his friends, foes, colleagues and criticizers.

First, He had a totally lack of ancestral knowledge, which was probably due more to the era in which he lived given the unavailability of the Africans true history. His ancestral foundation was that he and his people were bred from “heathens” and were “savages” themselves. His ability to succeed in spite of his personal historical self-image was a massive achievement in itself. This belittled image of self probably contributed to his overall belief in the social superiority of his oppressors. His do as I say not as I do message to the masses about obtaining from politics was masterful. In spite of preaching about the ills of political involvement he was shrewd political strategist who knew how to stroke both presidents and paupers.

36

Booker T. Washington, ww.wikipedia.com 53

SPRINGFIELD LEADER (1905-?)

Left: Image Ownership: Public Domain The Springfield Leader was a weekly Independent established by William Thomas Scott also known as W.T. Scott in 1905.

Born a free man in Newark, Ohio on April 28, 1839, Scott was the first African American selected by a national political party as a candidate for president of the Unite States.

Before the Civil War Scott was a barber on the riverboats on the Ohio River. He later was a successful business man and throughout his life was a tavern/hotel owner, newspaper owner /editor and politician. He did not enter politics until the end of the 19th century and within the first decade of the 20th century. In 1861 he married Nellie (died ca.1871-last name unknown) in Cincinnati. In 1863 he enlisted and served 18 months in the Union Navy . Sources are mixed as to the ship he sailed on.

Some sources state that it was on the USS Clara Dolsen while others state that it was on the USS Victoria both of which were based at Cairo, Illinois. He later remarried Lizzineky Jenkins in Cairo in 1872.

Scott relocated to Cairo, Illinois where he lived from 1863 to 1901. Prior to becoming a Democrat, Scott was a leader within local Republican political circles between 1870 and 1883. By the time Scott declared himself a Democrat in 1883, he was considered the wealthiest African-American in southern Illinois. By the 1890s, he shifted his focus to the state and national politics where he obtained significant success. In 1890, he became president of the National Negro Democratic League (1888-- ) and the Negro Bureau within the National Democratic Party where he served until 1915.

He formed three newspapers the first being the Cairo Weekly Gazette (1882- ca.1889) The Daily Gazette in 1883, which was the first black daily in the Midwest and claimed to be the first in the nation. In 1901 he moved to East St. Louis, Illinois where he was the owner/editor of the East St. Louis Leader. It is not known how long this paper lasted.

He was editorial manager for the Chicago Gazette in 1893. What is known is that in 1905 he moved to Springfield, Illinois where he was the owner/editor of the Springfield Leader. It is not known how long this publication lasted.37

37

Negro Year Book, 1918-1919, Monroe N. Work, ED., Tuskegee Institute, 1919, p.427

54

Scott believed that African Americans should receive government and patronage appointments in direct proportions to the number of votes cast in elections. He was not able to obtain political office himself because of his business interests in liquor, gambling and vice.

At a time when all African American voters where Republican, Scott identified himself as an Independent or “Negrowump.” A “Negrowump” placed his race above party. The term became popular by T. Thomas Fortune an African American many considered to be an agitator. In his address in Oswego, New York on August 6, 1886 at the twenty third anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation he took the opportunity to push his “race first” philosophy. In Frederick Douglas territory Fortune called on his race to stand up, demand their right and stop being a slave to either political party. He stated, “you are simply a political cipher in the South and a voting machine in the North; and your Douglasses…and the rest have no more influence on the policies of the country nor the policies of the parties than so many Aunt Dinahs. Fortune called on the African Americans to act behind his motto of ‘Race first; then party and to declare themselves “Negrowumps”.

Like Fortune, Scott he focused his efforts within party politics at the local and state levels. Scott was the founder and president of the National Negro Anti-Expansion, Anti-Imperialist, Anti-Trust and Anti-Lynch League (1899-- ). By this time he was known nationally as a gifted speaker and superb organizer as well as a person of immense wealth. He was a leader in the National Negro Liberty Party which was active at the state and national levels between 1904 and 1910. The party supported government pensions for ex-slaves and liberal suffrage laws. On July 7, 1904, at Douglas Hall in St. Louis, Missouri, the National Liberty Party elected Scott of Illinois and W.C. Payne of Virginia for President and Vice President, respectively. Mr. Payne, the Vice Presidential candidate is known in his state as a Republican. He served on board the Dixie in the Spanish American War.38 Scott’s name was later removed from the party’s ticket because he had operated a “disorderly house.” In July 1908, Scott traveled to Denver as part of his promise to deliver 200,000 “colored” votes to Bryan. He was not without his critics. An Cairo Daily Gazette editorial about his Denver trip stated, ”Bill” Scott is always on hand at a Democratic gathering. Only eight years ago he was the head of the Afro-American Anti-Imperialistic League, which was going to deliver the colored vote to Bryan. He is strong on “delivery,” that is at conventions, but when election comes round “Bill” is nowhere to be seen. At present he is running a newspaper at Springfield.” “Bill” Scott is Right on the Ground, Cairo Daily Gazette, July 30, 1908. Scott was known as a “secret society man.” A writer interested in Scott during this period of his life during this time stated, “It is probable that no man of the race is a member of so many societies as Colonel Scott. He is a member of all the prominent organizations and their auxiliaries. He is in possession of three hundred grips and four hundred passwords, which is more than any other man has in this country.” (Work, 1919).William Thomas Scott died on January 23, 1917, in Springfield, Illinois.

38

National Liberty Party Names Scott and Payne, St. Louis Republic, July 8, 1904.

55

ILLINOIS CONSERVATOR –GLOBE (1905-1950) The Illinois Conservator was established in 1905 by Elmer Lee Rogers. It slogan on its masthead stated that the newspaper was the “Leading Colored Downstate Paper.”

E.L. Rogers was the Editor and his wife Mrs. Jessie M. Rogers was the City Editor and Advertising Solicitor. The paper was headquartered at 725 ½ East Washington in Springfield, Illinois. The paper cost $2.00 per year.

E. L. Rogers died Sept. 17, 1957 at the age of 73 after editing the paper for more than 50 years. His obituary described him as a “civic leader …actively interested in his people” SJ-R, September 18, 1957. He was a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Knights of Pythias and Grace Methodist Church.

56

THE FORUM (1904-1927) Left: E.L. Rogers, Forum publisher and editor The Forum was the second newspaper started by Elmer Lee Rogers. The first one was the Illinois Conservator. The Forum’s staff was as follows: E.L. Rogers – Editor and manager William H. Harbour – Associate Editor Ms. Daisy Donaldson – Proof reader Ms. Blanche Hoagland – Bloomington Agent and Correspondent.

The paper was headquartered at 305 ½ South 6th Street, Springfield, Illinois. The cost was $1.50 per year.

The slogan on its masthead stated, “Be ye doers and not sayers only.” The Forum was very active in the African American community and was very active in local politics. Its subscriptions were large and it boasted itself as, “the Leading Colored Paper in the City…Has the Largest and Best Circulation. Goes among influential people.”

In 1907, a year before the 1908 Race Riots, E.L. Rogers called for a boycott of white businesses that refused to serve African American patrons. At the time Rogers was just in his mid-twenties. After the 1908 Race Riots, he chided white newspapers in particular the Illinois State Journal for encouraging violence through incendiary reporting calling it “ insidious.” He lambasted the white dailies for not reprimanding Mabel Hallam when it was revealed after the riots that she lied about being assaulted by George Richardson, an African American.

After the riots, Rogers told the African American community, “Do not be running away but cast down your buckets where they are,” read one Forum column in the Sept. 5, 1908, issue, the first that appeared after the riot. “There is no haven — no Eldorado in these other places. Let us try to rehabilitate Springfield.” (Sherman, 2008) In another column entitled, “SPRINGFIELD RIOTS,” Governor Deneen is praised for his decisive action to quell the violence and the city is reminded of the fiscal consequences of the riot to the citizenry: 57

SPRINGFIELD RIOTS ________ After Two Weeks of Excitement the City is Awakening With a Headache ________ IT WILL NOT SOON BE CURED _______ Claims Against the City for Loss of Life and Property ________ Having had two weeks of excitement caused by the rioting and attacks upon the colored people and their homes the city of Springfield is awakening with a headache. It will be lasting and there will be constant reminders that it is present. These reminders will be tax bills to meet claims against the city for loss of life, damage to property, investigation by the grand jury and the maintenance of the national guard, 3,500 of which were on duty in the city for a short time. Already claims have been presented against the city for $25,478.81. It is estimated that there will be other claims that will bring the aggregated cost to $100,000, [$2,520, in 2011 dollars] for loss of property and life only. The deaths as a result of the riot or its consequences are eight and the injured are eighty one.

Under the riot law, relatives may collect $5,000 from the city for each life lost., upon showing that death was caused by the riot.

Guard Mobilizes Quickly Never in the history of the state was the National Guard assembled more effectively than when it was called to Springfield. The story of its summoning is a story of decisiveness, an illustration of industry and an evidence of the effectiveness with which Governor Deneen acts.

At 4 0’clock Friday afternoon, Am 14, Colonel R.J. Shand, assistant adjutant general was sent by Governor Deneen to Sheriff Charles Werner to inquire into the situation, rumors of anticipated trouble having reached the chief executive. Sheriff Werner stated that he did not expect any difficulty in handling the crowd, but in case of emergency it might be advisable to assemble one of the local companies at the arsenal. Later he changed this request to two local companies and the Gatling section with the suggestion that one company be sent to the county jail at 8 0’clock.

Take Prisoners to Bloomington

58

Later in the afternoon the colored men whom the mob were desirous of securing were transferred to Bloomington. This transfer did not prevent a crowd from gathering around the jail. Finding the place well-guarded and having satisfied themselves that the prisoners were not in the jail through a committee which was permitted to go through the building, the mob directed its attention to the restaurant of harry Loper, situated five blocks from the jail. Sheriff Werner asked that the Gatling section be sent to the restaurant. The men went without bayonets and with orders from the Sheriff not to fire.

Sheriff Asks For More Troops The crowd had grown to such proportions at 9 0’clock and were such a threatening aspect that the Sheriff asked for more troops. The second company of Springfield soldiers was sent to the county jail. Owing to the short time they had to assemble there were not more than a dozen infantry men in Company C. These were placed on guard east of the jail with orders to prevent the mob from getting at a pile of bricks. Under the command of Lieutenant Ward Murray they were compelled to submit to insults, to dodge bricks and stand guard at the risk of their lives without retaliating in any way upon the crowd which hemmed them in, Sheriff Werner having given orders that under no circumstances should they be permitted to fire.

Governor Up All Night Governor Deneen was in the executive offices all night transmitting orders by ‌.commanders for the purpose of assembling the troops. At 9 o’clock the first order for troops outside the city went to Decatur. A few minutes later Bloomington, Peoria, Pekin, Taylorville and Pontiac companies were called, the company commanders being ordered to secure special trains or interurban cars that they might reach Springfield in the very shortest time. At 11:00 the destructiveness of the mob manifested itself in the looting of buildings on Washington street and the burning of houses in the colored quarter. Sheriff Werner refused to let the troops leave the county jail to attempt to disperse the mob or to do anything that might end the destruction of property. His argument against it was that the jail must be protected.

Decatur First To Arrive At midnight it was decided to call the First Infantry from Chicago and the entire Fifth Infantry with several troops of cavalry. Company H from Decatur was the first outside company to arrive. It reached the city by the way of the interurban at 2:20 Saturday morning. Accompanied by Troop D, First Cavalry, of Springfield, the Decatur company was marched to the scene of the burning and rioting. Sheriff Werner commanded the mob to disperse and as it failed to do so ordered the 59

Springfield troop to fire over their heads. Colonel Shand protested as one of the company’s previously had been commanded to shoot in the air in front of the county jail. The mob paid no attention either time. Colonel Shand then insisted that the troops should have permission to fire low.

But again Sheriff Werner, after ordering the mob to disperse, gave the command to the Springfield boys that they should shoot over the heads of the mob. A dozen men heard the command of Captain Walz and Colonel Shand to fire low and poured a volley of small bullets into the legs of the mob. There was a hurried scattering and the mob melted away.

The streets were filled with drunken and reeling men and boys who, fired by the lust for blood and excited by the burning buildings, were anxious to drive all colored people from the city. Threats were made that all buildings occupied by colored people would be burned the following night or the colored people driven out.

Summons More Companies In anticipation of more rioting it was decided to bring enough troops to Springfield to patrol the city thoroughly and protect the colored citizens.

As there are five sections of the city in which colored people live. It necessitated a large number of troops to make a complete patrol. The speed with which the respective companies and regiments were mobilized by their commanders is shown by the following table of the various organizations: Company H, Decatur, 2:20 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company A, Pekin, 3:00 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company G, Peoria,3:00 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company I, Peoria, 3:00 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Troop G, First Calvary, Peoria, 3:00 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company D, Bloomington, #:05 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company F, Pontiac, 3:05 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Troop B, First Calvary, Bloomington, 3:05 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company I, Danville, 5:57 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company F, Quincy, 6:10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company B, Taylorville, 6:28 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company M, Champaign, 7:00 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company E, Clinton, 8:40 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company K, Delavan, 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company M, Canten, 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company A, Areola, 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company D, Paris, 3:00p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company H, Shelbyville, 3:00 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company G, Effingham, 4:00 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company B, Hoopeston, 4:15 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company I, Vandalia, 6:00 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 60

First Infantry, Chicago, First Section, 9:20 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company I, Kankakee, 9:45 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 First Infantry, Chicago, Second, 9:50 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company B, Newton, 1o:00 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Company F, Mt. Vernon, 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15 Second Infantry, Chicago, 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16 Seventh Infantry, Chicago, 10:40 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 16 Troops A,C,E,F and I, First Calvary Chicago, 3:45 p.m. Monday, Aug. 17 Sheriff Werner Always In Charge With the arrival of the Decatur troops Brigadier General Wells assumed charge of the troops subsequent to transferring his command to major General Young. At no time, however, during the presence of the troops in Left: National Guard tents at the Illinois State Arsenal, Springfield, August, 1908 the city did the actual command of them pass from the Sheriff, who under the law is made the directing and responsible officer.

When the assembling of the guard was complete it was estimated that there were 3500 officers and men in the city. The daily pay of these aggregated $8,290 and the cost approximately $2,625, so that the cost per day was $10,915. It is estimated that it will cost between $18,000 and $20,000 for transportation of the troops to Springfield and from the capital to their homes.

The conduct of the troops while in the city was highly commendable and guardsmen from all over state may be proud of the actions of their comrades.39 The Forum, September 5, 1908, p4 As in the previous column, Governor Charles S. Deneen was widely praised in newspapers throughout the country for his quick response to the rioting and for his public condemnation of the mob action as shown in the following column: DENEEN COMMENDED View of the Press on His Prompt 39

National Liberty Party Names Scott and Payne, St. Louis Republic, July 8, 1904.

61

Action on Outbreak of Springfield Riot __________ Situation was an evil one __________ New York World Says It Was Met With Vigor and Bravery. ___________ What Other Newspapers Have to Say In Regard to the Prompt Measures Taken by Governor Deneen ___________ The World Commends The prompt and vigorous action taken by Governor Deneen in calling several regiments of militia to the scene cannot fail to win for that officer the approval of his fellow citizens. Of even more significance than this performance of plain duty was his eloquent condemnation of lawlessness and his unequivocal assertion that it is to be put down at any cost.

Thus, whatever the crimes of blacks or of whites, the state of Illinois through its highest official agency, escapes responsibility. It does not temporize. It offers no excuses for anybody. It does not cringe in the presence of the mob. It commands peace and it leaves policies and future elections to take care of themselves. To make itself understood its troops are supplied will ball cartridges, and they have orders to use them. In no other way is it possible to have a government of law and justice.

We are face to face with conditions which call for great firmness and courage on the part of all who are charged with the duties of government. Mobs form in an hour. Incited at first by a specific grievance, they quickly become mere marauders. Inflamed at monstrous crimes, they perpetrate even greater ones. Blatantly pretending to execute a kind of wild justice, they must, unless soon checked, destroy, justice and law and peace.

The situation at Springfield was an evil one, but it appears to have been met by the authorities with commendable vigor and bravery. When order has been fully restored they should precede resolutely to the punishment of the guilty. – New York World40 The Forum, September 5, 1908, p7

The Illinois State Journal also praised Deneen’s actions, even though their “insidious” reporting added kindling to the fire of racism and rage that engulfed the city in violence.

40

National Liberty Party Names Scott and Payne, St. Louis Republic, July 8, 1904.

62

An Ideal Executive Governor Deneen has been a tower of strength to the stricken people of Springfield in their hour of dire need. In the prompt measures he has taken to assist the local officers of the law in their endeavor to restore peace and order he has shown the fiber of which he is made. He has set the pace for those executive officers who temporize and falter in the face of danger. When he said the entire resources of the state would be drawn upon to protect every citizen of Springfield in his person and property he meant it. And he already had acted to carry this declaration into effect.

As soon as he was informed of the conditions existing he immediately called out the National Guard, and such was the sufficiency of the arrangements for their transportation that thy were at their post of duty before the ink had hardly dried upon the order. Brave, resolute and strong, wise temperate and just, Governor Deneen has within him that combination of qualities which go which go to make up the character of an ideal executive. Illinois State Journal41 ___________ Edgar County Commends Him The Republicans of Edgar county commended Governor Deneen’s action in calling troops to Springfield in their county convention. The Resolution was as follows: “Resolved, That while we deplore the present race riot that has and is now causing the eyes of the civilized world to be directed to the capital city of our great state, “That home of Abraham Lincoln, the emancipator of the colored race.” We desire to endorse the prompt and fearless action of Governor Chalres S. Deneen in his efforts to protect the citizens of Springfield (irrespective of color or condition), both in their lives and property, and we endorse his fearless orders for the prompt investigation of the riot by a special grand jury, and the punishment of the men who by their action as ringleaders of the mob have brought the blush of shame to the cheek of every citizen of the great state of Illinois.42 The Forum ran many articles on Governor Deneen and supported his re-election in 1909 making his the first Illinois Governor to hold two consecutive terms. In the same first issue after the riot, a front page column with a large picture of Governor Deneen stated,“When the dark clouds shall have passed away; when all of the perturb minds shall have become tranquil; yea; when the mist shall have passed from our eyes, the

41

The Forum, September 5, 1908, p7

42

Ibid 63

people, en masse, as well as the historian, will write high above all the rest, the name of one lone Chas. S. Deneen, as the “bright consummate flower of our noon day sun.”

If any try to deceive you be not deceived, for God is not mocked. Deneen is the man – he is for the right and right is sure to triumph.” 43 The ineptness of Sheriff Charles Werner was overshadowed by Governor Deneen’s immediate reaction upon hearing about the unrest. One can only imagine in sheer horror what the city would have looked like on the Monday following the start of the rioting on Friday morning.

The Forum’s editorials were brash with swords self-reliance, industriousness and moral character for its African American readers in the North and the South and words of admonition for the white power structure as evidenced by the following editorials: “Colored people in the South and in other states are, invited to come to Illinois sand to this county and city and make their habitat. Illinois is rich in soil; rich in her supply of brain; rich with tradition, the greatest state in manufactories and political supply of able men for high places. We extend you the hand of welcome but we want frugal, industrious law abiding colored men who will prove a credit not a dishonor; men who will work not loaf; men who will go out and farm and raise cattle and garden, not peanut politicians. This is a fine country for such men. We also invite colored men here who have some capital and desire to go into business. The Negro Men’s Business League desires to encourage colored enterprises. This, we have long since discovered is not encouraged enough. Our people are to lethargic in business. We need from shoe stores to first class shining parlors and people who have business qualities enough to run them.44 “The burning of a man at the stake does not take any of the luster from the colored people; it does not check the alleged crime, and does not show any high regard the brutes have for womanhood or the sanctity of the home. It only shows that the perpetrators and their kind, are degenerating into the medieval barbarism from which they came. The taking of a life in such a manner as was done in Texas, in a civilized land, where we boast of culture and refinement, by the people of the Aryan race, who claim to be all and all, should cause every young and old person to bow his or her head in shame and meditate for verily the day of wrath shall come, and great will be the coming.” 45 “THE AGITATOR The agitator is a menace to any community and to the country at large especially is this true on things appertaining to the colored man.

43

The Forum, September 5, 1908, p1 The Forum, March 6, 1909.

45 The Forum, March 13, 1909 44

64

We doubt the good done by any chronic agitator. We define this person to be anyone who complains of everything, sees no good in anything, is forever planning and dreaming – he imagines everything is aimed at him or his because he is not of a certain color or class.

Go forth and do your duty and do it to the best of your ability and wait for the results. Be optimistic if you are right you can’t fail, if you are wrong, you can’t succeed.” 46 Active in civic affairs, in 1940, Rogers was the Chairman for the 78th Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation Day. Then Springfield Mayor John W. Kapp, Jr. proclaimed September 23, 1940 as Emancipation Proclamation Day and urged, “all our citizens to respect the purpose of this occasion and the people associated with it , and that they release from service for the day, all those desiring to take place in the celebration.”

46

The Forum, March 20, 1909.

65

ILLINOIS CHRONICLE (1912-1969) Left: Inman Foster Sr. “If you give Black people a chance, they’ll make it….

The above words were reportedly preached by Inman Foster Sr. to his children and others.

However, Foster created his own opportunities and operated his own letterpress printing firm for more than fifty years. He was born in LaGrange, Missouri and educated in Quincy, Illinois.

In the early 1900s he learned letterpress printing through an apprenticeship with Sluhaw Printing Company. He established the Illinois Chronicle in 1912. In 1952, the paper was headquartered at 1121-1123 East Washington Street. By 1960, its offices moved to 1531 east Capital Avenue. It was told by Jacqueline Johnson, Foster’s daughter in 1990 that W.E. B. Dubois and other prominent Blacks would stop by the shop when they p[assed through or visited Springfield.

The subscription cost increased from $4.00 per year in the 1950s to $5.00 by 1960.

In addition to publishing the newspaper, Inman Foster Sr. in partnership with the Springfield Urban League founded the Carver Trade School. He also authored a book in the 1920s entitled, Achievements of the Race. He operated the business for 45 years.

Like its predecessors, the paper carried local and national news of importance to the African American community. The major difference is lack of editorial and commentary from the editor. A review of the paper from its January 24, 1952, November 22, 1960 and October 15, 1967 had the following stories which had stories that exemplify the news of the day.

The Chronicle’s news calendar is evidenced 66

by the following Notice: NOTICE CHRONICLE NEWS CALENDAR (A convenience for readers when reporting news.)

Monday – Church News, Poems, Locals Tuesday – Society, Locals List, Births, Deaths, Locals Wednesday – Club News, Sick Thursday – Want Ads, Front Page Articles, Locals Friday – The Chronicle Goes to Press.

Saturday – Circulation day

In the January 24, 1952 article entitled, Governor Explodes Racial Myths, the paper carried the entire speech from Illinois Governor Adlai Stevenson’s speech before the National Urban League Banquet in New York January 21, 1952 calling it the “speech of the half century.” Excerpts of the speech as follows: “I count it a privilege to have this opportunity to pay my respects to the National Urban League which for forty years with moderation and reason has reminded us that the American Negro needed not alms but opportunity. The progress toward his fuller participation in American life in that interval must be gratifying to many of you who have been in the forefront of the struggle for so long. The pattern has changed spectacularly in those years, in the South as well as in the North.

Yet the problem still remains, both North and South. Indeed our illiteracy in human relations is, I think you will agree perhaps our foremost domestic problem. And now, suddenly, it has been further magnified. Perilously challenged on both flanks, with the totalitarian roadways to the right and to the left of us more heavily traveled the hostile world has rudely exhibited for all to see this fire hazard in the basement behind America’s golden doors. …we know that racial bigotry and violence are mute denials of the sincerity of the principles emblazoned on our banners, principle which have made us in truth the last, best hope on earth. Bigotry, intolerance, race violence and the social tensions they engender not only serious handicaps upon our strength and unity as a nation, but they are visible encumbrance on America’s leadership in the world where we must lead or lose. And to lead we still have to tell the world 67

what we are for not just what we are against. We can ill afford to exhibit to the world either injustice or incompetence in securing the rights of every citizen or in dealing with the relations of all racial groups, because what we do speaks much louder than what we say. …The American dream belongs to every American. The Negro-American wants it no less than any other. But the Negro-American more than any other, has reason to regard it as more a promise than a reality. Nevertheless, the confidence of the Negro in our expanding democracy is as one with that of every other American, for he to has enjoyed the good fruit of our progress in strengthening and extending democracy in every corner of the land. …The answer to communism is democracy; not less democracy; or just enough but more. And democracy is color blind. …While we are defining with increasing preciseness the legal responsibilities of government for protecting the citizenship right of all Americans, we must also spread patiently tirelessly , everywhere and at every social and economic level and clearer understanding of the common responsibilities that life in a democratic country imposes upon us all.”

In the November 22, 1960 issue, the following article entitled Urban Vote Elects Kennedy discusses how the urban vote (which was mostly Negro) helped elect John F. Kennedy as President of the U.S. defeating Republican Richard Nixon: “In addition to carrying big urban cities such as New York, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Detroit, Chicago, St. Louis, Los Angeles and San Francisco, the Democrats gained substantially in the newer suburban areas surrounding such cities. Thus seemed to reflect the gradual decentralization of industry in which workers have followed their jobs and have continued to tend to support the Democratic Party. Johnson’s extremely vigorous campaign in the South may have been decisive in holding not only his home state of Texas for the Democrats but also North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas and Louisiana with a total of 81 electoral college votes.

Negro voters in Northern cities seemed to have voted heavily for the KennedyJohnson ticket, with Republican National Committee Chairman Thurston B. Morton saying that only 10 percent to 20 percent had voted republican.

In the article entailed, NAACP Seeks Peace in Ghettos in October 15, 1967 issue, the editor discusses police brutality resulting from the Newark riots.

“The national Association for the Advancement of Colored People has retained legal counsel to handle police brutality charges stemming from the Newark riots.

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Robert L. Carter, NAACP Chief Legal Counsel, also announced that his office would supply legal aid to at least three Newark Negro business leaders who have accused police and National Guardsmen of “wantonly” spraying bullets into their businesses because they had sought to protect establishments by scrawling “soul brother” on their display windows.

In an earlier development, NAACP Executive Director Roy Wilkins stated in a telegram to New Jersey Governor Richard Hughes that remarks made by the Governor during the destructive riot had been “misinterpreted” were being used “by elements in the white community to arm themselves…for an open shooting season on Negros.

While deploring the five days of violence which cost 26 lives and millions of dollars in property damage, Mr. Wilkins said that “indiscriminate spraying of apartments with bullets to stop snipers had actually spread alarm and anger in the population.”

The NAACP Convention in Boston also condemned the riotous destruction of life and property. However, in an emergency resolution passed at a convention plenary session, delegates placed much of the blame for the Northern New Jersey riots on :”the city administration for its failure to take corrective action to meet many of the grave social ills of the Negro community.”

“Slum housing conditions in Newark are among the worst of any urban community in the United States. The recent efforts of the mayor to appointing unqualified white man over an exceptionally qualified Negro to the post on the Board of Education in the face of a unified demand from the Negro community is certainly a contributing cause to the riot,” the resolution added. “There must be a rooting out of evils in race relations and a thorough redress of legitimate grievances.”

Meanwhile, Mrs. Irene H. Smith, president of the New Jersey state conference of the NAACP, and Miss Sally J. Carroll, Newark NAACP Branch president, charged at a news conference here that the riots were caused by unemployment, underemployment, poor housing, educational and recreational facilities and continued refusal of public officials to listen to complaints from the Negro community.”

In 1967 rioting erupted in many urban cities with Newark, New Jersey and Detroit, Michigan being the worse. In response to the rioting on July 28, 1967, President Lyndon B. Johnson established the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, known as the Kerner Commission. It was named after its chair, Governor Otto Kerner, Jr. of Illinois. The Kerner Commission was an eleven member commission. Johnson wanted the Kerner Commission to answer three basic questions concerning the mounting ciccil disorder that was occurring throughout the country since 1965, : "What happened? Why did it happen? What can be done to prevent it from happening again

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and again? Upon completion of its study, On February 29, 1968, the Commission reported: THIS IS OUR BASIC CONCLUSION: Our nation is moving toward two societies, one black, one white – separate and unequal.

Reaction to last summer’s disorders has quickened the movement and deepened the division. Discrimination and segregation have long permeated much of American life; they now threaten the future of every American.

This deepening racial division is not inevitable. The movement apart can be reversed. Choice is still possible. Our principle task is to define that choice and to press for a national resolution.

To pursue our present course will involve the continuing polarization of the American community and, ultimately, the destruction of basic democratic values.

The alternative is not blind repression or capitulation to lawlessness. It is the realization of common opportunities for all within a single society.

This alternative will require a commitment to national action – compassionate, massive and sustained, backed by the resources of the most powerful and the richest nation on this Earth. From every American it will require new attitudes, new understanding, and above all, new will.

THE VITAL NEEDS of a nation must be met; hard choices must be made and, if necessary, new taxes enacted. Violence cannot build a better society. Disruption and disorder nourish repression, not justice. They strike at the freedom of every citizen. The community cannot – it will not – tolerate coercion and mob rule. Violence and destruction must be ended – in the streets of the ghetto and in the lives of people.

Segregation and poverty have created within the racial ghetto a destructive environment totally unknown to most white Americans.

What white Americans have never fully understood – but what the Negro can never forget – is that white society is deeply implicated in the ghetto.

White institutions created it, white institutions maintain it and white society condones it.

It is time now to turn with all the purpose at our command to the major unfinished business of this nation. It is time to adopt strategies for action that will produce quick and visible progress. It is time to make good the promises of American democracy to all citizens – urban and rural, white

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and black, Spanish-surname, American Indian and every minority group.

OUR RECOMMENDATIONS embrace three basic principles: 1. To mount programs on a scale equal to the dimension of the problems; 2. To aim these programs for high impact in the immediate future in order to close the gap between promise and performance; 3. To undertake new initiatives and experiments that can change the system of failure and frustration that now dominates the ghetto and weakens our society.

These programs will require unprecedented levels of funding and performance, but they neither probe deeper nor demand more than the problems which called them forth. There can be no higher priority for national action and no higher claim on the nation’s conscious.

We issue this report now, four months before the date called for by the President. Much remains that can be learned. Continued study is essential.

As commissioners we have worked together with a sense of the greatest urgency and have sought to compose whatever differences exist among us. Some differences remain. But the gravity of the problem and the pressing need for action are to clear to allow further delay in the issuance of this report.” 47 President Johnson ignored the Commission’s report and their recommendations. He had already pushed through the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act but rejected the Commission’s recommendations. The Commission’s warnings came true one month and three days after the release of its report when Rev. Dr. martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968 and violence erupted in over one hundred cities across the country.

The rioting caught most local authorities off guard and they wee not able to cope with or control the restless, angry and agitated mobs. To maintain order in the future, the Commission recommend that local officials develop guidelines governing the use of control equipment and provide alternatives to the use of lethal weapons. No one local official adhered to this more than Newark, New Jersey, Police Director Dominick A. Spina. In an April 20, 1968 interview in the Saturday Evening Post, Spina stated, :We have had our riot (wearing a skull face ring that he took from a German SS officer in World War II. “And I can tell you this, it will not happen here again. We weren’t ready 47

Summary of riot report; “It is time for action…”, Chicago Daily News, Friday, March 1, 1968

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last time. We didn’t have the protection we needed for our officers nor the weapons.

We’ve got them now, and we will use them. We will do everything humanly possible to keep a riot from breaking out. But if trouble starts, we wont make the mistake we made before. We won’t waste five hours begging people to go home peacefully. Fifteen minutes after the crowd starts gathering we’ll have one hundred men there, armed with shotguns. We will disperse the crowd, and our patrols will keep it dispersed. They can shout and yell all they want—that’s their right. But the minute the first brick goes through a window, we’ll start making arrests. Thus time there won’t be any fooling around. ”48 The aftermath of the 1968 riots provided the basis for today’s anti rioting techniques used by police departments throughout the country.

Inman Foster Jr. Right; Inman foster Jr. According to Inman Foster Jr, he along with all of his five siblings were practically raised in his father’s printing shop.

He opened Inman Printing, Inc. in Bloomington, Illinois doing contract work for State Farm Insurance, Illinois Bell (AT&T), the State of Illinois Habitat for Humanity of McLean County and the U.S. Post Office Cook Street Branch. He also published Who’s Who In the Land of Lincoln 1958 and the Land of Lincoln Progress Report 1962, which was an advertisement book with news, photos and information on Springfield’s Black community which would be similar to the Black Pages which are printed by various publishers today in Black Communities throughout the country. He also published the Bronze Peoria Herald. According to Inman Foster Jr., Inman Printing, Inc. was founded, “in a response to a need for black education materials in Central Illinois.” From 1944 to 1948, he taught typesetting and hand composition to World War II veterans at Caver Trade School that was founded by his father. A Republican, on June 25, 1985, Inman Jr. received the following letter from President Ronald Regan: THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON June 25, 1985 Dear Mr. Foster 48

The Fires of Summer, Harold H. martin, Saturday Evening Post, April 20, 1968

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Ed Madigan and Paul Findley have brought to my attention the splendid work you did on my behalf and fro the Republican Party during the last presidential campaign.

I want to assure you of my personal thanks for your outstanding efforts.

Left: Inman Publishing Building formerly located at 1121 East Washington.

As I said at the Capitol Rotunda, our nation is poised for greatness. We have come a long way in four years, but many unfinished taks await us. We seek nothing less than a Second American Revolution – a sea of change of hope, opportunity and freedom. This is the dream that God has placed in the human heart and, as your contributions show, that dream still burns brightly within the bounds of these blessed shores.

Nancy joins me in sending best wishes. God bless you.

Sincerely, Ronald Regan In the journal, The Achievements of a Race, 1980, which was published to educate local African American youth on the basis of prejudices and stresses the importance of getting an education as a means to rise above society’s prejudices in spite of those within the school system to try to get them to drop out.. The opening editorial stated: There was no reason to compare the two men. They represent two different worlds of culture, and perhaps that was precisely why I found myself doing so. It is true that both are homo-sapien, one Black the other white. But no justification has been rectified from above as to who is superior. And yet, from observation it has been pre-devised that one man shall dominate the others actions to the point of infringing into his personal culture. Throughout history man has tried to dominate other men. From this action retaliation has been sparked and many societies have fallen.

Ignorance is a force of the exploiting society, primed with prejudice against a culture of strength over taken by a culture of 73

intellect. The definition of culture used in this text means survival.

The society of America is a combination of many cultures within cultures. And from Black observation, it has been pre-devised that white culture shall control the others. The source of this control originates from prejudice. Prejudice in America exits to keep ignorance available for exploitation and control.

Education is the weapon used to fight ignorance. But an education not used in some needed endeavor is as useless as a gun with no bullets. The full sting of an education can be felt when used in some profession or trade. It is not easy to get an education. There are many prejudices within the school system thee to stop you. But this should make you more determined to stay and learn more.

Remember the future is ours the young, gifted and Black, and soon we will have to carry the ball. The harder the subject in school, the value it has in life.49 This journal was published seven years before a Federal Court ordered a change in the city form of government from a commissioner form to an Aldermanic form of government as a result of the lawsuit Frank McNeil, et al vs. City of Springfield, Illinois, et al. (will be discussed more later).

African American youth were encountering prejudices at school and the African American community as a whole was experiencing the same type of prejudices in everyday life within the city of Springfield which has been historically engrained with prejudiced attitudes and behaviors toward the African American community.

In 1980, the National Endowment for the Arts funded a study by the John Hopkins University study which concluded (1) that Springfield was the most segregated city of its size and racial composition of cities it surveyed; (2) the clear existence of a black ghetto based on dramatic segregation in hosing. In addition, League of Women Voters and Springfield Urban League studies found (1) inadequate laws to protect racial minorities from discrimination; (2) Racism and prepuce in hotels and restaurants still prevalent.

Hotels and Restaurants were closed to African Americans until the 1960s. For example, former State of Illinois Senate President Cecil Parteee stated: “As a matter of fact, when I went to Springfield in 1947 to be sworn I as an attorney, I could not eat at the same hotel with the other lawyers being sworn in. They had it in the Abraham Lincoln Hotel and we were not admitted.�50

49 50

The Achievements of a Race, 1980, Inman Foster Jr., p. 2 Cecil Partee Memoirs, Illinois General Assembly Oral History Program p 63, 1982

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“Probably the most obvious examples of this discrimination have been the segregation of the beaches on Lake Springfield, the segregation of the former Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Swimming Pool, the existence of two municipal bands… For example, the main beach on Lake Springfield opened in 1935. Prominent Black citizen William Ashby chronicled the opening of the lake and his urging of Blacks to go swimming at the beach.

The first day brought a call from then mayor Kapp who said, “ My phone has rung all night. I received threats to my person, my family, my house, and my political career will be at an end if Negroes are permitted to go into the lake again. I want to ask you to call your people off until I can work out a plan fro you.” The plan obviously was to build a new beach to accommodate Black citizens called Bridgeview beach.”51

Above; Lithographing class at Carver Trade School, circa 1951 A major concern of the Black Egyptians and Black Spirits of the late 60s and early 70s, (whom will be discussed later in this work) Springfield is characterized by history of discrimination in employment of African Americans in both the public and private sectors. More specifically, the city has a history of disenfranchising African Americans from city employment positions. In addition, private employers have systematically erected barriers to hinder young African Americans from entering apprenticeship training programs. This lack of economic opportunity transforms into overall higher unemployment, increased high school dropout rates, increased rat6es of incarceration among a targeted population.

Through the efforts of Springfield Branch NAACP President Teresa Haley’s efforts, in August 2011, for the first time in the city’s history, 51

William Ashby, Tales Without Hate, 1980

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the city mandated that 25 percent of new police and fire recruits be minorities to ensure that new hires be representative of the community as a whole. As of this writing the city has a total population of 11,479 (2011) with a total African American population of 21,344 or 18 percent. While the total number of police officers is 147 with the percentage of African American police officers being 13 or 8.8%, which is less than half of the total percentage of the African American population.

Above; Carver Trade School Drum and Bugle Corp performing in downtown Springfield, circa 1952 Many activists, sociologists believe that local police departments should reflect the populations that they serve as a means to avert prejudiced and racist tactics by those that are supposed to protect and serve.

Carver Trade School Inman Foster Sr. was the founder and Director of the Carver Trade School which was located at 1121-23 East Washington Street, which is the current site of the Springfield Urban League.

The school’s Registrar was G.B. Winston. The school taught Lithographing, welding and other trades. On Sunday, July 22, 1951, The Carver Trade School held its Grand Opening, at which time the Carver Trade School Drum and Bugle Corps performed in front of the building.

The Carver Trade School Drum and Bugle Corps was sponsored by the Otis B. Duncan, American Legion. It was open to girls and boys between the ages of twelve and eighteen.

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They not only performed locally in parades and at the State Fair but also traveled to other cities to showcase their talents.

A front page column in The Chronicle on July 21, 1951 stated, “ the appearances of the Corp is good advertising for the Colored people of Springfield and the boys and girls in it are to be commended for doing their bit to help make Springfield a better place to live in. No one connected with it receives any money for services. Practically all of the expense is taken care of by the sponsor, Carve trade School.

All the Corp deserves praise but the strutting of little Protiean Pinn and Scrappy Harvell is tops in any parade and the drum Major, Billie jones is a sight to behold and a show stopper.�52

52

The Chronicle, July 21, 1951, p. 1

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NEGRO DEMOCRAT (1934-1936) The Negro Democrat was a Democratic paper established in 1934 by Dr. Robert H. Beverly who was also its Managing Editor.

It was published by the Negor Democrat Publishing Company which was headquaterd at 210 ½ South 5th Street, Sprigfield, Illinois. Its masthead states that it is an “EXCLUSIVE NEGRO DEMOCRATIC NEWSPAPER.” It stated it was the “Official Organ of the Downstate Democratic League, Inc.” In its December 22, 195 issue there is an article on First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt delvering the principal address at the 15th Anniversary of the founding of the national Urban League in Baltimore, Maryland.

A brief editorial states, “Let Us In The Future Use Our Vote As A Tool And Not Allow The Politicians To Use Us As A Tool.”

Sections and contibutors of the paper were: This Week in Washington Today and Tommorrow By Frank Parker Stockbridge The Very Latest By Patricia Dow – a women’s fashion column The Story fo the Constitution By Caleb Johnson From the Merchants of Decatur – an advertising page Society, Clubs, Personal East St. Louis News By Mrs. F.C. Carol Mt. Vernon News By Mrs. Hattie Pierce Jacksonville News By David Harris Mound City News By Irene C. Eskridge East Moline News By Nettie Williams Metropolis News By Nettie Williams 78

Colp News By Virginia Davis Quad City News By E.J. Proctor Spirit News The Divorce Court Murder By Milton Propper – a serial suspense Also on its masthead at the very top is the following quote from Franlikn D. Roosevelt, “ The People of this nation Understand What We Are Trying to Do.” Having been started during the Great Depression, it saw Roosevelt’s New Deal as the impetus needed to bring economic partiy to African Americans. In its issues its stressed the impact that the New Deal would have on African Amercns and how many were being employd in the variois New Deal programs.

The December 20, 1935 issue carried a full page entitled, “The “New Deal” And The Negro – Facts and Figures” in the “This Week in Washington” section of the paper which had the following articles: “48000 Colored Young Men Engaged at 250 Camps” __________________________ SIX CAMPS IN ILLINOIS HAS 1200 JUNIORS

Robert Fechner, Director of the Emergency Conservation Work Organization announced today that 48,000 colored young men and veterans at approximately 250 CCC camps are engaged in soil conservation; flood control; levee building and state park and forestry improvement; mosquito control; expansion of game reservations and general reclamation projects on public and private lands under the supervision of the Department of Interior; the Department of Agriculture and Army and Navy engineers in every state of the Union; Hawaii, Puuerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

The records show that soil conservation ranks first among the activities carried on by the colored CCC enrollees. As of November 1, 1935, 621 colored CCC companies were engaged in such projects under the Department of Agriculture..

Reforestation in the national and state forests came second with 55 colored CCC companies stationed in these areas: 43 other companies doing recreational improvement work in the state parks of the country. Forty colored camps are located on private lands doing levee; drainage; flood control and fire prevemntion work.

Colored CCC enrolees in strictly Negro companies and others in mixed units are participating in the two scale other ECW classisifications of work on the

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nation’s wide spread conservation program in 46 states and insular possessions.

Illinois has 1,200 colored junior and veteran enrollees at six camps. Two are on drainage projects near Chicago, one in the Illinois National Forest and three are engaged in soil conservation work. There are a number of other CCC compnaies in Illinois both junior and veteran, with from one to nineteen colored enrollees.

William I. Pryor and Richard M. Hughes the two other colored CCC educational advisers, were appointed on the recommendation of Stanford Sellers Jr., Educational Adviser of the Sixth Corps area. They will serve camps in Illinois and Michigan.

Between 1933 and 1936, during Frankiln D. Roosevelts first term, a series of economic programs termed the New Deal were passed by Congress and executive order in response to the Great Depression.

The programs forused on Relief, Recovery and Reform commnoly termed the “3Rs.” There was Relief for the poor and unemployed, Recovery of the economy to post depression levels and Reform of the financial system to prevent future depressions.

The New Deal made the Democratic party the the majorioty party in the United States from 1933 to 1969. Duirng this time period the Democratic Party held the White House for seven of nine presidential terms. The New Deal has been sepaarted into the “First New Deal (1933-34)” and the “Second New Deal (1935-38) ” by historians.

On March 21, 1933, Roosevelt, an ardent conservationist, proposed a national conservation program that was similar to a prgram that he operated as Governor of New York. He told Congress, “I propose to create a civilian conservation corps to be used in similar work, not interfering with normal employment, and confining itself to forestry, the prevention of soil erosion, flood control and similar projects. I call your attention to the fact that this type of work is of definite , practical value, not only through the prevention of great present financial loss, but also as a means of creating future national wealth.” The Emergency Conservation Work Act was introduced the same day and enacted by a voice vote on March 31, 1933. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 6101 on April 5th and named his close friend Robert Fechner, a former labor union official to head the agency.

The Civilian Conservation Corps (“CCC”) operated from 1933 -1943 as a work relief program for unemployed and unmarried men from reilef families ages 18-28. Its goal 80

was to provide unskilled manual labor jobs in conservation and natural resource development on local, state and federally owned rural lands as well as limited privately owned lands. Enrollees were payed a nomianl wage of $30 per month and were provided food, clothing and shelter. Enlistment was for a period of six months although many re-enlisted. Two and a half million young men participated in the CCC with the maximum enrollment at any given one time being 300,000. The propgram benefits were listed as heightended morale, improved physical conditon and enhanced employability. Of the $30 per month that was paid to each enrollee, $25 of that amount was paid to their parents. The program was closed by Congress in 1942 as World War II war industries starting booming.

African Americans and other minorities encountered many problems in the CCC. Prior to 1933 some camps were intergrated because policy prohibitied discrimination. By 1935, according to Fechner, there was “a complete segregation of white and colored enrollees but segregation is not discrimination.”

During the peak iof the program there were 150 all African American CCC companies that had more than 250,000 enrollees. African American memerbship was restricted to just ten percent of total enrollees which mirrored the percent of African Americans in the overall U.S. population. “When the CCC began, few efforts were made to actively recruit African Americans. Many states, particularlyin the South, passed over qualified African American applicants to enroll all whites. Black CCC enrollees routinely faced hostilelocal communities, endured the racist attitudes of individual CCC, Army and Forest Servicesupervisors, and found limited opportunitiesfor assuming leadership positions within the CCC administrative structure. This inhospitable environment was aided by the absence of a sustained commitment on the part of the Roosevelt Administration to end racist practices within the CCC.”53 “ADD SPECIALIST TO NEGRO AFFAIRS DIVISION _____________________________ Houchine Appointed Announcement has been made of the appointment of Joseph R. Hochine of Ithica, New York, as Assistanrt business Specialist in the Division of Negro Affairs of the Bureau of Foreign and Domsetic Commerce. His duty will be to gather factual data helpful to Negro economic life. – principally in the field of 53

African Americans in the Civilian Conservation Corps

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Business and Commerce. He will act as assistant to Eugene Kinckle Jones, Advisor on Negro Affairs of the Department of Commerce.

Mr. Houchine’s schedule of work calls for studies in such subjects as Causes of Business failures, Loan Shark Practices Among Negros, Consumer Habits (installment buying) , Credit Facilities Available to Negro Business Men, and Trade and Business Associations Among Negroes – How They May Be Improved.

Mr. Houchine has been for five years head of the Department of Economics and Government at Wiley College, Marshal Texas. He has four degrees from Cornell University – Bachelor of Atrs, Master of Arts in Economics, Bachelor of Laws, and Doctor of the Science of Law. He has alos completed his residence requirements for his PhD. degree. Throughout his studies he has specialized in Economics and in Labor Legislation. He began his duties in the Commerce Department on November 15.

Joseph R. Hochine, Eugene Kickle Jones and other African Americans appointed to federal positions were known as “race advisors.” They also served as collectors and dissemenators of data about African Americans. For example, Ambtrose Caliver’s studies on black education, Alfred Edgar Smith’s statistics on the black share of unemployment relief ; and Lawrence Oxley’s surveys of blacks in organized labor and black white-collar workers on relief were all the result of projects conducted by race advisors. From a political perspective the race advisor was an important booster for the New Deal. “He served a two way public relations function: he interpreted the needs of blacks to white governmental officials, and he interpreted the program of his agency to Black Americans.”54 “The gains that African Americans did achieve during the New Deal were largely due to the relentless efforts of Jones and a cadre of black professionals who worked with Mary McLeod Bethune and the Roosevelt Adminisirtion. In 1935, Jones reported to the Secretary of Commerce Daniel C. Roper that he had delivered ninety one public addresses since taking office in November 1933. In practically every appearance Jones addressed the economic and social welfare concerns of African Americans. Joens aided black employment by helping to create 294 white collar jobs by 1935 in thirty selected cities and outlining a plan for the study of Negro BusinessResources through the Presidents work relief program. Jones reported that the main object of the study would be to produce datawhich can be utilized to improve general business practices among Negroes and to expand their business institutions.”55 Jones was appointed by President Roosevelt in 1932 as part of his “black cabinet” which also known as the “kitchen cabinet.” The black cabinet was first named the Federal Council of Negro Affiars which was an informal group of public policy advisors. By 54 55

Black Politics in the Age of FDR Eugene Kinckle Jones: The National Urban League

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1935, there were forty five African Americans working in various federal executive departments. Other prominent mebers of the blkack cabinet included Dr. Robert C. Weaver, Federal Housing Authority; Mary McLeod Bethune, National Youth Adminsitration; Lawrence A. Oxley, Department of Labor; Edward H. Lawson Jr., ; Works Projects Adminisration; Joseph R. Houchins, Department of Commerce and William J. Trent; Federal Works Agency to name a few.

Jones was Executive Secretary of the national Urban League from 1911-1951).

In the following December 20, 1935 a commentary was submitted by Springfield, Illinois attorney Wm. B. Bruce that describes the concept of the New Negro and how this tranformed being will impact the natioanl debate and political landscape.

“The “New Negro” In Politics Vs. The Old” Immediately after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation by Abraham Lincoln in which he set free four millions of Negro slaves and a short time thereafter when Congress passed the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments to the Constitution of the United States giving them their citizenship rights and priviledges as well as their suffrage; the Negroes in America; having labored under the yoke of slavery for over two and one half centuries; were set free and put upon their own resources in ignorance, poverty, superstition and skepticism and were divided both future social, civic, political and in purpose and plan as to their economic status. Being uneducated and therefore ignorant as to procedure, they necessarily and naturally became dependent upon their white former masters, white friends and white critiques for advice, guidance and protection during those turbulent times immediately after the Civil War. When they found out that they could vote and do other things as any other citizen, they swallowed, hook, line, sinker and all of the Republican party’s principles and precepts because they were made to believe that the Republican party and Abraham Lincoln actually and truly had saved them from the awfullness of slavery. By these same white advisors and self styled leaders, they were taught to hate and distrust one another, to believe that this was and is a white man’s world, and that the Negro is only here by sufferance, that they must forever bow and be dependent upon the white man’s dictations and mandates and that the Negro must always remember and keep ever before himself and his generations yet unborn that he owes the Republican party a debt of gratitude that can never be repiad by them, therefore, they must always remain Republicans, bred and born, and when they die, they must be Republcians gone.

Of course, the Republicans have in certain sections of the country, from time to time encouraged the Negroes to a certain extent to remain Republicans by giving them certain insignifiant consdierations in jobs and a smattering amount of citizenship priviledges, but in the main, the Negores have been fooled,

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hood winked, and kept dependent , sceptical, and selfishly jealous of each others progress by Republican propoganda.

The Republicans are now blating and ranting about tampering with and destroying the precepts and landmarks of the Constitution, when with all their years of rule in all the branches of the United States government, they have at all times winked at, and totally destroyed that vital part of the Constitution which vitally affects the liberties of the Negroes in America, to wit: the 13 th, 14th and 15th Amendments to the Constitution . The Republican party luring its entire reign which has been almost continuosly and unspokenly for a period of seventy years, has done nothing to prevent those amendments from being practically null and void and yet now they blate and rant about the landmarks, precepts and principles of that splendid document, and that it must never be changed, but must always remain as a bulwark of protection to all the citizens alike, when Negroes are lynched, disfranchised, jim crowed, segregated and treated as dumb animals all over this land.

We are pleased to note at this timethat that old hankerchief headed, dyed in the wool, ignorant Negro is surely but surely dting out, and in his place and stead is rapidly growing into manhood and prominence in America today, the New Negro, the Negro who is trained in the same schools, colleges and universities as his white fellow brothers, the Negro who is learning to believe that in “unity there is strength� and is therefore uniting and coordinating intellectual, economic and his moral strength for which he may combat any emergency in his civic, social and economic life that may arise in the future. This New Negor has studied the history of all the political partie snad especially the vents leading up to, during and immediately following the Civil War, the organization of the Republican party, and the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation and is now fully aware that the Republican party did not save him or free him from slavery. He now owes the Republican party nothing either in votes or support.

This New Negro is reading, thinking and watching carefully and zealouslly the actions of both the major parties in their treatment of him and his fellow brothers and sisters in the sum total of their consieration of his present race as a factor in their politicl scheme. He wants both parties to understand that the color scheme and racial characterisitcs must not be the measuring rod of their consieration of him anymore; but if either party want any consieration of him anymore; if either party wants any consderation in votes and political consideration from this New Negro, it must lay its cards on top of the table and piny the game fair and square on the basis of merit and worth and not on the grounds of color. The New Negro is organizing his voting strength, his intellectual and all over this state and through out moral forces into organziationsthe various states where Negroes have a voting balance of power – throughout the nation, because he realizes that one of the most hotly contestd campaigns in the history of this country is just over the hill.

He also realizes that the Republican party has done nothing concretely in all their years of control of governmental affairs for the economic , social and civic 84

betterment of the Negro. He realizes that the Democratic party during their short reign at different times has done but little, in the main, to encourage Negroes to swing that balance of power in voting strength unitedly to them and Roosevelt – Horner New Deal next year.

Therefore, this New Organized Negro is patiently, intelligently rationally and wisely watching the trend of events as it makes its nanoramic display upon the political horizon as the parties go into training for their life and death struggle next year.

---Atty. Wm. B. Bruce, 119 North Fifth Street, Springfield, Illinois The term “New Negro” , which refers to a more aggressive, educated, outspoken African American, was made popular during the Harlem Renaissance. The New Negro Movement, founded by Hubert Harrison in 1917, through the establishment of the Liberty League is described as the period from 1917 to 1935. The New Negro demanded their legal rights as citizens of the United States but also demanded not to be stereotyped with the old images of African Americans that were engrained in the American pysche. “African American philosopher Alain Locke articulated the “New Negro” as a member of “the race,” who emerged with the demise of the Old Negro during World War I, the Great Migration, and the “Red Summer” of 1919 militantly ready to fight for full citizenship rights through political activism and economic self-help, racial solidarity and pride, and new cultural and aesthetic expressions. 56 The term was also made popular by author Alain LeRoy Locke in his book entitled, The New Negro: An Interpretation of Negro Life published in December 1925. According to Locke, through culture and literature the New Negro strived for a “spiritual emancipation” with insistence on self-definition, self-expression and self-determination.

On March 19, 1968, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. trumpeted, “we’re going to let our children know that the only philosophers that lived were not Plato and Aristotle but W.E.B. Dubois and Alain Locke came through the universe.”

Politicls and social issues were not the only stories carried by African American newpspaers. They supported our athletes and entertainers as well as our politicians as evidenced by the December 20, 1935 article on Joe Louis’s knock out of Pualino Uzeudun.

“LOUIS STOPS CONCRETE PAULINO IN FOURTH The scheduled fifteen round match between Joe Louis and the No 1 contender form the Woirld heavy Weight Crown Paulino Uzeudun of Spain, better known as the one prize ring star who had never been floored in his long life of hard fought battles , was abbreviated when Louis, after three rounds of crab like 56

Alain Locke, ed., The New Negro: An Interpretation (New York: Macmillan, 1925)

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fighting as a method of surveying the Spaniard, brought the fight to an abrupt finish in the fourth with a short left to the concrete chin of Paulino, followed bya smashing right that toppled him over backward.

On the floor for the first time in his life, Paulino stsaggered to his feet at the count of eight, but was groggy and bleeding, Louis then landed one more right to the head and another hope waveredtoward the ropes looking to Referee Authur Donovan who promptly declared it ended.

It was not much of a fight, despute the fact that Louis fully justified the prediction of his backers that he would “crack the uncrackable” and demolish the Spaniard’s power of resistancewhich most of the better known heavyweights of the past decade have failed to penetrate. Long past his prime, and no match for the slugging colored youth, Paulino put up game but feeble resistance. The broad-beemed Basque has been beaten before, but this was the first timehe had been knocked down or stopped from going the limit.”

Paulino Uzeudun of Spain was a powerful rugged boxer who foguht most of the great heavyweights during his time. Nicknamed “the Basque woodchopper” Paulino retiered from boxing with a record of 50 wins (34 Kos) , 17 loses and 3 draws. He made his big mistake when he came out of retirement on December 13, 1935 to fight Joe “the Brown Bomber” Louis. The fight, which grossed $128,394 in receipts, took place before an overflowing crowd of 20,000 fight enthusiasts at Madison Square Garden. It was Louis’ twenty sixth professional ring victory and his twenty-secon knockout triumph. Louis received $36,878.00 for the fight which many sports writers declared was one of the easiest in his career. During the decade 1930-1939, Louis was the number one ranked Heavy Weight boxer with his most dmoniate performance being his first round knockout of Max Schmeling. He totally destroyed all of the heavy weight champions of the decade including Jack Sharkey, Primo Carnera and Max Baer. On December 16, 1935 Joe Louis was declared Outstanding Athlete of the Year by Associated Press’ sports experts.

Louis became Heavyweight Champion on June 22, 1937 when he defeated James Braddock with a Ko in the eighth round. When Louis became champion, tens of thoudsands of African Americans across the country stayed up all night celebration.

This fight had such an efect on and was such a seminal moment for African American’s that legendary Harlem Renaissance member Langston Hughes described it as follows: “Each time Joe Louis won a fight in those depression years, even before he became champion, thousands of black Americans on relief or W.P.A. and poor, would throng out into the streets all across the land to march and cheer and yell and cry because of joe’s one-man triumphs. No one else in the United States has

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ever had such an effect on Negro emotions – or on mine. I marched and cheered and yelled and cried, too.”57 Louis reigned as Heavyeweight chanpion until 1949 a period of eleven years and ten months, the longest period even held by a champion. He defened his title a total of twenty five times which is also still a record. Before Muhamad Ali’s famous boast, “I aj the Greatest,” Louis ranted, “He can run but he can’t hide” and “Everyone has a plan until they’ve been hit.” Despite earning over $ 4 million during his boxing career, Louis recived only $800,000 of it. After many failed busienss ventures and income tax troubles, Louis died of dire financial straits on April 12, 1981.

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Autobiography: The Collected Works of Langston Hughes, Vol. 14. Columbia Missouri: University of Missouri Press. P. 307Langston Hughes, Joseph McLaren ed. (2002)

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CAPITOL CITY NEWS (1942-1951) Left: Simeon Osbt, Captial City News founder and editor, circa 1940s The Capital City nes was established in 1947

by Simeon B. Osby, Jr. It was published by the Capital City New Company. It offies were located at 117 North Eighth Street, Springfield, Illinois. The paper was a member of the Associated Negro Press and Calvin News Service.

Initially described as a “ten page paper of standard tabloid size included a two page pictorial section and featured news and advertising of special interest to colored residents of Illinois.” Capital City News, 1947) Osby declared in 1947, ‘the news would avoid sensationalism and follow standard journalistic practicees.” He listed the aims of the paper as, “stimulation of business and encouragement of education, interracial co-operation and the democratic way of life.”

He declared the editorial policy would be Independed and would not faor one political party over another.

He was born in Springfield, Illinois May 15, 1909, the one of ten children of Simeon and Virgie Ella Osby. He attended the University of Illinois (1929-1932) where he was one of the founders of Omega Si Phi Fraternity, Lamd of Lincoln Omega Nu Chapter.

Osby was a personel officer with the National Youth Adminstration located at the Springfield Urban League from 1936-1943. This was the first New Deal Program in Springfield. He served in the U.S. Army and fought in World War I. He also served in the Kroena War. At the time of his discharge, he held the rank of First Leutinent. He was commisioned at the Transportation Corps’ Officer’s Training School in Camp Plauche, LA. February 14, 19___. He was stationed at Indiantown Gap, PA. Early in 1945 he was stationed in Hawaii and was later tranfered to the Tinian Islands. (SJ-R, 1945) He was a member of the Springfiedl Branch NAACP where he served as a member of the Executive Committee. He served as President from 1939-1943. He was Secretary of the Illinois State NAACP from 1933-1936.

He was past commander of American Legion Post #809 having been elected to the post in 1961. He was past president of the Springfiedl Branch ACLU, past memebr of Sigma 88

Delta Chi of the National Society of Professional Journalists. He was the Captial Correspondent for the Chicago Defender until the time of his retirement.

Osby was an activist and advisor on various civil rights issues for Springfield’s Black community. As the Vice President of the Project Area Council of the eastside Urban Renewal Project, he was an integral part of the development of the pioneer Park Urban Renewal Development program. He was also an integral part of the Voters’ Rights Lawsuit that led to Springfeild’s current form of governemtn to insure African Americna representation. He was a former memebr of the Oak Ridge Cemetary Board.

In 1959, he was appointed by Mayor Collins to the Sprignfield Housing Authority Board of Directors replacing Maj. R.A. Byrd after his death. He was recommended for the post on petitons signed by over five hundred persons.

He was appoointed by Mayor Mike Houston in 1980 to serve on the Lincoln Library Board of Trustees where he served as a senior member for thriteen years until the time of his death.

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Above: Members of the staff of the Capital City News her in an informal pose at the publication’s office, 117 N. Eighth St.. Left to Right: Simon Walker, Adevertising Manager; Harlan S. Watson, Associate Editor; Jeanne Smith, Osby’s Secretary; Simeon Osby, Editor and Publisher and Elsa Hubbard, Office Secretary. Other memebrs of the staff not present are T.W. Anderson, Circulation Manager and Reporter and Helen N. Stewart, Society Editor. This picture was taken fie weeks after Osby started the paper in 1947. Later, Winfred Helm became its photographer He also served as its past vice president. Osby belevied that, “Springfiedl has one of the most modern, up to date library set ups to be found anywhere in the state, and the completeness and wealth of these facilites and their educational and cultural assets should be made intimately familiar to all memebrs of the community. On July 26, 1993 in a resolution after his death, the Library Board of trustees issued a reslution which stated in part, “Mr. Osby worker diligently to achieve this goal during his tenure as a library board member, especially to ensure quality library service through the library’s Southeast Branch.

Mr. osby’s professional life as a journalist and his life long pattern of giving to the community, were efforts in his own words, “to help resolve social problems…we memebr of the Lincoln library board of Trustees heerby affirm that 90

the talents and contributions of Simeon B. Osby, will be sadly missed.”

On November 20, 1974 On November 20 1974, he delivered a lecture before the Sangamon County Historical Society entitled, The Long Road Back To Race Relations. The lecture discussed and analyzed the major efforts within the community to establsih racial goodwill and to effect racial justice in the wake of the Springfield Race Riot of 1908.

At age 73, in the following article entitled, The Pursuit of Happiness, Osby described what the Americna Dream means to him: “From where I am, I’d say the American Dream is to become fully accepted and involved in the American program. I’ve often compared our predicament to that of a person invited to a dinner, but instead of sitting at the main table, you’re set off to the side and given tidbits.

Unless you’re at the table with everyone else, its not the same.

I’m very gratifdied with some of the changes I’ve seen in my lifetime – and that’s 73 years. I was born here in Springfield, right after the race riot (of 1908), and it was my lot to grow up in the wakeof the hatred and discrimination and degredation that followed. I spent a large part of my life overcoming that.

“But I learned from my father to be proud of my country. He was a Spanish –American War veteran and taught us to be reat patriots. As a result, I’ve always had a lot of confidence in the exercise of our freedoms.

I’ve always differed from those who want to go outside the law to achieve their ends. I’ve always belvied, and I still believe, that the use of the press, the courts, the schools, the ballot and the work ethic will ventually win anyone a place in the American system.

“It takes patience, confidence, and good will. But the system can work and is working. I truly believe that.

“I guess I believe basically the American Dream m,enas ther is hope and opportunity for a great many. It doesn’t seem like it’ll ever be the Christian ideal, 100 percent social equality fro everybody all the time.

But I’d have to conclude, from all I’ve seen, that there is a great deal of hope and opportunity in this country – a great deal. At one time, I never

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Left: Simeon Osby with legendary writer Malden Jones. expected to see a black on the Supreme Court. I never expected to see a black president of the Illinois Senate. I’ve been gratified to see how much a great number of blacks have been able to achive.

“Me – I never dreamed of making a lot of money, and I’ve lived up to that! But I feel I’ve lived a significant life by contributing to the acceptance of my fellow people. I’ve always been able to work and live in harmony with my fellow man. I’ve been asked to sit on many, many (civic and governmental) boards. I’ve been on more letterheads! And I never sought any of it, except one time, I was appointed to city things (Springfield Housing Authority, Lincoln Library Board) without ever knowing the mayor. It’d been because I worked hard and diligently and I hope unselfishly to help resolve social problems.”

He was listed in Who’s Who Among African Americans in the early 1990.

He took pride in being one of Springfiedl’s leading historiasns on local civil rights issues.

He enjoyed reading, listening to classical music and playing his violin.

A staunch advocate for social and political justice for African Americans and a prolific writer, Osby’s editorials were educated his readers on their rights and responsibilites as African Americans and as human being living in a democracy. For example, in the 1940s the Ku Klux Klan attempted to rejuvinate itself to its heyday during the relase of the film Birth of a Nation. They were now terrorizig whites as well as blacks and in response to incidents in Alabama its state assembly passed legislation barring the wearing of masks in public. Here is Osby’s response to that legialtion in a June 18, 1949 editorial: “THE KKK IN RETROSPECT The Ku Klux Klan is using one of its ropes well – the one that it is using is breaking its own neck. Like the proverbial calf, where it has rope enough it is breaking its own neck.

The latest step in its self annihilation program is the ruling made by the Alabama Legislature forbidding the wearing of masks in public. The law was directly the result of Klans bold flogging of white people.

Had the varments been contented with beating Negroes, they might have survived awhile longer unmolested. Now that they have over stepped

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their bounds snd have wronged some white people, there may be some actual prosecutions and sentences.

Morale: Always recognize and stay within your limits.

Simeon B. Osby Jr. died July 14, 1993.

Doc Helm Left: Eddie Winfred “Doc” Helm The purpose of this work was to provide the reader with an insight into the Black Press, the individuals and minds that developed it and sustained it, the communities in which it advocated and the events of the day that it covered. My emphasis has been on the editors and publishers and not necessarily on staff. However, there is one individual who was affiliated not only with The Chronicle but with other African American papers as well whom I believe deserves recognition for his overwheming contribution not only to the Black Press but also for capturing the moments in time of African American culture and life. That individual is renowned photographer Eddie Winfred “Doc” Helm.

“Eddie Winfred “Doc” Helm was born in Mt. Vernon, Illinois on June 28, 1911. During the Great Depression he worked as an assistance at Bond’s Pharmacy. When some senior citizens couldn’t afford medicine, Helm used his own earnings to buy their medicines and personally delivered them at the end of the day. This is how he got the nickname “Doc.” In 1934, he moved to Springfield and got a job as a janitor with the State of Illinois. One of his major duties was to raise and lower the flag over the capitol dome, which meant climbing 360 stairs and the outside ladder at the top of the dome each day, regardless f the weather with no safety equipment. While in Mt. Vernon, he had begun taking pictures of friends and family. Once in Springfield, he realized that there were no black photographers doing studio work, and decided that he could fill that niche. He bought his first professional camera, took some correspondence courses in photography and built a dark room in his home. In 1943 he opened his commercial studio at 809 East Washington Street. 58 Left: Simeon Osby, circa 1980s

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Photographic Legacy; Eddie Winfred “Doc” Helm, The Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum, February 23-June 9, 2012.

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After eight years as a janitor, Doc transferred to the Illinois State Library, where he quickly rose from filing documents to book stack clerk, and then to microfilming documents. The Head Librarian Helen D. Rogers, let him use an unused photo lab at the library during his lunch hour. Impressed with his picture in February 1944 she recommended him for promotion to Official State Photographer for the Secretary of State where at last he was able to pursue his love of photography full time. He would go on to shoot hundreds of photos of state receptions, funerals, official portraits of politicians, dignitaries and celebrities. Much of his work went into the Illinois Blue Book.

In addition to his role at the State, Doc Helm also free-lanced for many local organizations within the African American community. Early on, he mastered the art of getting the right shot on the first click of the shutter, earning him the nickname of “One Shot Doc.” Film was expensive and Doc Helm worked hard not to waste it. This discipline served him well. In his own words, his philosophy was “if you don’t get it right the first time, you’re not going to get it the second.”

He photographed just about every subject imaginable , from formal ceremonies to candid shots of people socializing and just plain having fun, to children at play. He photographed local black businesses, entrepreneurs and community leaders at work, capturing images of doctors, dentists, firemen, ministers and others. His lens caught national luminaries, including Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rev. Jesse Jackson, Andrew Young, Julian Bond, Mayor Harold Washington, and Eleanor Roosevelt. His subjects also included an array of celebrities from Joe Louis, B.B. King, and Fats Domino to local starts like Peg Leg Bates.

He was a founding member of Peoples State Bank, which provide loans to underserved residents. He was an active participant in the NAACP and the Springfield Urban League. He had a long masonic lodge that began in 1933 and culminating with him attaining the highest level of 33° Sovereign Grand Commander of Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rights of Freemasonry Northern Jurisdiction. He was a founder of the Illinois Association of Minorities in Government. He was also a charter member of Frontiers International. 59 59

Photographic Legacy; Eddie Winfred “Doc” Helm, The Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum, February 23-June 9, 2012.

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Doc helm retired in October of 1992 after 58 years of service with the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office. Throughout his career, Doc Helm was the consummate professional, always dressed in a suit and tie, from sunup until bedtime. Wherever he went his camera went with him. Doc treated each photographic moment with the same professionalism, no matter who or what the subject. Photography was not just his job but his passion and he constantly strove to perfect his craft. Doc Helm passed away on January 1, 1994. 60

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Photographic Legacy; Eddie Winfred “Doc” Helm, The Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum, February 23-June 9, 2012.

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THE SPIRIT OF BLACK SPRINGFIELD (1968-1968) The Spirit of Black Springfield was established in 1968 by a group of young community activists. Some would call them militants, some would call them revolutionaries, some would call them trouble makers but all would call them steadfast steward of their community who dared to challenge the status quo. These individuals and their positions within the paper were: Irvin Jackson – Editor Charles Scott – Publisher Bill Logan - Managing Editor John Crisp – Arts and Layout Editor John Hughs – Public Relations George Wilson – Distribution Manager The “Creed of the Spirit” was as follows: “Here and now; In the midst of growing concerns about the problems of the community, within the hearts and minds of Springfield’s citizenry, “THE SPIRIT” emerges as the voice of Springfield’s Black Community. To emphasize the need for all of us to “get together” in this, our struggle. To inform our readers of our cultural heritage and accomplishments in order to instill a deeper pride in ourselves and dignity in our race. To relate to you, the events and progress of civic affairs as they take place. And to reflect the general disposition and spirit of our community. By establishing this commentary as a means of communication, we feel that we have championed on obstacle. We now must solicit and attain community wide support so we can channel our ideas, perceptions and actions into one organized structure. If we are to play any meaningful part at all in outlining our own destiny, we must be prepared to fully recognize the situations which confront us, to exert pressure where pressure needs to be applied, and be ready and able to offer possible and hopeful solutions.

It is our firm belief that through lawful, religious, educational; and intellectual practices we all can share in building a better Springfield.”

The Sprit advocated for everyone within the African American community to get unite and get involved. Let’s Get It Together” was their cry as stated in their August 1968, front page editorial entitled, DO WE CARE: Today in Springfield, can we, as black citizens, say that we are truly concerned about today’s problems? Do some of us think that our financial status excludes us from the problems of the community, while 96

others, who have become satisfied with their low income, grown weary from fighting the established system? Are we content with our jobs, income housing education? If not the time has come when the weight of community opinions and pressures should be expressed and felt. Let’s get it together.

BE CONCENED: COMMITT YOURSELF: INVOLVE YOURSELF!!!

The same cry to get the community involved was echoed in Bill Logan’s article entitled, I AM INVLOVED: I AM INVOLVED I wonder when the time will come when no Black man will be able to say, “I am not involved.” You might not be involved directly. You might not be willing to carry picket signs or participate in a march on City hall.

You might not want to speak at a Black rally, or to a white congregation.

You might not be an advocate of Black Power, or a staunch supporter of many beliefs that a lot of us share. But you are involved indirectly and many times this is the worst way.

You know it used to be that all black people were categorized as being a certain way; bad, lazy, shiftless, no good. But now only most of us fit in that category which means that there are now, in the eyes of white people, some good colored folks. These good colored folks constitute the facet of the Black community that continues this non-involvement approach. Not only has this philosophy prolonged our struggle, but it adds to the possibility of creating an all out split among Black people.

And white people are delighted. They don’t have to continue their oppression of Black people. We’ll do it for them. And this is what has driven many of our hard working young civil rights fighters to frustration. Put yourself in some of these young men’s shoes. Think how frustrating it would be to fight the white man all day at work and have to go home at night and fight your brothers and sisters .and many of our Negros have nerve enough to ask me, “What’s all this Black stuff for?” or I’ll always run across this situation , “Rap Brown is nuts, the man is crazy.” Now folks, this is a pitiful situation. I can’t help thinking how you society has helped to create the many Raps and Stokelys we have around today. Its hard to believe that we actually live in a society that produces malice, prejudice and hate. But its true. I’m not condoning the actions of Rap or any particular militant, but I understand why he does and says many things. And before you condemn, take a good look at the situation.

Take a good look at yourself. Are you inv0lved? Directly involved? Are you satisfied with the employment situation of Black people in this great model city of Springfield? Are you satisfied with the education of your children? With the recreational activities and facilities provided for them? Are you satisfied with the housing condition on our lovely eastside? If you are, I am not directing these questions to you. You need 97

assistance, other than mine. If you are not, what are you doing about them? Where do you put the blame when you know problems have not been resolved? Who is to blame for the complacency that Springfield has become surrounded with? And what excuse justifies ‘non-involvement”?

One elderly man told me “he didn’t have time.” I told him to finish the sentence he started. What he meant was: He didn’t have time to ensure his kids of a meaningful future. He didn’t have time to see that his kids were receiving a proper education and correct guidance. He didn’t have time to initiate the start of a teen center to help keep his kids off the streets. And one Saturday morning when he’s called down to (the place between 6th and 7th on Jefferson) to rescue his son, I hope he doesn’t get the same story from the judge, I don’t have time>”Do you know what time it is? It’s time to get involved. Its time to do something. If you don’t get involved on your own, somebody is going to get you involved. And that may not be a moment to your liking. Those four little black kids that died in the church bombing in Birmingham, Alabama weren’t demonstrating, they weren’t involved, but it took that shameful act to show someone that when the bomb is thrown, somebody has to die.

Whether you’re involved or not.

Sometimes I wonder how much oppression is necessary to open the eyes of our community. I wonder just what it’s going to take to realize the need for all of us to come forth and help open the doors of opportunity. I wonder when the time will come when no Black man will be able to say, “I’m not involved.”

Charles Scott - Publisher In a January 2013 interview with this writer, Spirit publisher Charles Scott, discussed the newspaper and its impact to the Springfield community.

A.C.: What motivated you to start your own newspaper?

Charles Scott: We decided that we wanted to move from watching the Civil Rights Movement from the comfort of our living rooms , and made a commitment to engage in some sort of direct-action. It was felt that the “Black Community” was long overdue for a conversation regarding “Black Life” here in the Capitol City.

A.C.: What were the biggest challenges of your work as an editor?

Charles Scott: For me I think it was gaining the respect of the “Elders”, many of whom where Pastor’s. We were well aware that many “Black Pastors “across the country saw Dr. King as a trouble maker. The mind-set here in Springfield was no different.

A.C.: What leaders, thinkers or doers do you admire most?

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Charles Scott: President Obama , Marian Wright Edelman, and Dr. John Jackson.

A.C.: What is one thing you've learned as a newspaper editor and entrepreneur that you would pass along to young people who want their careers and lives to have an impact?

Charles Scott: To study hard, work on your craft, develop a personal growth and spiritual plan and also to understand your purpose.

A.C.: As an editorialist what are the three main issues that you see as affecting progress in the Black community and what recommendations would you offer to remedy them?

Charles Scott: 1. Division between Black Churches; 2. The leadership void; 3.

Lack of strong male presence in families, schools , volunteer positions and the community; 4. Black male envy, jealousy, and mistrust. It will take a collective effort of Sister and Brothers of “ Consciousness “ and ” Spiritual” conviction, who know who and whom they are , to stand up to the risks involved in taking on that kind of “life Changing” commitment.

A.C.: Where do you see the future of the Black press heading in the next 5 years?

Charles Scott: I’m not so sure, the Black press continues to lack the ability to dig deep as it relates to Black issues, Black life. At times their focus as a group seems rather fuzzy, and ill- defined. It is hoped that they realize the sacred position they hold in our communities.

A.C.: As a black newspaper publisher/editor what legacy would you like to leave behind?

Charles Scott: Well, currently I don’t hold those positions, and haven’t for many, many years. But if for some reason I would have the opportunity to do it over, for sure it would be a legacy, of mentorship, love , passion for my people, and providing a powerful voice on those life issues that impact my people.

Charles E. Scott is currently Unit Director for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Illinois located in Springfield, Illinois. He is Founder/CEO of High Expectations a youth mentoring program for disadvantaged and at risk youth.

The Spirit of Black Springfield was a short lived but very influential newspaper that was published during perhaps one of the most turbulent years during our nation’s history and during the Civil Rights era. The events which occurred in 1968 had a tremendous impact on the social, economic and political culture of the African American community.

It was marked by the assignation of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F.

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Kennedy; rioting, anti-war protests and the re-birth of Black consciousness. following timeline exemplifies the events of that year relevant to this discussion:

The

January  January 21; Vietnam War – Battle of Khe Sanh – One of the most publicized and controversial battles of the war begins, ending on April 8th.  January 30: Vietnam War – The Tet Offensive begins, as Viet Cong forces launch a series of surprise attacks across South Vietnam.  January 31; Vietnam War – Viet Cong soldiers attack the U.S. Embassy in Saigon February 1  February 1; Vietnam War – A Viet Cong officer named Nguyen Van Len is executed by Nguyen Ngoc Loan, a South Vietnamese National Police Chief.

The event is photographed by Eddie Adams. The photo makes headlines around the world, eventually winning the 1969 Pulitzer Prize, and sways U.S. public opinion against the war.  February 8: Civil Rights Movement – A civil rights protest staged at white only bowling alley in Orangeburg, South Carolina is broken up by highway patrolmen where 3 college students are killed.  February 13; Civil Rights Movement – Civil rights disturbances occur at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  February 24; Vietnam War – The Tet Offensive is halted and South Vietnam recaptures Hue.  February 25; Vietnam War – Ha My massacre occurs.  February 27; Ex Teenagers singer Frankie Lymon is found dead from a heroin overdose in Harlem.

March  March 7; Vietnam War – The First battle of Saigon ends.  March 10-11; Vietnam War – Battle of Lima Site 85, the largest single ground combat loss of the United States Air Force members (12) during then secret war later known as the Laotian Civil War  March 12; U.S. Politics – U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson edges out antiwar candidate Eugene J. McCarthy in the New Hampshire Democratic primary, a vote which highlights the deep divisions in the country, and the party over Vietnam.  March 16; Vietnam War – My Lai massacre occurred where American troops kill scores of civilians. The story will first become public in November 1969 and will help undermine public support for the U.S. efforts in Vietnam.  March 16; U.S. Politics - U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy enters the race for the Democratic Party presidential nomination.  March 19-23; Black Power – Students at Howard University in Washington D.C., signal a new era of militant student activism on college campuses in the U.S. Students stage rallies, protests and a 5 day sit in, laying siege to the administration building, shutting down the university in 100

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protest over its ROTC program and the Vietnam War, and demanding a more Afrocentric curriculum.

March 21; Black Power - In ongoing campus unrest, Howard University students confront Gen. Lewis Hershey, then head of the U.S. Selective Service System and as he attempts to deliver an address, shout him down with cries of, “America is the Black man’s battleground.”

March 31; U.S. Politics – U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson announces he will not seek re-election.

April  April 4; Civil Rights Movement - Rev. Dr. Martin Luther king Jr. is assassinated at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. Riots erupt in major American cities lasting for several days afterwards.  April 6; Black Power - A shootout between Black panthers and Oakland police results in several arrests and deaths, including 16 year old Panther Bobby Hutton.  April 11; Civil Rights Movements – U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson signs the Civil Rights Act of 1968.  April 23-April 30; Vietnam War – Student protesters at Columbia University in New York City take over administration buildings and shut down the university.

May  May 17; Vietnam War – The Catonsville Nine enter the Selective Service offices in Catonsville, Maryland taking dozens of selective service records and burn them with napalm as a protest against the Vietnam War. June  June 5; U.S. Politics – U.S. presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy is shot at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, California by Sirhan Sirhan.

Kennedy ide the next day from the injuries.  June 8; Civil Rights Movement – James Earl Ray is arrested for the murder of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther king Jr. July  Juk23-28; Black Power - Black militants led by Fred (Ahmed) Evans engage in a fierce gunfight with police in the Glenville Shootout of Cleveland, Ohio.  July 26; Vietnam War – South Vietnamese opposition leader Truong Dinh Dzu is sentenced to 5 years hard labor for advocating the formation of a coalition government as a way to move toward an end to the war.

August  August 5-8; U.S. Politics - The Republican National Convention in Miami Beach, Florida nominates Richard Nixon for U.S. President and Spiro Agnew for Vice President.  August 21; Civil Rights Movement – The Medal of Honor is posthumously awarded to James Anderson Jr.. He is the first African American to be awarded the Medal of Honor.  August 22-30; Vietnam War - Police clash with anti-war protesters in Chicago, Illinois outside the 1968 Democratic national Convention, which 101

nominates Hubert Humphrey for U.S. President and Edmund Muskie for Vice President.

October  October 8; Vietnam War – U.S. and south Vietnamese launch Operation Sealords, a new operation in the Mekong Delta.  October 14; Vietnam War - U.S. Department of defense announces that the U.S. Army will send about 24,000 troops back to Vietnam for involuntary second tours.  October 16; Black Power – At the Mexico City Olympics, African American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos raise their arms in a black power salute after winning the gold and bronze medals in the Men’s 200 meters.  October 31; Vietnam War – U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson announces to the nation that he has ordered a complete cessation of “all air, naval and artillery bombardment of North Vietnam effective November 1st as a result of the progress of the Paris Peace Talks.

November  November 5; U.S. Politics – Republican Richard M. Nixon defeats Democrat Hubert Humphrey and Independent George C. Wallace for the U.S. presidential nomination.  November 11; Vietnam War – Operation Commando Hunt is initiated to stop the transporting of men and supplies on the Ho Chi Minh Trail though Laos into Vietnam. By end of operation 3 million tons of bombs had been dropped on Laos which slowed but did not disrupt trail operations.

December  December 22; Mao Zadong advocates that educated youth in urban China be re-educated in the country. It marks the start of the “Up to the mountains and down to the villages” movement.61 As the preceding timeline illustrates assignations, urban rioting, war, antiwar protests, anti-Jim Crowism, student protests and black militancy provided the kindling which fueled the Black Power movement in 1968. If one of these events could be considered the spark which ignited the Black Power movement it would be the assassination of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4th of that year. How do you define Black Power?

Some have defined it as a political slogan some have defined it as the ideology of achieving self-determination and Afro centric consciousness for people of African descent not only here in the United States but throughout the African Diaspora ; some describe it as the movement that empowered young and middle class African Americans birthed out of the inefficiencies of the Civil Rights Movement. Black Power, which peaked in the late 60s and early 70s, emphasized racial pride expressed in a range of social, political and economic goals for the creation of Black political and cultural institutions and promoting Black collective interests.

61

. 1968, www.wikipedia.com

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Richard Wright was the first to use the term in his 1954 book entitled, Black Power.

Stokley Carmichael, later known as Kwame Ture, was the first to use Black power as a social and; political slogan on June 16, 1966 after the shooting of James Meredith stating, “this is the twenty seventh time that I have been arrested and I ain’t going to jail no more! The only way we gonna stop them white men from whuppin’ us is to take over. What we gonna start sayin’ now is Black Power!” He later went on to state, “Black Power,” means black people coming together to form a political force and either electing representatives or forcing their representatives to speak their needs.”62 Ture was echoing the words of Frederick Douglas from his August 3, 1857 speech West India Emancipation when he stated, “those who profess to favor freedom, and yet depreciate agitation, are men who want crops without plowing up the ground. They want rain without thunder and lightning. They want the ocean without the roar of its many waters…Power concedes nothing without demand. It never did and it never will…If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” Like, Douglas who had become disheartened by the slow pace of the federal government in response to the abolitionists movement, Ture had become disheartened by the assassination of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and the slow pace of the federal government in response to the civil and political demands presented by the Civil Rights Movement.

Willis Logan, Managing Editor of the Spirit wrote the following powerful front page editorial defining the meaning of Black Power: “BLACK POWER !!!

Brothers and Sisters never before in these United States has a term been more terrifying and more misunderstood than the term “BLACK POWER.” And the irony of it all is that a lot of Negros don’t even know what Black Power means.

Well its about time you all found out.

If you ask ten people what Black power means, you would more than likely get ten different answers. Most whites tend to link this concept with the shattering of their heaven on earth. Some blacks will say that this term means the spreading of black pride and dignity. Others will tell you that it is detrimental to democracy because Black Power leans towards violence. I have even heard that 62

Stokely Carmichael, King Encyclopedia, The Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute, Stanford University, Accessed 20 November 2006.

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it is white racism in reverse. Actually Black power is the healthiest and most necessary philosophy that black people could have ever adopted. Black power is a call. A call firstly for black people to question the society we live in. A society that has exploited us economically. Suppressed us politically. Degraded us socially. And what black man can deny these facts. Black Power, secondly is a call for black people to unite; to realize that although a difference in strategy is evident, we are all standing on common ground, and our basic ideas and goals are one in the same; to define our own goals; to recognize our heritage; to lead and support our organizations; to establish a sense of community, built around love, brotherhood, and togetherness.

Right here let me say that white racism hasn’t ever been just exclusion on the basis of color, but for a very definite purpose. Maintaining subjugation. This means keeping us colored folks in our place. Now in this concept, someone must be superior to someone else. On the other hand Black Power call for an equal voice in decision making processes which affect the lives of black people. The sharing of control. No white bigoted racist can make this claim. Black Power in short is the bettering of the economical, educational, political, and social conditions existing within the black community, and any man, be he black, white or green, against these basic principles, is against me.

Action is meaningful among young people and this is why Black Power has caught on so fast with this level of our society. Black Power, uttered loudest and strongest by Rap Brown and Stokely Carmichael denotes action; NOW. And this is what is scaring the hell out of a lot of our (silently suffering , patiently waiting, good thinking) elder citizens. Action appeals to youth; Patience appeals to the rest. The argument evolves from the question. How do we get about obtaining Black Power? The answer must undergo two general considerations. What white people do in regards to correcting unjust circumstances, and what is relevant to your own personal situation. So I cannot say what coarse Black Power will run. No black man can. The action of the white community will be the determining factor. Black Power speaks to the needs of every black community and all situations are not the same, therefore, advocates of Black Power in one city might be non-violent, and similar groups in another city might resort to other tactics.

I know this article will set some people straight, but there will also be a few who will still disagree and to these I say “More power to you.”

From New York City to Los Angeles and from Chicago to Birmingham, the term Black Power resonated from protests, to the Black Power salute (with gloved fists) of Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the Mexico City Olympics; to the Black Panther Party’s stance on self-defense as a means of community empowerment; to the overall culture of ancestral awareness and unity within the African American community. Black was no longer to be used as a derogatory word that symbolized darkness, evil, menacing, bad, foul, wicked and the host of other words that it was synonymous with. Black was beautiful! You were not ashamed of who you were or what any one else thought or said 104

you were. You were black and you were proud. This is best symbolized in the song, “Say it Loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud,” by the “Godfather of Soul,” James Brown: “Say It Loud - I’m Black And I’m Proud” UH, with your bad self Say it louder (I got a mouth) Say it louder (I got a mouth) Look a’here, some people say we got a lot of malice Some say it’s a lotta nerve I say we won’t quit moving Til we get what we deserve We’ve been bucked and we’ve been scourned We’ve been treated bad, talked about As just as sure as you’re born But just as sure as it take Two eyes to make a pair, huh Brother, we can’t quit until we het our share Say it loud, I’m black and I’m proud Say it loud, I’m black and I’m proud, one more time Say it loud I’m black and I’m proud, huh Now we demand a chance to do things for ourselves We tired of beating our heads against the wall And working for someone else A look a here, One thing more I got to say right here Now, we’re people like the birds and the bees We rather die on our feet, Than keep living on our knees Say it loud, I’m black and I’m proud, hu Say it loud, I’m black and I’m proud, hu Say it loud I’m black and I’m proud, Lord’a Lord’a Lord’a Say it loud I’m black and I’m proud, oooh Uh, alright now, good Lord You know we can do the boog-a-loo 105

Now we can say we do the Funky Broadway!

Now we can do, hu Sometimes we dance, we sing and we talk You know I do like to do the camel walk Alright now, hu alright Alright now, ha Say it loud, I’m black and I’m proud Say it louder I’m black and I’m proud, let me hear ya Say it louder, I’m black and I’m proud Say it louder I’m black and I’m proud Oooow, oowee, you’re killing me, alright Uh, outa sight, alright you’re outa sight Ooowee, you’re killing me Ooowee, ooowee, ooowe, ooowee, ow Say it loud, I’m black and I’m proud Say it louder I’m black and I’m proud, let me hear ya Say it louder, I’m black and I’m proud Say it louder I’m black and I’m proud63 When discussing the above song in his 1986 autobiography Brown stated, “ it was necessary to teach pride then, and I think the song did a lot of good for a lot of people…

People called “Black and Proud” militant and angry – maybe because of the line about dying on your feet instead of living on your knees. But really, if you listen to it, it sounds like a children’s song. That’s why I had children in it, so children who heard it could grow up feeling pride…The song cost me a lot of my crossover audience. The racial makeup at my concerts was mostly black after that. I don’t regret it, though, even if it was misunderstood.” In 1972, at the request of the late Don Cornelius Brown sung the song on his first Soul Train appearance. The song is notable both as one of Brown's signature songs and as one of the most popular Black Power anthems of the 1960s. The

63

Stokely Carmichael, King Encyclopedia, The Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute, Stanford University, Accessed 20 November 2006.

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song was released as a two-part single which held the number-one spot on the R&B singles chart for six weeks, and peaked at number ten on the Billboard Hot 100.

There were other anthems of the Black Power movement such as The Staple Singers’ Respect Yourself; The Isley Brothers’ Fight The Power; Hank Ballard’s – Blackenized, and Donny Hathaway’s, To Be Young Gifted and Black just to name a few. Songs such as the temptations’ Message From A Black Man were rhythmic echoes of the voices and actions within the African American community.

"Message From A Black Man" Yes, my skin is black, But that's no reason to hold me back Why don't you think about it, Think about it, think about it, think about it, Think about it...

I have wants and desires, Just like you So move on the side 'Cause I'm comin' through, oh!

No matter how hard you try You can't stop me now No matter how hard you try You can't stop me now, oooh...

Yes, your skin is white...

Does that make you right?

Why don't you think about it, Think about it, think about it, think about it, Think about it...

This is a message A message to y'all, Together we stand, Divided we fall, oh!

Black is a color Just like white, Tell me how can a color determine whether You're wrong or right, We all have our faults...

Yes we do So look in your mirror Look in the mirror What do you see?

What do you see?

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Two eyes, Two eyes, A nose, and a mouth just like me, oh!

Your eyes are open But you refuse to see, The laws of society Were made for both you and me, Because of my color, I struggle to be free Sticks and stones, May break my bones But in the end, You're gonna' see my friend, oh!

No matter how hard you try You can't stop me now Say it loud!

No matter how hard you try You can't stop me now Say it loud!

No matter how hard you try You can't stop me now Say it!

No matter how hard you try You can't stop me now Say it loud!

No matter how hard you try You can't stop me now Say it loud!

I'm black and I'm proud!

No matter how hard you try You can't stop me now Say it loud!

I'm black and I'm proud!

No matter how hard you try You can't stop me now "Message From a Black Man" was a popular radio request in 1969, although the Temptations themselves, who thought the record too forward, never performed it live.

The message from the Black man was being heard loud and clear throughout the country …“No matter how hard you try, You can't stop me now.”

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Within this explosive movement many African Americans were coming to terms with their own ethnic identity and wanted to unshackle themselves from the descriptions and names of their oppressors such as “Negro” and “Colored.” To call oneself “Black” and not “Negro” or “Colored” was not only defining oneself for one self but it was also a symbolic expression of ones manhood, sisterhood and peoplehood. This is exemplified in the following 1968 editorial by Spirit Editor Irv Jackson: GET YOUR BLACK, NEGRO, OR COLORED “THING” TOGETHER

Before one must call themselves “Black”, he or she must do a great deal of soul searching, for to merely utter words “I am Black”, and not be fully aware and have strong convictions one can only fool the public. But as the old saying goes, “you can fool some of the people some of the time, but you can’t fool all the people all the time.’

First of all, let’s face it, we have been brainwashed, from the time of the first slave ship to our present so-called existence. Oh yes! We are still going alone saying things are getting better, They put a Negro on television and he’ll say, “Wow! Things are beautiful,” and for him, everything might truly be, but he need look no further than the studio in which the whitewash is taking place and count the black faces he sees there. Now is this to far removed from our present situation that of the home of the great white father , Abe Lincoln, the “emancipator” of us all, who believed that we should be assert free? Take a strol through your city government offices and count the number of black faces you see. Every office will boast that, oh, we have Sally Sue over here and Tom here,” token integration, and all you Negroes are eating it up.

We, as youth have waited patiently for our elder RESPONSIBLE citizens to make their contributions. It seems they were only interested in the betterment of some of those oppressed, rather than see new horizons for all Blacks, regardless of their political, cultural, educational or economic background. We youth d=fell we have waited long enough, and are not patting the white man on the back for just hiring a Negro and keeping him as a show piece. So, he can say, “look at the boy or gal we just hired”, when the question arises if they Have any Negros employed.

Our forgotten southeast side is in need of repairs, and now! Our men and women need better jobs, some that we can bring up our children to love this capitalistic country in which we live. Without the job that pays the decent salary, one’s largest concerns are to feed and shelter the family, and in many cases, it means two jobs and to many children grow up without a father or mother to mold the child for today’s high strung world.

The teens have been forgotten, they must stand around on corners, with nothing to do and nowhere to go. It would seem to me that instead of ridiculing the youth for standing on the corner, you, as responsible people, would get your 109

heads together and come up with a solution to this problem. Parents have a responsibility to demand the best education for your child, white parents do.

They have even gone as far as to start a project to have a private school. Now we may not be able at the present to have our own school, but that doesn’t mean that we have to go along with the present educational system. We need Black History, Black educators, and the dismissal of any racist, teachers or counselors. Join the PTA, and be a active member.

Let us secure more places for our aged. New high rises should have more Negros to enjoy the same privileges the whites have.

Houses in need of repairs must be demolished and new ones built, or houses with a sound foundation must be rehabilitated.

We all must get rid of hate for our brothers and sisters and concentrate on working in the field we feel we can give the most service, rather its working with NAACP, BAM, SPIRIT, or any other Black organization. Let your voice be heard!

It is easy to say, I’m Black”, but can you take the pressure? Are you able to stand up for what you know is right? Black is truly beautiful, but it is not something that comes over night, you take criticism and be able to keep your cools. For hot tempers get nothing but scorn and you are soon marked. Now, for you Negro and Colored people, well, ok, I can dig it, but remember, the world is a stage, and we are all actors, play your part and play it NOW!!

As Irv Jackson writes above, calling oneself “Black” brought with a it a responsibility for oneself, one’s family and one’s community. Today, the consensus among our people when describing oneself interchanges between “Black” and “African American.”

However, there are some who have come to believe that calling oneself Black” does not adequately describe who you are as a people. Historian John Henrik Clarke stated it best: “When you address a people by their right name that name must relate to land, history and culture. All people go back to the geography of their original origin and identify themselves no matter where they live on the face of the earth. We have over used the word “Black” because “Black” tells you how you look it don’t tell you who you are. You can call an Italian white. That don’t tell you anything about him. We are the only people who seem to have lost that all essential trait of geographical and historical reference.”64

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John Henrik Clarke, A Great and Mighty Walk

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Irvin Jackson – Editor “How do I put this tactfully? We were reactionary not strategic. We reacted to events within the community. We went after the Springfield Housing Authority Director Musgrove. “Must Grow, Must Go!,” I still remember it. It was segregated (The SHA).

There was a black section and a white section and blacks could not live in the white section. Whites were the majority. I remember we celebrated when they put the first Black family on 11th Street. This was a major thoroughfare and no Blacks were allowed to live on that street.

We also went after CWLP. We wanted to get people into various departments. Very few blacks worked in their departments. We participated in that with BAM. Rev. Shoultz had just moved from Freeport, Illinois. Cornbread attended some meeting back then.

Joe Wright came along much later. We were kids! Just really energetic and didn’t really have a clue about what we were doing but we felt it was the right thing to do!”

“I keep thinking I want to do something else. We’re going backwards everywhere. I feel like I’ve done something.”

In a January 2013 interview with this writer, Spirit publisher Jackson, discussed the newspaper and its impact to the Springfield community.

A.C.: What motivated you to start your own newspaper?

I.J.:

We wanted to advance our perspective on the Civil Rights Movement in contrast to the news reports and editorial comments made in the local print and broadcast media.

A.C.: What was the biggest challenges of your work as editor?

I.J.:

Our greatest challenge was gaining the support of Springfield’s “influential” blacks who were troubled by events (marches and riots) occurring elsewhere. We printed and circulated the first edition with little consultation from individual members of this group. This was a tactical error on our part and we quickly sought to amend the situation.

A.C.: What leaders, thinkers and doers do you admire most?

I.J:

I most admire the “doers”: teachers, social workers, public servants and others who give freely of themselves to make others’ lives a bit easier.

A.C.: What is one thing you’ve learned as a newspaper editor and entrepreneur that you would pass along to young people who want their careers and lives to have an impact?

I.J:

Love yourself and others, be humble and fearless, be a lifelong learner, be introspective and be able to appreciate the “gift” of giving to others.

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A.C.: As an editorialist, what are the three main issues that you see affecting progress in the Black community and what recommendations would you offer to remedy them?

I.J:

The three main issues I see affecting progress in the Black community are the lack of quality education, the issue of crime and punishment and the issue of internecine warfare occurring within the black community. As a remedy to these issues we need to have a collective disposal of the blinders that prevent us from acknowledging the adverse impact of slavery on current physic psyche. We need to accept the responsibility for the fact that too many of our students are not motivated to work hard in school and as a consequence end up in prison. We need to first look within ourselves and then reach out to others. We need to find and develop strategies to which we can all subscribe. Most importantly, we need to love ourselves.

A.C.: Where do you see the future of the Black press heading in the next 5 years?

I.J.:

The Black press can be a major player provided that they are willing to be active participants in the above awakening process.

A.C.: As a black newspaper publisher/editor what legacy would you like to leave behind?

I.J.:

Have courage to pursue your beliefs.

Irv Jackson was born in Jacksonville, Illinois in 1944. He graduated from Lanphier High School in 1961. “I took a few college courses but never received a degree,” he stated in a phone interview. In 2004, Jackson retired from the Springfield Urban League after thirty years of employment as both the Director of Employment/Training and the Director of Road Builders Service Project Willis Logan - Managing Editor Willis Logan’s father wanted him to work in a factory, but the Vietnam War and a trip to California during the 1960s forever altered Logan’s ambitions. He was drafted in 1965 at age 21. The Army took him to Oakland, California where the Black Panthers were very active organizing. A friend took him to meetings in people’s homes where Panthers were organizing for better housing and against police brutality. “I was really fascinated by the whole community involvement approach.” “I was inspired.”

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Left: Willis Logan. Source: The Voice of the Black Community, October 11, 1979.

He went into community work. At 53 he became the Director of the Springfield Housing Authority. He grew up on the Eastside of Springfield within view of the John Hay Homes public housing project. the John hay Homes were Built in 1941 for working families. After a change in Federal rules, working families were charged a higher rent s an impetus to have public housing house those that needed housing assistance the most. This forced out working families and left public housing projects throughout the country havens for the poor and very poor. Logan became a member of the SHA Board of Directors 1986-1991. 65 Logan served 13 months in Korea. In 1967 he returned to Springfield and married his Feitshans High School girlfriend. He worked at various jobs before launching the Spirit with Charles Scott and Irvin Jackson.

Before his death, the late Rev. Rudolph Shultz recalling Logan stated, “Bill was semiradical.” “He was very outspoken with regards to civil rights.” “Willis was one we could count on.” In 1972, Logan was appointed as Executive Director of the city’s Human Relations Commission which supported minority involvement in city contracts and investigated housing discrimination complaints. He switched from the Democratic to the Republican Party in 1978 which made local headlines. “I was questioning everything anyway.” “The republican Party in Sangamon County was offering a better alternative in terms of getting minorities involved in politics and helping create opportunities for minorities to solve their own problems.” In 1979, Logan became Director of Community Development, (replacing Harvey Henderson whom will be discussed later) the agency which relocated his ailing father months earlier as part of an urban renewal project called the Neighborhood Development Program. His father died before he took over the agency. The house Logan grew up in was on 14th and Washington in an area which was later renamed Pioneer Park as a result of the Urban Renewal Programs of the late 1970s and early 80s.66 Throughout his long and successful career in the public sector, Logan has held the following positions: Formerly, Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Specialist for the Illinois Department of Conservation; Assistant Director of Program Services for the State Department of Children and Family Services; and Executive Director of the Springfield Human Relations Commission. Also has held position with

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State Journal Register , 5/11/97 p.9c 5 Ibid 113

Illinois Office of Education, the Illinois Office of Minority Business Enterprise, the Sangamon County Community Action Agencies, and the Springfield Urban League.

Community service has included work with the Springfield-Sangamon County Regional Planning Commission, the Capital City Railroad Relocation Authority and the Springfield East Association, Member State Chamber of Commerce 200 Committee, Precinct Committeeman #23 for four years, Member Capital Township Board of Supervisors, Executive Committee Member of CEVPC, Member and past Chairman Frontiers International. Logan is also a 33° Mason in Prince Hall Affiliates Chapter of Masons and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Logan also served as Associate Director of Springfield's Progressive Movement of Youth (“PYM”), a coalition of local activists responsible for publishing The Springfield Progressive in the late sixties. The PYM established unity among Springfield activists both black and white and offered assistance to all its members in the form of a youth lobby for progressive legislation and reform. A 1968 issue of the PYM’s monthly newsletter PYM NEWS in a caption entitled, “BLACK POWER, BALLOT POWER, STUDENT POWER stated, “ ONE OF THE HIGHEST PRIORITES OF PMY is conferenced with the need for the black brothers and sisters of Springfield to get their bag together. The Associate Director of the PMY, Bill Logan, has been successful through his newspaper The SPIRIT in showing Springfield that “Soul is truly flowing--HEAVY.” Throughout Logan’s career he has been an advocate for and a target of the African American community. For example, The Madison Street project was a very temporal issue that would put a highway through part of the Eastside community. In a Spring 1983 issue of the Social Justice Reporter entitled, Urban Renewal Puts On a New Face, Logan’s allegiance was questioned: “Three years ago Bill Logan led a righteous, hell raising successful Eastside uprising against railroad relocation that would have devastated this area of the community. On November 27, 1979, Bill Logan sat silent at a public hearing on the Madison Street Highway a project that is going to do the same sort of thing to the Eastside that railroad relocation would have done. A few days later, on a local TV program, Fred Hickman asked Bill where he stood on the Madison Street project. Bill meekly responded that it has been in the planning process since 1971, that there was Cox park, buffer zones and that he “cared” about Eastside residents. He conveniently avoided answering the question. You would have thought Fred was interviewing a politician the night before election!

Has the fire gone out of Bill or has Bill gone out of the fire? How can we explain this transformation of Bill’s personality? What is the key difference now as compared to the firebrand we knew three years ago?67

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Urban Renewal Puts On A New Face, Social Justice Reporter, 1983.

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Logan attended Western Illinois university on an academic scholarship majoring in journalism. He received his B.A. Degree in Social Psychology and a Master’s in Business Administration from Sangamon State University currently known as University of Illinois at Springfield.

Appointed in April 2011, Logan is currently Executive Assistance to Springfield Mayor Mike Houston.

John Crisp – Arts and Layout Editor Left: John Crisp artist for The Spirit This is the second and only time in this book that I acknowledge someone other than an editor, publisher or owner of the black press. The first was with Winfred “Doc” Helm. The second is the acknowledgement of artist/musician John Crisp. Crisp is being mentioned because he was the artist for The Spirit. Crisp was born in Springfield, Illinois and raised in the John Hay Homes. His parents were very active in the Right: August 1968 issue of The Spirit with John Crisp’s artwork on front page. community, as well as in music and art, which inspired him to do the same. John contracted rheumatic fever at a very young age and spent two years in the hospital.

While he was in the hospital, John started drawing.

Majoring in art, John took courses at Southern Illinois University, Ohio State University, Kennedy-King College, and Malcolm X College of Chicago. He also became a musician. His first professional job was at Stevie’s Latin Village in Springfield.

“I grew up in the John Hay Homes, one of the greatest villages I ever lived in. I miss it very, very, very much today. People took care of each other; we didn’t know we were poor. I didn’t realize I was poor, until I left mama’s house, but everyone took care of each other. Everyone respected each other and when you didn’t, any elder could correct you, either with a tap on the butt or a scolding tone. But we were a musical family, and my parents were very community-active. They made sure that the young people had something to do. They gave up their home for activities for us and our friends and sacrificed quite a bit, and most parents, all parents did that. There was a party at someone’s house every weekend. There was help with homework, help with learning to do things. I had rheumatic fever at a young age. I spent almost 2 years in the hospital, and that’s when I got involved in drawing and the art of drawing, and my sisters were entertainers, and my father was an entertainer, and he 115

worked with people like Lewis Cassidy(??) and we sang and we danced,” says Crisp in an oral history interview with Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in March 2006.

He learned graphic arts and commercial illustration while working for an ad agency in Springfield. “I trained myself to do several types of art because of my interest in teaching,” he says. “I specialize in black history, and I spend a lot of time in libraries.”

Crisp says he focuses on “the art of what’s happening now,” but makes a point to teach students the basics.

The road to “the art of what’s happenin’ now” has been rocky. Crisp remembers the Old Capitol Art Fair back in 1968: “Several black artists were invited, and at the end of the first day we were invited to leave and they gave us our money back. Since that time, not one black artist participated until watercolor specialist Barbara Mason, last year.(2004).

That experience brought me to a reality: My father always told me not to get mad at an organization that has an event that because you can’t participate. Let them have their event, and, if you want to participate, get your own event — then you can do what you want to do.”

In the late ’90s, Crisp began working with the city’s mainstream arts organizations again. He helped renovate the Fifth Street home of the Prairie Art Alliance. Soon after, the Springfield Housing Authority and Springfield Art Association signed a partnership agreement that brought Crisp to SAA as a summer arts-program teacher. Crisp, estimates that over the [years], working at various clubs, churches, and District 186 schools, he has tutored more than 1,500 kids, and he considers himself as much a teacher as an artist. He has produced two books: A Taste of Black History is a coloring book with historical facts intended to educate as well as engage the artistically inclined.

His Motor Skill Dot Drawing Book teaches young people how to develop hand-eye motor skills early in the lifelong pursuit of artistic learning.68 Black Egyptians “Some things we have to do might call for force, But baby, that’s the only thing you understand” were the words spoken by Frank Smith, minister of Defense for the East St. Louis based Black Egyptians. Smith was speaking at a news conference held at the Springfield Police Department Community Relations Division.

The city of East St. Louis provided the incubator which birthed the unification black gangs such as the Black Egyptians, Black Liberators, Black Nationalists, and the Imperial War Lords. A 68

Interview with John Crisp , March 4, 2006,Interviewer: Cheryl Goza Smith

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Above: A Black Egyptian Advertisement appearing in the October 1968 issue of The Spirit. The was the only ad or image of The Black Egyptians President Edward “Cornbread” Horton that appeared in all of the issues of The Spirit. historically corrupt and white ruled city, white politician-businessmen backed by the Frank Buster Wortman, the inheritor of the Al Capone rackets in the region controlled the city through corruption and graft. By 1968, seventy percent of the city’s 68,000 population was black. A decrease from its heyday when the population was 80,000.

The decrease was due to white flight as the city’s white population fled to the suburbs of Fairview Heights, Swansea and Bellville taking with them the major businesses. “The young militant leaders had persuaded many residents that they no loner had to live under the pressure of white racism and the corrupt city government that it spawned.

The young militants provided a psychological awakening to the city’s black residents and were willing to take he steps necessary for revolution… to win and enforce what they believed was their birthright.69 “The young militants, receptive to the national black power movement and indignant about the discovery of voting fraud (voting graveyards and vacant buildings) in a mayoral election that black candidate Elmo Bush lost, eagerly listened to Stokely Carmichael when he visited East St. Louis in March 1967, and 69

Corrupt East St. Louis; Laboratory for Black Revolution, G. Louis Heath, The Progressive, October 1970.

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cheered H. Rap Brown in September. On the eve of September 10, when Brown departed East St. Louis, serious rioting began. The blacks, even the "Toms," were united in their belief that the police catalyzed the riot. Indisputable evidence — newspaper reports and photo- graphs — sustained the allegation that the police had attacked a peaceful assembly of blacks. A total holocaust was fortunately avoided; the disorder ended in three days without massive violence and destruction.”70 In 1967, after the riot the young militants organized Black Culture, Inc. and the Black Economic Union in 1968. The purpose of Black Culture, Inc. was to unify the black community and promote black solidarity, Afro-American culture and revolution. The Black Economic Union purpose was to countervail institutionalized white racism with collective Black Power and to “drive the white man from the city.” The ultimate aim was to gain control of the ghetto from its white exploitive absentee landlords and investors by applying the principles of black economic power through collective purchasing. Their most provocative strength was the utilization of their militant threats of violence with justifiable provocation.71 As previously stated, the black gangs unified themselves in an uneasy alliance in their quest for Black Power. They utilized the threat of violence combined Malcolm x’s Black Nationalism with Stokley Carmichael’s Black Power into a program for community action and self-empowerment. In 1969, the gangs were involved in the formation of Youth Organizations United which was a national coalition of street gangs which included the War Lords, the Black Egyptians, the Vice Lords from Chicago and Thugs United from New Orleans and many others.72 Seizing their momentum in East St. Louis, the Black Egyptians branched out to other Central Illinois cities such as Decatur, Illinois; Champaign, Illinois and Springfield, Illinois. At the Springfield Police Community Relations meeting, Smith denouncing poor housing, poor employment conditions, and white popliteal leaders who took advantage of the black man proclaimed, “Springfield is a sick town.” “We’re here to better this place…let me tell you brothers and sisters we’re waking up.” “ “You destroy us,” he continued before a packed house of eight different local media.

“You gave us the name “militants.” “The black people have ghettos; the white people have neighborhoods,” he said. He stated that the black people of Springfield were afraid 70

Ibid Ibid 72 Ibid 71

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to speak up because of economic conditions stating that many were told by whit employers that their jobs could be at steak if they spoke or acted out of turn. “We’re tired of these conditions…we’re tired of being treated like animals; we want to be treated like human beings…let me tell you brothers, we’re waking up.”73 Prior to Smith’s statements the press conference had a mild tone as the organizations’ purposes and local officers were introduced. After his fiery statements the press conference erupted into a emotional debate. “You took our language from us; you took our culture from us; you made us ashamed to be black,” Smith continued. A reporter at the press conference asked why were they only concerned about poor blacks and not poor whites and Smith responded, “if a white man is down its his own fault.” Another reporter scolded the first reporter for turning the press conference into a debate instead of an information gathering session. When events calmed down, Egyptian president Carl Bell explained the organization’s purpose, “we feel that the present community organizations in Springfield are not sufficient.” Bell explained. However, Issac Tweed, Minister of Information explained, “we are willing to participate in any steps to better conditions of the black man.” He pointed out that the organization had already received an invitation from the local branch of the NAACP and Rev. Rudolph Shoultz, a prominent black preacher and community advocate, who was Vice Chairman of the Urban Coalition who was also present at the press conference invited the Black Egyptians to participate in Coalition projects aimed at bettering the Black community.

The press conference was scheduled by Charles Lockhart of the Police Community Relations Division and Ed “Cornbread” Horton.74 Prior to the press conference on the September 1968 cover of the Spirit the following article appeared: “N.A.A.C.P. and BLACK EGYPTIANS PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE On Sunday, September 22, 1968, a meeting was held by the N.A.A.C.P… St. Paul A.M.E. church was where it all took place. The results of that meeting are to have a profound and significant effect on all black people in this, the capitol city of Illinois Representatives from the NAACP and the Black Egyptians met to discuss purposes, goals and viewpoints. Carl Cook, spokesman for the Black Egyptians , emphasized the need for all black people and all black organizations to “Get their Black thing together.”------- And that is exactly what happened.

Dr. Spencer concluded the meeting by thanking the brothers for coming inviting them for future meetings, and urging the different groups to work together in solving the problems of black people.

73

State Journal Register, Nov 7, 1968

74

State Journal Register, Nov 7, 1968

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“I’m with you,” Doc said upon completion. And that is the first step, Brothers and Sisters, in our struggle for FREEDOM-------JUSTICE AND EQUALITY. The officers of the Springfield Chapter were: Edward “Cornbread” Horton – President Santiago Roberts – Vice President Carl Cook – Spokesman An important issue that the Black Egyptians were advocating for change was the overwhelming stock of poor housing conditions in the African American community.

The following advertisement appeared in the Spirit: “THE LAW ABOUT YOU LANDLORD (1) Your landlord is required to keep the entire house , from roof to the ground in good repair: 1. Dangerous conditions such as … lack of heat lack of running water lack of central electricity Rats and mice (2) Your Landlord must keep up his house along with your help: 2. Your complaint: Bad plumbing Repairs needed (holes in walls, ceiling etc.)

Water leaks You must have hot water Bad sewage YOU CAN HELP US WITH YOUR COMPLAINT “THE BLACK EGYPTIANS” OF SPRINGFIELD WILL HELP YOU WITH YOUR HOUSE: SO LET US HELP! ENDORSED BY “THE BALCK EGYTPIANS” ****************** Utilizing the press the Black Egyptians were able to garner enough community support to get the attention of City Hall. In early April, 1968 Edward “Cornbread Horton had approached Mayor Nelson Howarth about the lack of jobs available for young African Americans and the lack of new industry in the city. Mayor Howarth suggested that Horton bring the issue before the full city council. The following week on April 29, 1968, Horton along with over twenty supporters and fellow Black Egyptian members met before the city council. “We’re tired of going to car washed and hotels,” said 120

Horton, indicating that these were the type of jobs available to them. “we want good jobs,” Horton continued.75 “The situation is really serious,” said James Thompson, a neighborhood worker for the Youth Commission. “We want to leave the city council chambers with the word of the city council not just the mayor,” Mrs. Jeraline Gol, a nearly blind woman, of 1921 East Cass St. had bitter words about how politicians loose interest after they are elected to office. “At election time white people will all but eat out of the same plate, but after the election they thank everyone but the dark people,” she said. “Some of my people will sell you their vote for $5 or a bottle of whiskey. But I don’t sell my vote,” she proclaimed. Mrs. Gol also told the council, “if we have to come up here and sit,’ they intended to get better jobs. She had participated in a sit-in a few weeks prior at the county public assistance office.76 Members turned their attention to Commissioner John Hunter and questioned his assertion that there were thirty Blacks working in his Department of Public Property. A 1967 survey of minority employment showed that there were 11 Blacks working in the Hunter’s Department. Hunter stated that those were union positions and “that’s a union proposition,” he said admitting that there were no Blacks in the Electric Department. Some members voiced concern of urban renewal projects were housing would be demolished and while funds were being spent on parking facilities and on the Abraham Lincoln Home area when residents needed more affordable housing.

On May 2, 1968, Mayor Howarth presented a six part plan to the city council which was to “ease Negro needs for housing and employment, including adding 50 Negroes to the city’s payroll.”77 Howarth stated that at the public meeting held the day before the City Council presented information which showed that 8.8 percent of the Black population was unemployed compared to a 3.4 for all segments of the population. Springfield’s Black population totaled 8 percent of the total population in 1968 (today the Black population is 18.5 percent of the total population) Howarth called the information, “an admission that we have a tinderbox situation in our community.” “Every employable man who desires work must have work, “ he said. Howarth stated that city departments could hire a total of eleven persons within the next year ranging from assistant librarians, police dispatcher, mechanic to a laborer. Howarth stated that no other council members have responded to his six part plan to hire fifty Black employees.

Howarth also proposed that the Association for Commence and Industry (“ACI”) and local employers increase non-government jobs from 8 percent to 10 percent. Howarth suggested that the ACI, “immediately establish and staff a specific division assigned the responsibility of encouraging proprietors of commercial and industrial establishments to reach the goal of employing Negros as 8 to 10 percent of their work force… if necessary to reach said goal take the lead in organizing and establishing industrial and adults training programs so as to qualify more Negro citizens for employment.” Another proposal was that the Illinois Department of Labor be urged to have conferences and public hearings to officially determine why there is a little or no Black representation in 75

Negros Take Job Problems To Council; Complain Of Lack of New Industry, State Journal Register, April 30, 1968 76 Ibid 77 Ibid

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most building trade unions ( a situation which currently exists in the city of Springfield forty five years later). Howarth also proposed that the Springfield Housing Authority contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to request funding for the development additional low income housing units. Afterwards in discussing his proposals with reporters Howarth stated that meetings such as that one, “adds fuel to the fire if nothing is done afterward.”

Between 1968 and 1970, the Black Egyptians either changed their name or a new organization was formed which was called the Black Spirits. The writer was unable to ascertain if the change in organization was the result of a split from the East St. Louis Black Egyptians or if there was internal strive with the Springfield Chapter of the Black Egyptians. Forty five years later, prior members of the Black Egyptians who are still living refused to comment or could not remember any details of the organization when questioned for this work.

What is known is that the Black Spirits did the same type of advocating as did the Black Egyptians and took on new members who were also very vocal on issues affecting the Black community. On March 15, 1970, The Black Spirits lead by former Black Egyptian President Edward “Cornbread” Horton along with Joseph Wright and about fifteen others picketed outside the Sangamon County Building protesting the racism in Springfield in general and the “lack of Blacks serving on juries.” Some of the signs read, “We are God’s poor but determined Black children,’ and “Black lawyers a no-no in Lincoln Land.” The group charged Springfield as being a racist town whose racism manifest itself in the lack of Black jurors. They started that there is no problem in being able to register to vote but no Blacks are picked for jurors even though voter registration lists are used to pick prospective jurors, especially when a Black person is on trial. “A black man doesn’t belong here. The white people sentence blacks, giggle about it, then ask for police protection, “said Wright. Wright stated that a Black police officer was beaten by a white man but the defendant went free. He said that he had his head beaten by a white policeman but the charge against the policeman was dropped. Horton had previously tried to get a complaint filed against the State narcotics Bureau Inspector Kenneth Metcalf with breaking and entering and theft from an unrelated incident. 78 Wright stated that Blacks face discrimination in employment because they are not qualified but blamed the schools for separating Blacks (via busing) thus making them more prone to drop out of school. Wright stated, “We want no blood shed, but we are willing to lay down our lives. We are tired of living in rates, roaches and hog pens while the rest of you live well,” wright said. When asked why they ad not taken their issue to Mayor Howarth, Wright responded, “how can we talk to him? They’ll just tell us he isn’t in.” The State’s Attorney refused to comment on the pickets or the jury selection complaint.79 The following week on March 17, 1970, The Black Spirits took their complaints before the City Council to ask why “promises” have not been kept. Wright and about six others 78 79

Pickets Protest Lack of Negroes On County Juries, State Journal Register, March 16, 1970 Pickets Protest Lack of Negroes On County Juries, State Journal Register, March 16, 1970

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reminded the council about the better housing, jobs and equal treatment in schools that had been promised to the Black community two year prior. Promises that were not kept Wright said. Wright said that he is a family man who is unemployed because, “the white man tells me that I am unqualified.” Mayor Howarth told Wright that he had tried to keep the promises as much as he possibly could repeating them to the audience but stated that he “can’t personally accomplish all those things.”80 Stating that he believes very few people oppose Blacks, Howarth stated presumptuously, “I have worked all I can but I want to work more for you. I don’t say Blacks have all the rights they should have … but as long as I’m mayor I will work for your rights.” He stated that the city’s Human Relations Commission was in the process of conducting another survey of employment of Blacks in the city and welcomed them for meetings anytime, “to work for what’s right.”81 Mrs. Gol’s assertion two years prior that “at election time white people will all but eat out of the same plate, but after the election they thank everyone but the dark people,” rings a familiar tune of the on again off again attention that the Black community receives during election time. The city of Springfield has a two term limit for its mayors giving eight consecutive years as the maximum length of time that any one person can hold the office. Mayor Howarth had just less than one year left in office. His cordial comments of willing to help “to work for what’s right” was mere rhetoric to abate adding more fuel to the fire that he had forewarned about two years earlier. In 1971, William Telford was elected mayor.

Black Action Movement In 1968, Jamaica born Dr. Rudolph S. Shoultz helped organize the Black Action Movement (“BAM”), a Springfield coalition of black community organizations founded "to create a unity aimed at strengthening the bargaining position of the Black Community so as to solve its economic, political and social problems." BAM started from the Young Adults classes at Union Baptist Church (“UBC”). Dr. Shoultz, pastor of UBC “, and Charles Young were the primary organizers.

The Board of Directors of B.A.M. were, Mrs. Cattledge, Carol Motley, Bill Logan, Mr. Tripp, Laverne Witt, Rev. Sanford, Rev. Rudolph Shoultz, and Charles Lockhart.

The BAM Purpose and By-Laws state: ARTICLE III – Membership and Voting Section A. All representatives must be black Section B. All organizations dedicated to improving the living conditions of the Black Community will be considered members unless otherwise informed by the organization.

80 81

Black Spirits Take Protest from Streets to City Council, State Journal Register, March 18, 1970 Ibid

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The rationale behind its formation was to have one organization in which all other organizations (and later individuals) could join to have one unified voice instead of having several people running around without a unified platform for the African American community. “The Black people are to be able to have some power, and this is the more reason for the organization,” as per the organization’s January 7, 1969 minutes. A question was asked at the same BAM Board meeting as to whether they would offer any type of voice about marching or militant action. The consensus of the Board was, “direct action is very much okay, but no burning --- but its really up to the community.”

The impact of BAM had grown with certain members of the Black community, some who brought their grievances before them. For example, BAM brought Mr. Charles Spender, a Springfield Housing Authority Commissioner to their January 30, 1969 Meeting at which time he detailed his protest against the actions of Mr. Musgrove in the hiring of an assistant director without the approval of the employment committee and the vote of all of the commissioners. In accordance with the rules, he and Mr. Kniss, another commissioner had called a meeting which was canceled by Mr. Musgrove because of a lack of quorum, and this turned out to be a press conference which Mr. Musgrove refused to make any statements upon his constitutional rights and the advice of his attorney. Mr. Spencer stated that his investigation of the applicants’ applications revealed two of them from the African American community both of which had higher educational qualifications employment and work histories than the person hired. BAM voted to publicize the action by direct action. To be done the following ways (1) a strong statement to the press protesting the action of Musgrove (2) paid ad-stating the facts; (3) public statement sun as letter to editor of the Journal Register; (4) picket lines; (5) hand bills. 82 The following entry from a February 16, 1969 BAM meeting minutes shows the tone and actionary posture that BAM had taken on the Musgrove matter discussed above: During a regularly scheduled meeting of BAM, Thursday January 30, action was taken to protest the illegal action of Mr. George Musgrove in hiring an assistant director, Mr. Schaive to the Springfield Housing Authority. Mr. Musgrove has taken the responsibility upon himself to select Mr. Schaive without authorization from the members of the board.

For too long Black people have ignored under-the-table actions of this sort. NO MORE. A large demonstration is planned for the upcoming housing meeting to be held on February 13. It should be perfectly clear to the entire community that the Black community of Springfield will not rest until a wrong situation ha been righted, BAM

82

Board Minutes, B.A.M., January 16, 1969

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In addition, the following letter dated march 13, 1969 was sent to the SHA Commissioners: Commissioners Springfield Housing Authority Springfield, Illinois Gentleman: A few weeks ago a matter was brought to our attention, by a then, tenant of the John Hay Homes.

We, a committee of the Black Action Movement (B.A.M.) was asked to investigate the same, Housing Project, and we are willing to share our findings with you, hopefully, that you The Commissioners, will act before we have conditions that we will not be willing to cope with.

Our findings and suggestions are as follows: I.

II.

III. IV.

The tenants are not given a voice in some of the policy makings of the Housing Authority. (a.) We are suggesting that a voluntary commission of both Black and White be established to serve as a laison between tenants and the Authority. (b.) This group will act in an advisory capacity to the Authority for the purpose of assuring and hearing complaints of the tenants.

We are suggesting that an investigating committee be formed now, to handle present conditions and present their findings in an open meeting. (a.) Why should a certain number of apartments be assigned to the Seminary Students. (b.) From reports, the present Authority is not on a “First come, First serve basis.� (c.)

Methods of rent payments for those with real and legitimate reasons for not being able to pay their rent on the due date. (d.) The unfair fines and/or eviction notices served on those persons having reasonable and legitimate excuses for late payment of rent.

We are suggesting that some provisions br provided that the working tenants be given the right to attend at least four Springfield Housing Authority meetings annually.

At this time, we feel that, for better working and community cooperation, the present director should be removed from his present position.

The foregoing statement was adopted at our regular meeting, March 13, 1969.

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Sincrely yours, Rev. DR. Rudolph S. Shoultz Dr. Charles E. Young Mr. Willie White Co-Chairman As a result of direct action from BAM and the community at large, George Musgrove was eventually removed from the SHA. Other issues that the organization was involved with included: (1) sending a committee (Mr. Tripp, Mrs. King and Rev. Shoultz) to Southeast High School to ascertain from school officials why there was fighting at the school between blacks and whites and supposedly the black children were expelled from school but no white children were expelled from school; (2) getting the Springfield Housing Authority to change its late fee policies and to allow one additional working day for the payment of rent when the 5 th of the month falls on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday and (3) getting community input on the city’s urban renewal project called the neighborhood Development Program which included relocation of residents being displaced and the development of a park and neighborhood facility within the NDP area. 83 This area became known as Pioneer Park and has been one of the most stable neighborhoods within the African American community.

As previously stated, the local NAACP branch had forged an alliance with the Black Egyptians. However, BAM did not have nor did they want such an alliance. The following as recorded in BAM’s January 30, 1969 minutes: “It was suggested that the editors of the Spirit clear up the general misunderstanding of the public that the Egyptians and the Spirit are the same. Financial responsibility for the newspaper was impossible. The recommendation that the spirit be the official voice of B.A.M. was accepted by a motion which passed unanimously.”84 BAM had a more strategic and tactical approach to addressing the needs of the African Americana community whereas the Black Egyptians or the Black Spirits were the soldiers who did the actual protesting and threatened violence if their needs were not met. The two factions need each other, however, as a result to change in political environment and the nation’s reluctance to tolerate any forms of rioting or violent outbreaks one faction out lived the other.

83

84

Board Minutes, B.A.M., January 16, 1969 Board Minutes, B.A.M., January 16, 1969

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Dr. Rudolph Shoultz Left: Dr. Rudolph Shoultz On January 15, 1968, Dr. Shoultz, became pastor at UBC. He built the church into one of the largest black congregations in Central Illinois. It had a two hour Sunday service and boasted a one hundred member choir called the Voices of Union that traveled and performed at various churches throughout central Illinois. “If the black church does not have a vital choir, it almost dries updies. I wouldn’t want to pastor a black church without a choir. I wouldn’t be going anyplace. The black clergyman takes his cue from the music. The music must be attractive to bring the people closer to him. The central point is the preaching, but the choir sings songs that relate to everyday experience,” Dr. Shoutlz stated in a 1974 article about the choir entitled, Life Blood of Church. “Music is a very vital part to religious worship. When the black man was in slavery he was not privileged to communicate with other workers, They communicated through songs. For example, if the slaves were going to have a meeting, we’re going to have a meeting they would sing. “Meeting tonight, meeting tonight, meeting at the old campground. All the boss man would hear was the song,” he continued.85 In June 1970, ground was broken for construction of a fellowship hall/educational facility and remodeling began on the 1941 sanctuary structure. Also in 1970, Dr. Shoultz opened the UBC Day Care Center and in February 1973 started a radio broadcast on WTAX-1240AM. Again, additional property east of the church to the corner of 15th and Monroe Streets was purchased for off-street parking. A playground was added and all additions were paid off and dedicated on November 5, 1979. In addition, in a little over nine years UBC paid off the two hundred fifty thousand dollar loan for the Educational Building originally set up for a 20-year mortgage. The mortgage was burned in 1982. In 1987, through the efforts of Dr. Shoultz, UBC was able to spread the good news of the Gospel in his native land of Jamaica, West Indies. In 1988, the Soup Kitchen Ministry began which evolved into a food pantry. On March 10, 1991 the church through a partnership with Boston Capital Investors built a twenty-four (24) unit Senior Citizen low-rise apartment complex called Union Baptist Plaza. Dr. Shoultz advocated “faith based community building” long before the term became popular in the 1990s and the first decade of the 21st century.

85

Lifeblood of Church, Aiken Standard, 8/21/74

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On January 1, 1976, he was one of three speakers for the first Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast which was in its thirty seventh year at the time of this writing. The other two speakers were Rev. Bishop Joseph McNocholas and Rabbi Barry A. Marks In 1987, when a federal judge ruled in favor of the Plaintiffs in the Voting Rights Suit, Dr. Shoultz stated, “. ''This is a major decision that will help the entire community. Not just the black community, but the entire community.'' 86 An active civic leader, Dr. Shoultz served on many Boards of Directors and Commissions such as being a Board Member of the Illinois Housing Development Authority, member of the Illinois Human Rights Commission, which adjudicates charges of civil rights violations in employment, housing, public accommodations and financial credit filed with the Department of Human Rights, member of the Children and Family Services Advisory Council (1979) to name a few.

Dr. Shoultz was an avid community organizer, activist, mediator of disputes. In addition, he was an avid writer and a contributor to the local Black Press. He has an article in this work in the November 1972 issue of Springfield’s Voice’s Pastor’s Corner untilled that discusses the “so called new breed of young Blacks, who are denouncing the Church.”

Dr. Shoultz died on March 3, 2000 On May 8, 2000 U.S. Congressman John Shimkus read the following tribute to Dr. Shoultz on the floor of the House of Representatives “IN MEMORY OF REVEREND RUDOLPH S. SHOULTZ ____ HON. JOHN SHIMKUS of Illinois in the house of representatives Monday, May 8, 2000 Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, I share an article from the March, 2000 issue of the Pure News, published in Springfield, Illinois, by T.C. Christian.

But He Tried To Help Somebody (By T.C. Christian, Jr.) 86 Judge Rules Against City in Voting Rights Challenge, State Journal Register, Jan. 13, 1987

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It would be wonderful if I could remember and name all the wonderful people who have made a difference in my life, but that just can not be done. Part of the problem is that there have been too many to count and no matter how good my intentions may be, somebody would undoubtedly be missed.

However, death has a way of refreshening our memory by placing yesterday's faces, deeds and conversations on a giant screen where we can all watch the previews at the same time. Such was the case in hearing about the death of Reverend Rudolph S. Shoultz, pastor of the Union Baptist Church in Springfield, Illinois. His death refreshened my memory that life is but a book, sometimes a short story, sometimes several chapters, sometimes a happy beginning and sometimes a sad ending.

After reading and listening to all the different tributes paid to this man whom some even called the ``Godfather,'' a stranger would have to conclude that ``this preacher must have helped somebody.''

In one chapter of the ``Life of Reverend Rudolph S. Shoultz,'' somebody called him a civil rights leader who fought in the trenches, another writer said he not only fed his members with religion but fed them with state jobs, one minister said the good Reverend adopted him as his son and just before we get to the final chapter, there was recognition of the awards he received and how he provided housing for senior citizens.

In reminiscing about yesterday, I decided to review another book yet to be published. This book's title is ``The Life of T.C. Christian, Jr.'' This book contains several chapters about Reverend Shoultz. In chapter one, the author (yours truly, of course) is introduced to the Reverend and a friendship develops. In another chapter, which was written and dated November, 1983, Reverend Shoultz appears on the front page of the very first issue of The Pure News. Also in that chapter, the author describes how Reverend Shoultz provided personal assistance to help maintain the existence of the newspaper you're now reading.

The chapter in the middle of the book describes the wedding of the author which was also performed by Reverend Shoultz. And in telling it like it is,'' in that same chapter (as a result of the Reverend's political connections) the author's newly wedded bride was soon to be employed in the Governor's office.

And incidentally, we did not agree on everything which gives credence to a statement made by one minister during the funeral

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when he said, If two people think just alike, one of them is not necessary.''

Reverend Rudolph S. Shoultz, who died on March 3, 2000 at the age of 81, was a living legend. Perhaps his legacy can best be remembered as a preacher who was always trying to help somebody.87 “On the subject of Black Power, America in the King Years by Taylor Branch hews closely to the conventional script and the received historical and political wisdom that casts the movement as politically naïve, largely ineffectual, and ultimately stillborn.

Black Power is most often remembered as the civil rights era’s ruthless twin, and evil doppelganger that provoked a white backlash, engaged in thoughtless acts of violence and rampaging sexism and misogyny, and was brought to an end by its own self destructive rage. A wave of new historical scholarship, however, is challenging this perspective, arguing that Black Power ultimately redefined black identity and American society even as it scandalized much of the nation. These new works combine critical analysis and prodigious archival research to historize the Black power era and its relationship to civil rights and wider currents of postwar American society.”88 “Black Power transformed struggles for racial justice by altering notions of identity, citizenship, and democracy. Its practical legacies can be seen in the first generation of black urban political leaders who, thanks to the Voting Rights Act of 1965, leveraged black voting power through nationalist appeals for racial solidarity in major metropolitan centers; in the cultural impact of the black arts through poetry, the spoken word, independent, independent schools, and dance, theater, and art; in the advent of Black studies programs and departments ay predominately white universities across the United States; in the proliferation of black student unions on college campuses; and finally, in a series of political conventions and conferences that crafted domestic and international agendas for racial, social and economic justice. The sheer breadth of the movement during the 1960s and early 1970s encompassed virtually every facet of American political life in the United States and touched the international arena as well.

Black sharecroppers in Lowndes County, Alabama, urban militants in Harlem, radical trade unionists in Detroit, Black Panthers in Oakland, California, and feminists across America all advocated a political program rooted in aspects of Black Power ideology. A broad range of students, intellectuals, poets, artists, and politicians followed suit, turning the term “Black Power” into a generational touchstone that evoked hope and anger, despair and determination.89

87

Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 55 (Monday, May 8, 2000 Peniel E. Joseph, The Black Power Movement, Democracy, and America in the King Years, American Historical Review 89 Peniel E. Joseph, The Black Power Movement, Democracy, and America in the King Years, American Historical Review 88

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The election and re-election of Barack Obama as President of the United States which garnered 97% of the African American vote can be attributed to the leveraging of their voting power and racial political solidarity both of which were birthed during the Black Power movement. In addition, spoke word, rap music, the Hip Hop culture which has gone mainstream, Head Start, school breakfasts and charter schools have their foundation in the Black Power movement.

The Sprit was sold within one year of operation to Mr. Horace Livingston of Decatur.

Mr. Livingston changed the name of the paper to the African American Voice and later to The Voice of the Black Community.

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SPRINGFIELD’S VOICE (1973-PRESENT) Left: Mr. William Washington, Source: State Journal Register, Chris Covantis Springfield’s Voice newspaper was founded in 1972 by William Washington. Springfield’s Voice is a bi-monthly paper that features coverage politics, black organizations, churches and businesses within the African American community.

It’s current editor is Mr. Washington. Previous editors have been Ken McNeil and Virgil Rhodes. Its offices are located at 601 South Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Springfield, Illinois.

The annual subscription cost is $5.00.

Born and raised in a large family with five brothers and five sisters on Mason Street, a primarily African American street, in Springfield, Illinois. “the next street over was an all-white street, so we were pretty close together. We went to the same school. We went to what we called Palmer Grade School then,” says Mr. Washington. In 1941, the John Hay Homes public housing project was built surrounding Palmer School. In 1997, after it was proven across the country that high density public housing projects were segregated colonies of crime havens and immense poverty, the John hay Homes were demolished. On April 2004, Mr. Washington gave an oral interview as part of the University of Illinois at Springfield’s Oral History Project. He was interviewed by Willie Mitchell. Part of that interview follows.

When asked if the Black community back then was different from the Black community today, Mr. Washington stated, “I was there before the project. Before the project, that was where basically most black folks lived; and they called that the Bad Lands. They were old houses; most of the businesses and most of the churches were sitting in a – in a radius of about six blocks,” says Mr. Washington. “Cause everything was there. They were shacks…and next to that was groceries, stores, churches, and all that sort of – like a community. That was a nickname they’d given it; they called it the Bad Lands. And it stayed that way until – till the government came in again – and I can’t think now what their program was, but anyway, they built the project – housing projects there; they took the place over. Tore all the houses down; moved the churches. Where the churches are now – the Union Baptist Church sits over on 14th and Monroe Street – well it was sitting on 14th and Mason. St. John’s was sitting in that same area. St. Paul AME Church – all the churches in that general area. When they tore down all that – all the houses Left: Mr. William Washington, Source: State Journal Register, Chris Covantis there, 132

they moved all the churches and all the businesses out of that area, until they got it built up. And most of them stayed where they were.”90 Right: Mr. William Washington, Source: State Journal Register “In Springfield, we had what we called a mixture – you know, like if – see now, when – when you talk about a black community, you’re talking about where the cream has been taken off. Everybody that goes to school, or goes – or gets a good education, moves out. And the only persons you find in a black community are those that can’t get out, don’t have the jobs. This is the reason you have the dope and stuff too, see, cause that’s the only thing that they can do, and that’s the only thing they know. And Springfield was a community where some people that – that left out of this community – families – they went on to be doctors and lawyers, and everything else; but they left. But when I was growing up, they were all here – see. Then they decided that – you know, most of them went away to school, cause we didn’t have a four-year college here; what we had was a junior college, which they called the Springfield Junior College [currently called Benedictine University].” 91 “And so, you know, you had to go somewhere if you wanted to get a four-year education; so most blacks that amounted to anything, that had a good education, went on. They didn’t come back. And then, later on, some of these that didn’t go on, that got – got a high school education and maybe some college; they’d work for the state – places like that. They no longer lived in the black community. Now you find this all over – everywhere. They no longer live in the black community. They moved out into – in Springfield, they moved out west, or further out southeast. My own children, you know.

Because this is where they didn’t want to be. This is where all the trouble comes from.

But you see, I blame it on those people that moved out of this neighborhood. I never did – I’ve been living in this same neighborhood now, married, for over forty-five years. If more of them had done that – you see, a person’s got to have somebody that they could at least look to see what they’re doing. If you’re living next door to a – to a boy who is – or to a family where the father works for the state, the mother’s a schoolteacher – this inspires you to do something. But if you live next door to a drug dealer, and a drunkard – then this is what you expect. And when you come outside to play, and you see five or ten fellows standing on a corner selling drugs, that’s what you want to be – cause that’s where they’re making the money. And nobody else is working. Another thing too, is the school is the same way. Most of these – most – this is after I got grown up – and most of these kids nowadays, they really don’t have any peer group, or no family group to look to. The family is doing what these people are doing in the streets. So this is what they 90

William H. Washington Oral History, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Libraryhttp://www2.illinois.gov/alplm/library/collections/oralhistory/AfricanAmericanHistory 91 Ibid

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think is – is – is – you know, that’s – everybody’s doing that. I’ve had – had kids come into this place, and I’d ask them: How come you’re not in school? They’d say: Well, they Left: Mr. William Washington, Source: State Journal Register, Chris Covantis – this is an old story – you know, Moms don’t get them up, so they don’t go to school. And sooner or later, they drop out. And don’t blame it on Springfield, because this happens all over the United States. Okay.” 92 Next, Mr. Washington was asked what inspired him to start the Springfield’s Voice, he answered, “well, because every time I wrote a letter to the editor of the Journal Register, you know they’d change the words around, and make it to suit their purpose – oh, they did that stuff, back in those days, like that. So I just said, well, I’m going to – I’m going to start a paper, and say what I have to say. I did it mostly for the editorial; and I used to write a lot of good editorials – to say what I have to say, and nobody can change my words, or nothing like that. And I’ve been putting that paper out – I’m still putting that paper out – for thirty-one years. And in 1972 or three, I couldn’t even get that paper printed here in town. See, the Journal wouldn’t do it. But I – but I could understand their part, you know, because they were a daily paper, and they had business of their own, and so they didn’t have time; you know they couldn’t fool with me, with the paper. But they had what they called – I think it was the Springfield Sun, and it was a weekly paper; and they had these big web presses, and they’d just sit from one week to the next, you know. And so I thought – you know, they’d make a chance to make some little money on their press – they really didn’t want nothing to do with it.” When asked why did he think this happened, Mr. Washington responded, “Beats me. I guess it’s probably because I was a black man; they didn’t want nothing to do with me. Then I went around to the – to the individual press companies, like Williamson’s Press, and – but then it would have – see, if you don’t have what they call a web press, 92

Ibid

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Left: Mr. Washington, A Living Legend, Illinois VOICE, July 2010 then it becomes expensive when you’re doing this stuff sheet-by-sheet and handby-hand; and most of these – these general press companies around town, that’s the way they do it; and it would be – the cost would be prohibitive. So I had to go and search around the state, to see where I could find somebody that had a set-up. I found a place in Astoria, Illinois.

This guy did papers for just about any – see you wonder about how these other little towns, like Auburn and Chatham, and all these little towns – you know they have these little newspapers too – how could they afford it, if they had to do – But they took this same – see I’m just – I was – nobody ever told me that, I just had to go inquire till I found out for myself. This man, he made a business out of doing all these small papers. He had a plant in Astoria, Illinois.”

Mr. Washington was asked about the topics that he wrote about when he started the paper and he told the interviewer, “Well, most of them were personal things, like I’d write a letter to the editor – like one time I went to – to see about a job at the A & P, that was a grocery store – a big supermarket – as big as it was back in them days, it wasn’t as big as these things now, but you know, it was big enough; and they give you a test. And I think I made like a hundred and twenty on the test, and you had to have a hundred to pass. And it was for like bagging groceries, and stuff like that. And I never got a word – a peep out of them – no way.

I wouldn’t write about no politics, or anything – policies, or nothing like that. But then when I started in, I started in on – most of the things that I wrote when I started my newspaper was about the black community as a whole, like ministers and everybody else that wasn’t doing what they were supposed to be doing.”

“Hand. Started out by hand. I – when I really first started, I had little newsboys, and all of that rigmarole, and I sent them out. Once a week, we’d go; and I’d take a bunch of them over to the project, and we’d run through the project – which was about – I guess there’s probably about two or three thousand people lived in the project then; and we just swooped through the project, selling them – twenty-five cents a piece. And they’d make some money, and then I wasn’t that much interested in making money, because I had a job – I had two jobs when I was doing that, see. But it was just – you know, get the thing done – and I made a lot of enemies too, back in them days, because I didn’t spare any feelings, cause most of them weren’t doing what they were supposed to be doing 135

anyway,” Mr. Washington answered when asked how he distributed the paper when he first started it.

When the interviewer asked Mr. Washington if he had wrote everything himself or if he had any assistance, Mr. Washington stated,” Oh yes. Remember I told you I was – I had two years of college. I probably would have – I probably should have been something else, but see, I got married as soon as I got out of Springfield Junior College. There was no college here, and I had to get a job to support my family; so that was the end of that.

And all my other brothers had degrees, you know – because they didn’t stay here. I was the only brother that stayed in Springfield. (laughs) But my mother was here; that’s the reason why – I had to look after her; my father died, so – that was one of the reasons why I stayed.”93 Mr. Washington believes that one of the problems on the East side is that parents do not place enough emphasis on the education of their children. In early 1990, Mr. Washington had doubted the Springfield School District’s claim that student test scores were better than the national norm. “I want their test scores. What if all the blacks are on the low end of the average? Parents have got to know, first thing, how their students are doing. If I can get the test scores maybe it will spark (parents) into doing something.

There are parents who don’t know anything about what’s going on in the schools. I’m blaming black parents for that,” he firmly stated.94 He also had reservation about the benefits of busing students to schools because it created segregated classes where black students were put in remedial classes. “I sincerely believed in busing because I thought it was worth it. If they’re transporting these kids across town and they’re not doing as well, it’s not worth it. A lot of blacks haven’t gone for that idea, though.”95 Mr. Washington has stayed away being designating his paper as Republican or Democrat as many African American papers had done in the past and abstains from endorsing candidates. “Unless it’s a major black candidate running for a Springfield office, I don’t want anybody saying the paper is Democrat or Republican.”96 “The biggest thing that needs to be done is more jobs for the black side of town. Most jobs, we’re not qualified for because they went to schools that didn’t teach them anything. When I worked for Community Action Agency, I was trying to get a boy a job.

He could not fill out the application. He just could not read. We’re not looking for fancy jobs, just jobs you can make a living at.97

93

Ibid State Journal Register 95 Ibid 96 Ibid 97 Ibid 94

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Like so many of his predecessors Mr. Washington does not believe in hand outs and believes that the African American community must come together like fingers in a fist to fight injustice and racism. He also advocates like his predecessors that the Black press plays an integral part of the African American community and that the Black

Above: Mr. William Washington, Source: VOICE Magazine, July, 2010 137

Like so many of his predecessors Mr. Washington does not believe in hand outs and believes that the African American community must come together like fingers in a fist to fight injustice and racism. He also advocates like his predecessors that the Black press plays an integral part of the African American community and that the Black community should support the press and use it as a vehicle in their fight against injustice and inequality.

“HELPING EACH OTHER “We in the Black Community have made some great strives since 1954.

We are becoming more and more a binding sort of community with a rising pride in Blackness. This community is a form of togetherness; we are being made more aware of our brothers.

A community is nothing unless there is some form of communication network. How strong a community becomes and the shape and strength it takes depends a great deal on the extent of its communications channels. Everything that we do depends upon our awareness of our surroundings. Black people must have this awareness, this channel, in order to plug into and get the information and energy they need to grow and achieve their purposes.

We are all aware of the white owned media that slants and distorts and penetrates Black minds. We must have something to neutralize this. We must come face to face with ourselves and realize our short comings up till now in the area of politics., local government, organization and even Black culture to name a few.

This is where we the “Springfield’s Voice” come in. We can strengthen, up lift, educate, advise, we can share this love for our Black culture, our African American History, as we grow together. We can come to realize the position that we can push ourselves into this modern scientific world.

We cannot possibly begin this journey of education, strengthening, changing or revealing without your co-operation. You must be aware of your importance in the support of this news media.

The Black community should buy, read and criticize this newspaper.

They should write letters to the editors, hold conferences with editors and use personal and organizational contacts to increase the amount of relevant information in this newspaper. But in order for the newspaper to change and grow, we must first exist. This means that it is necessary for Black readers to give us, your voice in Springfield, the advertising and circulation strength we need to be able to function as the strong right arm of the Black community.

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We make this commitment to Black liberation, to the uplifting of the Black culture, to self-determination of the Black community. To achieve the end results of our labor we must first realize our responsibilities to each other and then join hands as we lift each other up.

“Time and time and again, my family has asked me to quit. I can do that. Once I get started on something. I go to the finish. Especially if I’m doing the right thing,” he said.

As previously stated, Rev. Rudolph Shoultz was a regular contributor to the city’s Black press. Below is an article the November 1972 issue of Springfield’s Voice. In the article Rev. Shoultz is chastising what he called the “New Breed of Young Blacks” for asserting the Church was not relevant anymore and for not wanting to worship a Christ with long blond hair and blue eyes.

“PASTOR’S CORNER We, today, have come across a so-called new breed of Young Blacks, who are denouncing the Church, and using two basic reasons for their denouncement, (1) The Church is not relevant to today’s society, (2) “The Christ we worship is a long hair, blond with blue eyes.”

If you will permit me, I would like to address myself to these two items mentioned and surely, some will disagreed with this theory.

First, as the writer has said many times, the word “relevant” is an overworked word, because the Church is made up of people, and the people dictate the policies of the Church, the writer regards most young blacks, using this as a means of “Coping-Out,” it is so easy to stay on the sidelines and criticize than to participate where our voices can be heard or where changes can be made. If the Church is not in keeping without changing world or society, who is to blame? The older citizens, who have given the Church its staying power, still maintains its presence in today’s society, yet they are being looked upon as a group not responding to the needs.

These people have worked hard, building many of our Black schools of Higher Learning and 95% of present Churches in our society, which they have supported and still support, yet, when something for the betterment comes up, these same persons who criticize the Church are the first to seek its assistance.

How long would it last if the voice and support, of the Church were depending upon these Young Blacks?

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Therefore, the writer disagrees with the fact that the Church is not responding to the need of today’s society, instead, it would mean that the Young Blacks are not responding to the needs.

The second phase is that “the Christ we worship is a long hair, blond with blue eyes.” No one has ever seen a picture of Christ, He died, according to historians, in 33 A,D. and no picture has appeared anyplace of him, that is known, if the Blacks are talking about Leonardo Da Vinci’s picture or painting as a true picture of Christ and are turned off, because they should be intelligent enough t that da Vinci was born about 1450 and died 1519 and the Christ we worship had long died, was resurrected and ascended unto heaven.

So, you see, my young black brothers and sisters, we know that this was the imagination of one man from Italy, saying that Christ looked to him, this way and that is not the Christ we, in Black Churches, worship.

As a matter of fact, we worship Christ because we believe in, who He was, what He says and what He did for all men, black, white or whatever his color maybe.

He has “turned us on” so that we may become responsive to human needs, He has “turned us on” to a life of usefulness, and we hope and pray that you will not have these “hang ups” only, because it is so easy to stay on the sideline and criticize, but you, too, will become responsive to those around you or as He once said, “Loving of thy neighbor.”

In the above editorial Rev. Shoultz was chastising the “new breed of Young Blacks” whom he saw were denouncing the effectiveness of the church as well as abolishing their belief in God. Some of these young revolutionaries like the Black Panthers and the Black Egyptians Maoists had adopted anti-religious beliefs based on Marxist doctrine. In 1844, Karl Marx wrote that religion had been used by the ruling classes to give the working classes false hope of a better life in the hear after stating, “Religion is the sigh of the oppressed creature, the heart of a heartless world, and the soul of the soulless conditions. It is the opium of the people.” 98 Some of these new breed of Young Blacks were followers of Malcolm X and his teachings. Malcolm X’s teaching were based on Elijah Muhammad’s doctrine that Islam was the true religion of the Black man and that the white society had used Christianity

98

Reader in Marxist Philosophy by Howard Selsam, Harry Martel (1987),p224

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to enslave Africans both mentally and spiritually. In his autobiography Malcolm X wrote: “The greatest miracle Christianity has achieved in America is that the black man in white Christian hands has not grown violent. It is a miracle that 22 million black people have not risen up against their oppressors – in which they would have been justified by all moral criteria, and even by the democratic tradition! It is a miracle that a nation of black people has so fervently continued to believe in a turn-the-other-cheek and heavenfor-you-after-you-die philosophy! It is a miracle that the American black people have remained a peaceful people, while catching all the centuries of hell that they have caught, here in white man’s heaven! The miracle is that the white man’s puppet Negro “leaders”, his preachers and educated Negros laden with degrees, and others who have been allowed to wax fat off their black poor brothers, have been able to hold the black masses quiet until now.” 99 Others of these new breed of Young Blacks were African Spiritualist and believed that Christianity was a religion forged by Europeans to as a means to maintain power and control over the masses. This is best exeplified by the following statement from the late historical scholar Professor John Henrik Clarke: “The Roman Empire internally was not very rich. Africa became the breadbasket for the Roman Empire and except for Africa the Roman Empire would not have been able to sustain itself. The roman presence in North Africa is going to force into being one of the great events in human history. Roman taxation and Roman oppression would cause people to turn to new gods and question old gods. To turn to a story about a god who comes forth to rescue them. They would draw from African folklore the story of a child in the manger. Later in retrospect he was referred to as Jesus Christ. You can argue about the colorazition of Christ if you want to but I can settle that very quickly and we can go onto the next subject. Was he a Roman? The answer is no. Was he a Greek? The answer is no. These were the only European types in that part of the world at that time. If he was neither Roman or Greek he was one of those other people. And all of those other people were not European and nonwhite. And he came from the other people. (During that time of Roman dominance, Africans held high military and administrative posts in the empire) The Roman and Greeks had no color prejudices comparable to the kind of prejudice we would know later on otherwise why would three Africans become Emperors of Rome/ Why would there be three African popes. Finally, Constantine decided to make Christianity the religion of the whole of the Roman Empire. Now we’re coming to the critical period whe the Roman domination of the Church was so corrupted African began some disenchantment with the Roman interpretation of 99

Malcolm X, The Autobiography of Malcolm X

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Christianity. Constantine calls a council of bishops and priests at a place called Nicaea. The “Concilium Niccaem” or Nicean Conference (325 A.D.). It is at this conference that the Europeans created a European concept of Christianity. It was at this conference that they began to take the African Saints out of the literature of Christianity. The corruption had started. The physical concept of Jesus Christ did not exist. Now how did it come into existence? Because the pope commissioned it to come into existence. Michael Angelo painted the picture using one of his relatives as a model and that picture, one of the finest propaganda ever in history has changed the minds of millions of people as whose supposed to represent God whoever he or she may be and I have no problem with the she. Spirituality is a way of accepting the fact that there exists a spiritual force in the universe larger than all mankind. And when you accept the spiritual image of another people you become the spiritual prisoner of that people.” 100 In a January 7, 1969 BAM Board meeting Rev. Shoultz stated that the must be some way to reach the people other than the churches, because so many people do not attend any church.

The Voting Rights Suit On April 2, 1985, Mr. Washington was an original plaintiff in Frank McNeil, et al vs. City of Springfield, Illinois, et al. 658 F.Spp. 1015 (1987) commonly referred to as The Voting Rights suit. The other plaintiffs were Frank McNeil, Rudy Davenport, Archie Lawrence and Howard Veal. McNeil was a Legislative Parliamentarian and County Board Member; Davenport was an auditor with the State Department of Rehabilitation Services; and Archie Lawrence was an attorney. The defendants were the then mayor J. Michael Houston and the four Commissioners Frank Madonia, James Norris, Ossie Langfelder and J. Patrick Ward. The was a class action suit in which the African American citizens of Springfield above the age of eighteen sought remedies for violations of their civil rights (Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965). “Specifically, the plaintiffs claim[ed] that the structure of the government of the City of Springfield, Illinois, results in a denial or abridgement of the plaintiffs’’ right to vote on the account of race or circumstances, the political process leading to nomination or election in the City of Springfield, Illinois, are not equally open to participation by the plaintiffs because the plaintiffs have less opportunity than other members of the electorate to participate in the political process and to elect representatives of their choice.”101 In essence the elected officials of the City of Springfield were white and had been historically white. One reason being the direct result of the Commissioner form of government which disenfranchised the African American community. The federal courts had been used in many cities and counties throughout the country primarily in 100 101

John Henrik Clarke, A Great and Mighty Walk Frank McNeil, et al vs. City of Springfield, Illinois, et al. 658 F.Spp. 1015 (1987)

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the South to replace at large municipal elections with mayor/aldermanic forms of government. In 1985, according to Larry Menefee, an Alabama attorney who had been involved in twenty cases challenging at large elections. “I don’t think we lost any,” he said. “You look at the plaintiff’s point and its not difficult to prove,” stated Tuscaloosa city attorney Robert Ennis. Tuscaloosa unlike the city of Springfield decided to settle Ennis’ client’s suit without a fight. “Most of the cases filed in the South have paralleled the situation in Springfield. They involved governmental units –usually cities of counties---where members of the government bodies are elected at-large, In almost all of those cases, blacks represent a voting minority, and black candidates have never been elected to office in at-large elections.”102 Nine factors are looked at by the Federal court including if there exists a history of racial discrimination, the effects of discrimination in employment and racial polarization of the vote. Since Springfield had adopted the commission form of government in 1911, no African American had been elected to the city council. Some claimed that because some African Americans had been elected to the school board that would suffice to prove that they could win at large elections. Menefee disagreed and stated that this was not enough of a defense. McNeil state that the school board elections were irrelevant because, “the school board lacks any substantial power in the power structure.” “This is not a black versus white issue. We’re talking about representing all areas of the city.

There is no one on the council from the north side. There is no one from the southeast side. I think the point of it is to have a voice on the city council,” continued McNeil. 103 The Voting Rights Suit attracted national attention including the Reverend Jesse Jackson and his Rainbow Coalition. Rev. Jackson’s Rainbow Coalition included blacks, whites, rich, poor and eventually famers. In a visit to Springfield in October 1985, Jackson stated, “we are going to stand with the people in the community to end the at large scheme. The Rainbow Coalition is going to offer them legal help. They’re going to connect them with the people in other cities that have won suits against at large elections.” In Johannesburg, there are no blacks on the city council. In Springfield, there are no blacks on the city council. In Johannesburg there are no blacks on the school board. In Springfield, there are no blacks on the school board. If the oppressed can fight back in South Africa, they must fight back in “south Illinois. We must fight for an end to at-large elections,” continued Jackson. 104 On May 12, 1987 a referendum on the question of which form of government was to be created in Springfield was held in which 63 percent of the population favored selecting the mayor/aldermanic form of government. A similar referendum was held in November 1986 which had the same results.

In May 16, 1987, the Federal Court ruled in favor of the plaintiffs and ordered that,” “Consistent with state law and policy, the City of Springfield is hereafter, and until such time as there is a valid modification adopted in 102

Blacks’ Lawsuit Likely to Change Way City Council is Elected, State Journal Register, April 14, 1985 Blacks’ Lawsuit Likely to Change Way City Council is Elected, State Journal Register, April 14, 1985 104 We Must Fight For an End To At Large Elections, The Pure News, Vol 3, No. 11, November 1985, p. 1 103

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accordance with either the laws of the State of Illinois or the Constitution of the State of Illinois, to be governed by Article 3 of the Illinois Municipal Code with only these exceptions.

One person (designated ward representative) shall be elected from each of the 10 districts (now designated wards) by the map submitted by the City and approved by this Court on march 30, 1987. The election of the mayor, City Clerk, City Treasurer and Ward Representatives shall be conducted on a nonpartisan basis and otherwise shall be conducted as required by state law.

105

The Court ordered a smooth transition of government from the commissioner form to the mayor/aldermanic form of government. In December, 1987, McNeil was sworn in as Alderman for Ward 2, a predominantly African American ward. Also sworn in was another African American named Alan Woodson, who was elected from the predominantly white Ward 10. “This was the intention and this was the goal, to have a black man standing here to be sworn in to Springfield’s government, McNeil said after the ceremony. “Springfield …is now ready to recognize that black men do have the ability and foresight and everything it takes to represent the city.” “When people disregard color and race and those kinds of things, then the city is going to have a better, more representative government, and that will be a benefit to the entire community,” stated Woodson after the ceremony.106 The city spent over $2 million defending the commissioner form of government which included $701,000 paid to the plaintiffs’ attorneys.

In 2007, Gail Simpson was elected as Alderwoman for Ward 2 replacing McNeil who couldn’t run because of term limits. She was also the first African American female alderperson. Subsequently, in 2011 Sangamon County Board Member Doris Turner was elected Alderperson for Ward 3, becoming the second African American female alderperson in the city’s history.

The Voting Rights Suit was just one of many issues advocated by Mr. Washington throughout his entire life for the advancement of African Americans in all walks of life.

Still today at age 86, Mr. Washington has been very active in his church and leads the male choir The Harmonizers. He delivers nutritional meals to the elderly via the Meals on Wheels Program.

On June 13, 2010 Grace United Methodist Church honored Mr. William Washington for his outstanding service to the community recognizing him as “A Living Legend.” In June 2010, Illinois Voice recognized June 2010 as “Mr. William Washington Month.”

105 106

Frank McNeil, et al vs. City of Springfield, Illinois, et al. 658 F.Spp. 1015 (1987) Black Alderman Sedate In Last Act of Voting Rights battle, Associated Press, December 1, 1987.

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VOICE OF THE BLACK COMMUNITY - SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS (1973-2000) Left: Mr. Horace G. Livingston, Publisher Voice of the Black Community In 1968, Mr. Horace G. “Buck” Livingston Jr. of Decatur, Illinois purchased The Spirit of the Black Community and changed the name of the paper to the African American Voice and later to The Voice of the Black Community (“The Voice”). The Voice was published by Mr. Livingston. Its offices are located at 625 East Wood Street, Decatur, Illinois.

The Voice had issues in Springfield, Illinois, Decatur, Illinois, Bloomington, Illinois and Peoria, Illinois. The paper cost 50 cents per copy.

Other staff members have included: Vanessa Jones - Office Manager Elder Leo Livingston – Religion Melvin Chapman – Salesman Frank J. Eagles – Contributing Writer/photographer Charles Alsberry – Bloomington, Il. LuHenri Davis-Johnson – Peoria, Il. Local contributors to The Voice included, Carol Dew’s column The Dew Line; Joanne Smith’s column Jo’s Happ’nins; Lou Glover’s column Lou’s View; Phineas Hurst column by his name. The Voice, which was a member of the National Newspaper Association, also carried editorials by national and syndicated writers such as Child Watch by Marian Wright Eldeman; This Way for Black Empowerment By Dr. Lenora Fulani; Coping by Dr. Chalres W. Faulkner; Civil Rights Journal #0004 By Bernice Powell Jackson and Strong Points By James Strong. The Voice was also a member of Black Media, Inc., Illinois State Legislative Correspondence Association.

Mr. Livingston was born November 10, 1921 in Decatur, Illinois. He is World War II veteran. On December 9, 1940 he married Osceen Ella Carman in Clayton, Missouri.

On Apr. 22, 2007 at the age of 85, sitting in front of a sign “Job Well Done,” Mr. Livingston was lauded as a “pillar of the courage” and applauded by family, friends and the community the Main Street Church of the Living God. He was praised as for being a civic leader and entrepreneur. He was also commended for "unparalleled devotion" for standing up to fight racial injustice. The event was organized by Mr. Livingston’s daughter Sheila Watson who believed that her father was long overdue to be honored 145

and recognized by the community. A special issue of The Voice was published detailing some of Mr. Livingston’s accomplishments.107 Initially, the paper was struggling and Mr. Livingston worked alone from his home. He eventually got a typist named Ingrid Cravens at $25 per week. "He would get me up at 5 a.m. and tell me I had to type in another story," she said.

Ms. Cravens confessed to changing some of Mr. Livingston’ stories that were to radical so he wouldn’t got to jail. She confessed that she changed some of the stories "so Mr. Livingston wouldn't go to jail." Like many Black publishers, Mr. Livingston had trouble getting local printers to print his paper. He found a printer in Astoria to print the paper that printed the paper until Mr. Livingston retired in 2007. Jeanelle Nroman, who was the keynote speaker at the event praised Mr. Livingston as a “Strong man” and R. Ann Chambliss saluted him stating “his legacy in Decatur will forever be alive.” After he was paraded with flower by many of his 18 grandchildren, Mr. Livingston remarked, “its good to smell the roses.”108 On February Mr. Livingston and his brother Otis were recognized by the city of Decatur during a Black History Month tribute Sunday in the Decatur Public Library. Mayor Paul Osborne presented a city of Decatur certificate of recognition for outstanding service and a Stephen Decatur medallion to Mr. Livingston and his brother Otis, , the founder of Reach Prison Ministry in 1979 with his wife, Honeylee. "What would Decatur be like without these two men? I commend them for their perseverance," said Jeffrey Perkins, president of the Decatur chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.109 Black History Month has always been a month of reflection and of hope within the African American community. It was started by Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Dr. Woodson who was an African American scholar recognized that there were no African Americans in in his studies and when they were shown it was in an inferior manner. In 1915, Dr. Woodson started the Association for the Study of African American Life and History as a response to the lack of African American presence in history books. He also formed the Journal of Negro History. Black History Month began in 1926 as Negro History Week to bring light to African American contributions to American History. It was in the 107

Publisher Horace Livingston Jr. celebrated for giving Voice to African-Americans, Bob Fallstrom, Herald & Review, April 22, 200 108 Ibid 109 Decatur Pays Tribute to Livingston Brothers, February 26, 2007, Bob Fallstrom, Decatur Herald & Review

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second week of February because of the birthdays of Frederick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln, who were two individuals that Dr. Woodson considered to be influential to African American history. It was changed to Black History Month in 1976. Throughout the month of February Black newspapers across the country carry articles, stories, commentaries and photographs of local and national African American figures and events.

Below is are editorials by Mr. Livingston and Rev. Dr. Rudolph Shoultz on Black History Month in the February 1979 issue of The Voice: A Time of Memories and Elation Black History Month has become a sort of second New Year’s Celebration in which we review our progress in the past year. More than that it is a time to renew our pride in our heritage. It is a time of grim memories and (paradoxically) grand elation. Elation? Yes, elation that we are the descendants of probably the strongest people who ever lived. Our ancestors had to endure progressive steps of the most severe brutality to reach America’s shores. After a cruel and dehumanizing capture they endured the slave pens of Africa’s West Coast. Less than half survived the long trek from their native villages and less than two thirds lived through the ordeal of the slave pens. Then chained in a fetid and dark hold of a slave ship they left their native shore forever. Of these, the strongest, only three fourths reached the New World. The rest died of disease or were murdered and tossed to the sharks. A few rebelled and were slain.

Those that landed here in bondage were our ancestors – the strongest of the strong. They proved their mental and physical mettle by lasting through the dark page of our history called slavery and further showed their strength through the Reconstruction period after the Civil War. These people refused to disappear even under the burden of Jim Crow Law and Poll Tax. An unceasing shout for justice was heard as the years marched swiftly full of citizenship and equality in the nation that had coined the slogan “Liberty and Justice For All,” neither of which was his.

Out of the murder and pillage f the 1908 riot in Springfield was born the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Much of the strength of that organization was sapped in its unceasing fight against SOUTHERN bigotry while NORTHERN bigotry sailed on its merry way. It took a Second World War to show that basically nothing had changed. Black inductees into the services were systematically segregated. None were allowed into the US Marines until 1943. The Army and Air Force was segregated down to the last private and the Navy limited blacks to kitchen and officer’s quarters as servants. Blacks were the only minority. Chinese, Indians, Mexicans and all of today’s socalled minorities were sent to assignment’s with white outfits. In that war German and Italian prisoners of war drank at the “white” fountain 147

showing that even the enemy was held in higher regard than a black soldier. President Harry Truman put an end to segregation in the services but even today there are incidents which show that the old bugaboo-racism is not dead.

No black history review would be complete without comment of the advent of martin Luther King Jr. and the Black Revolution of the 60’s or the impact of militants led by Malcolm X, Stokely Carmichael, Rap Brown and Ron Karenga and others. The whole world witnessed that thing our foreign policy had tried to hide.

Today, out of a seemingly apathy, the stirrings of a new moment can be felt. It is born of the same elements that previous movements were born hypocrisy and bigotry.

We witnessed (after World War II) the arrival of the D.P.’s (displaced persons) . These people came from all parts of Europe and quickly blended into the American scene and were soon as racist in attitude as any “cracker.” They prospered in jobs that were not open to blacks and lived in covenanted neighborhoods.

Now we witness a new wave of D.P.’s. These are Vietnamese and Asiatic.

Malaysia and other Asian counties have refused entry to these people, even letting many die on their refugee ships in storms. This month an agency has been established to aid these people. Some will come to Springfield. If they follow the pattern, they will soon have jobs that blacks need and develop their own brand of racism. All of this is going on while our government is cutting CETA funds, which benefit the blacks.

It is sure thing that we shall remain a strong people for the same hypocrisies that tested our forbearers’ mettle are around to test ours.110 ************** WHAT ARE WE DOING FROM THE DESK OF DR. RUDOLPH S. SHOULTZ This month is known as “Black History Month.” During the earlier years it was called “Negro History.” That was before the word Black was an acceptable definition of the race. When I first became knowledgeable on this Negro History was in February 1953. I was at the St. Baptist Church of Freeport, Illinois. Thus night was set aside the young people of the church would play the role of some outstanding Negros, those who 110

The Voice of the Black Community, February 8, 1979

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invented or contributed some phase of the American way of life. I was shocked to know of the many things that were invented by Black Americans and how very little was known outside of the Black Community. If you trey to educate yourself within the school system you would not know from the curriculum that these were black people who have made these contributions. Some of our colleges have courses on Black Studies, and some of the schools have set aside a week for Black History.

Looking at things as they were then, and now, I often times wonder what if the Black Churches of these United States had not stood strong their ground informing Blacks of their rights and the accomplishments of some Black Americans, what would have happened? I, for one, am Grateful to God for the Black Churches, because though this institution, alone, we are more knowledgeable of what our Black Brothers and Sisters have done even though physically they were in slavery they would not let anything or anyone shackle their minds, and they produced. Let us reflect now as to where we go from here? We have better opportunities, better schools, more and better almost of everything. Look on the athletic field, there is not a sport where we have not excelled. Now, let us look at the professional field; medical doctors, engineers, lawyers, clergy, college professors and other skilled craftsmen and women. What are we doing?

Not much of anything, in comparison to these old times Blacks who did not have one half the opportunity we have now.

When you go on our college campuses, and see some of our young Black Men, you wonder why they are there; they have little reason to be there.

We have even heard the statement “the white professors are prejudice and turn us off.� One should wonder what kind of prejudice did our forefathers have, and they made it, in spite of what they may have gone through, they set their sail and went through the storm.

Another thing I had noticed in previous years, that these Blacks who had made their contributions to the progress of America, aligned themselves with the only organization that is owned and operated by the Blacks and that is the church. That is where, he learned to lead and stand as a person. Those days are not gone, they are yet with us. The Black Church is still the only organization that he owns and operates. So let us, keep it alive, don’t let technological advancements and new found freedom rob us of that togetherness we once enjoyed as a race. This is Black History Month, let us all push now for a new freedom from whatever enslaves us.

Give our senior citizens a break to live out their remaining years in better comfort and not being afraid to live at home or walk the streets. Let us pledge ourselves that those who have laid down their lives to take the physical shackles from us, will be honored.111 111

Ibid

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****************** From The White House National African American History Month February 1994 Greetings to all who are celebrating Black History Month during this important time of renewal and reflection.

America was founded on the principle that we are all created equal, and this solemn commitment to tolerance enriches and broadens the American Experience, of which African American heritage is an inseparable part. It weaves throughout our country’s history, profoundly influencing every aspect of our national life.

America has come a long way since the days of “Colored Only” and “White Only” signs, which disfigured our country’s landscape. African Americans have made great strides in recent years, commanding leadership positions in public and private sectors in record numbers. Opportunities for education, advancement, election, and mobility continue to expand among black Americans, and our country is moving ever closer to fulfilling its fundamental promise of equality for all.

Yet many problems continue to plague over our communities, tarnishing that ideal of equality. The poverty, drugs and violence that afflict Americans of all races and backgrounds have severely harmed black children, women, and men, threatening our vision of a better world.

Throughout this month, we look to the lessons of the past for solutions to these crises in the hope of building a brighter world for the future.

Many such solutions can be found in the rich history of the African American people, the speeches of martin Luther king Jr., and Malcolm X, the writings of W.E.B. Dubois, Frederick Douglas, and Sojourner Truth, the powerful literature of Toni Morrison, Richard Wright, Alice Walker, and many others explore the difficulties and joys that pervade the African American experience. By rediscovering and celebrating this wealth of history, we can draw strength from the successes of these great leaders and look forward to a new era of healing and hope.

As we continually strive to embrace the talent and creativity of all of our nation’s people, I extend best wishes to all for an exciting, productive month.

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The Springfield edition of The Voice was stopped in 2001. Mr. Livingston continued to publish the Decatur and Bloomington editions up until his retirement in 2007. Mr. Livingston observed his 91th birthday on November 10, 2012.

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PURE NEWS USA (1983-PRESENT) Left: PURE NEWS USA Founder & Publisher, T.C. Christian, Jr. holding a framed copy of the first issue (November 1983) of PURE NEWS USA newspaper.

Pure News USA (formerly known as Pure News) was founded in 1983 by T.C. Christian. Christian is also the publisher and Chief Executive Officer. Pure News USA is a monthly paper with a circulation of 50,000 per month. Its offices are located at 1701 South Collage Ave., Springfield, Illinois. The masthead states, “We call it “PURE NEWS” because we tell it like it is.”

Christian states, “ the purpose of Pure News USA is to fill a void left untapped by magazines and other media by providing a free monthly newspaper which is of high quality, informative, news worthy, and entertaining.” Quite frankly, our mission is to target the vast diverse market of readers and consumers who would welcome a free national newspaper. Pure News USA is available at churches, colleges, government offices, restaurants, retail stores, airports, and the list goes on. We’re “free” to go wherever the consumer goes. Christian has involved his entire family in the newspaper business. His wife, Beverly Christian is the Chief Operating Officer and Editor-in-Chief. His twin sons, Teddy Christian III and Calvin Christian III are also youth columnists with their own column entitled, Twin Issues.

Left: Beverly Christian, Pure News USA, Editor-in-Chief Concerning it web presence, Beverly Christian, who is also a successful realtor, says, Pure News USA will be available for both net-surfers and non-surfers. This means we will be accessible to the low, middle and high consumer customers. And what’s really exciting about this venture is that a lot of our national content will come rolling down the Information Super Highway.

Other staff members include: Sabrina Johnson – Associate Editor James Anderson – Director Media Advertising Fran Hairston – Sales Representative Left: August 2005 issue of PURE NEWS USA 152

Left: August 2005 issue of PURE NEWS USA Demond Day – Director Circulation Jermaine Perry – Circulation Representative Jimmie Treadwell – Director Photography Jaon Sanders – Director Accounting Contributing Writers for the paper are: Teddy Christian III Calvin Christian III Ralph A. Mason Rev. Woodrow Walker Joyce Kelly William Reed Montrice Williams Nicole Overton

Christian, a native of East St. Louis, was born and raised on “Goose Hill” where he attended Garfield and Carve grade schools. His mother and father introduced him to Sunday School classes, Sunday Church Services, Baptist Youth Fellowship, and Bible School while attending the Southern Mission Baptist Church. He later graduated from Rock Junior High and East St. Louis Senior High School.

After being drafted and honorably discharged from the U.S. Army, Christian was employed by the city of East St. Louis as a file clerk. Shortly after being hired at City hall, he was promoted to reference clerk.

During his tenure at City Hall, he utilized the U.S. Government G.I. Bill to graduate from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville with a B.S> Degree in Sociology and Psychology. In June 1977, Christian graduated on a Friday and was hired that Monday

by Illinois Secretary of State Alan Dixon. He was employed with the Office of Secretary of State until 2001 when he accepted a position as Assistant Administrator with Illinois Governor George Ryan’s office. Christian accepted an early retirement program in 2002.

Christian is the recipient of several awards. In 1977, he received an Outstanding Services Award highlighting the Community and Mankind from the City of East St. Louis. In 1993, he received the Dr. martin Luther King Jr. Award from Illinois State Treasurer Judy Barr Topinka and another Dr. martin Luther King Jr. Award the East St. Louis Gateway East Metropolitan Ministry. In 2008, Christian was the recipient of the 15 Under Fifteen Award recognizing excellence in business from National City Bank and the Springfield Business.

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Right: February 2013 issue of PURE NEWS USA Below is an editorial from Christian describing the reason behind the formation of his newspaper. Similar to this work, Christian evokes the words of the publishers of Freedom’s Journal, the first African American newspaper in the country, "We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us:” Today, I understand why so many people often ask: "Where did the time go?" It seems like it was only yesterday, but in fact, it was in 1982, when yours truly founded a grass roots organization in Spring-field, Illinois known as People United for Rights and Equality (“PURE”).

The purpose of that organi-zation was to be a monitor and a voice for Springfield citizens who had the least, that is, the least in terms of employment, salary, health care, homeownership, and, of course, the list goes on and on.

I would be remiss in my writing if I didn't thank God first and then our readers and advertisers for their support.

In reminiscing about yesterday, one meeting stands out more than the rest. It was when we, the members of PURE, wearing identical black TShirts, attended a public meeting with members of the Springfield Metropolitan Exposition Auditorium Authority Board, who at that time was the overseer for major entertainment at the Prairie Capitol Convention Center. We wanted to know why they were only selecting white singers and white entertainers to perform at the Center. And it was what happened after this meeting which lead to the birth of The Pure News newspaper.

Apparently, there was a 'meeting after the meeting,' because there was not one word of our presence or presentation mentioned in Springfield's daily State Journal-Register. I remember this reporter telling me: "I gave you guys (PURE) a big write-up last month, so I didn't think I needed to do it again so soon." I told him I wasn't interested in any special favors and his job was to report the news and tell it like it is. And that's when I knew, 'We must find another way to tell our story so that we can tell it like it is.'

So, the year 1983, gave birth to the Pure News newspaper with an initial 154

circulation of 3,000 copies in Springfield. Today, the name has been changed to PURE NEWS USA because we want to inform you on what's happening around the country. Although, we sometimes boast of having a statewide readership of more than 50,000, we have no plans to park by our limited success.

We still remember the words spoken by Samuel Cornish and John B. Russwurm, publishers of the first African American newspaper in 1827, when on the front page of their Freedom's Journal; they declared: "We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us.

Today, the other media still wants to speak for us by handpicking one or two black leaders. And how can they possibly plead our cause when they frequently choose to blackout the news we can use? We may be all grown-up, but not 'too grown' to complete the homework assigned by our history teachers, Samuel Cornish and John Russwurm. And with God's blessings, we plan to continue pleading our own cause. After all, we also call it PURE NEWS because "we tell it like it is!"

Christian has advocated on virtually every issue that has confronted the African American community since 1983. Below in this May 2006 editorial, he lives up to his motto of, “telling it like it is” when discussing the removal of Judith Johnson, the School District #186 first African American president and the only African American member of the school board: It is what it is !

As one of the voices which pleads the causes of African Americans, we were notified that there was a ‘private meeting’ prior to the school board meeting held last month on Monday, April 17. We were told that Judith Johnson, the reigning president and the only black member on the board, would be removed and replaced by Cheryl Wise. And since we’re in the business of trying to reach out and help our sisters and brothers, we decided to attend this meeting for a better understanding of who, what, when, where and why.

Obviously, we, African Americans, have been relegated to the back door, the back room, the back of the bus and the back side of the community for so long until the mere sound of leadership, ownership, representation, and recognition still brings music to our ears. Understandably, it’s a bittersweet feeling to know that the president of the school board is the first black woman elected to that position, even though, there’s only one black member on the board. And just in c a s e you didn’t know, Springfield’s District 186 is still under a federal desegregation order which requires the district’s numbers to resemble the racial makeup of the community. In other words, blacks make up about 40 percent of

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public school enrollment but only about 6 percent of the 1,000 teachers in the district are black.

We need to tell you that the school board elects new officers every year.

We also need to note that the board hired Cynthia Shambley, a black assistant principal at Springfield High school, as a recruiter to attract more minority teachers. And the board also interacts with an advisory council to steer more students toward teaching jobs. So, you’re probably wondering: “If the board is trying to make some progress, why was there such an uproar at the last school board meeting?” Well, in 1976 the federal government required desegregation of the schools after the district admitted that it had been segregating students by race for years.

Therefore the policy of busing students to different schools is an ongoing effort to integrate the school system. However, two years ago, Cheryl Wise wanted to ‘Stop the buses!’ She wanted black students to go to their black schools and likewise for white students. Do we really need a debate on which schools would most likely have up-to-date text books, which students would most likely be sitting in less crowded classrooms, which schools would most likely have enough computers for all the students and--yeah!—the list goes on and on. Did you say: “That was two years ago and she’s not like that today?” Well, less than a month ago, Wise admitted to confronting and accusing Johnson of using her role as board president to promote minority issues. Wise later defended herself by saying, “that was only part of the conversation.”

Subsequently, we were surprised and out of order when the school board endorsed Wise as it’s new president with no discussion and no questions asked. Bear in mind, that it’s usually the president who sets the tone for policy and direction. It was indeed some embarrassing statements and moments at last month’s meeting. The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language defines the term racist as “the belief that race accounts for differences in human character or ability and that a particular race is superior to others.” It was reported that Ken Page, president of the Springfield b r a n c h N A A C P, called Cheryl Wise a racist during the school board meeting after she was named president of the board. It’s unfortunate that he had to go that far! Nevertheless, we all should remember this old adage: “If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck -- it’s a duck.” It is what it is! **********

A.C.: What motivated you to start your own newspaper?

T.C.: In 1982, yours truly founded a grassroots organization known as People United for Rights and Equality (“PURE”). The purpose of that organization was to be a voice and monitor for 156

African Americans living in Springfield. When the ‘other’ media decide to stop covering our marches and voices, I knew it was time for me to start my own media, So, in 1983, I founded the PURE NEWS newspaper.

A.C.: What was the biggest challenges of your work as editor?

T.C.: November 2013 marks our 30th Anniversary. We have been blessed with the support of the communities we serve. And fortunately, we haven’t had to face to many major challenges.

Our number one challenge is circulation! In other words, we want businesses, churches, grocery stores and etc. to call us for newspapers to be placed in their establishments.

A.C.: What leaders, thinkers and doers do you admire most?

T.C.: In terms of admiration, names that come to my mind would be President Barack Obama, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Oprah Winfrey, Rev. Al Sharpton, and Michael Eric Dyson.

A.C.: What is one thing you’ve learned as a newspaper editor and entrepreneur that you would pass along to young people who want their careers and lives to have an impact?

T.C.: Whatever their dreams or passions may be, I would pass to them the same theme I pass to my kids and that is: “There’s only one way and that’s the right way!”

A.C.: As an editorialist, what are the three main issues that you see affecting progress in the Black community and what recommendations would you offer to remedy them?

T.C.: The main issue affecting progress in the Black community is Black on Black killings. We need to call Minister Louis Farrakhan for another Million Man March. We also need the ministers, fraternities, sororities and other professional organizations to come together as one big union in our Black communities. And thirdly, I believe this new union could provide suggestions and assistance toward the education of our children.

A.C.: Where do you see the future of the Black press heading in the next 5 years?

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T.C.: I believe the Black Press will continue to be a strong voice in the community. We can get a lot of news from social media and the internet, but is it news we all use? In other words, you will find news and happenings in the Black Press that you simply won’t find on the internet.

A.C.: As a black newspaper publisher/editor what legacy would you like to leave behind?

T.C.: Prayerfully, our legacy will be as it is printed on the front page of every issue which reads: “We call it PURE NEWS because we tell it like it is!

In 2004, to commemorate the twentieth anniversary of Pure News, the Illinois State Legislature passed House Bill # 662 an Expression of Respect and Esteem which read as follows: HOUSE RESOLUTION WHEREAS, In 1982, T. C. Christian, Jr. created a grassroots organization known as People United for Rights and Equality(PURE); and WHEREAS, In 1983, due to a lack of media coverage for the PURE organization and due to an effort to highlight the voice of the AfricanAmerican community, T. C. Christian, Jr. founded the PURE NEWS newspaper; and WHEREAS, In 1983 as well as today, the PURE NEWS newspaper credits and adopts one of the principles so eloquently spoken by the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. when he said, "If I can just help somebody along the way, then my living shall not be in vain,"; and WHEREAS, The PURE NEWS newspaper began its initial circulation of 3,000 copies in Springfield; today, the name has been changed to PURE NEWS USA and it has a statewide circulation of more than 50,000 readers with a goal of becoming a national newspaper; and WHEREAS, In remembrance of Samuel Cornish and John B. Russwurm, founders of the first black press in 1827, PURE NEWS USA is dedicated to preserving yesterday's rich heritage by providing a voice for today which will tell the story and promises to "tell it like it is"; therefore, be it RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETYTHIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we congratulate the PURE NEWS USA newspaper on the occasion of its 20th anniversary; and be it further 158

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to T. C. Christian, Jr. as an expression of our respect and esteem.

Pure News USA continues to be a strong voice within the African American community in the city of Springfield. Christian’s dedication and community advocacy will remain a legacy of truth and justice by “telling it like it is!”

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CAPITOL CITY COURIER (2007-PRESENT) Left: Mike Pittman, founder of The Capital City Courier.

The Capital City Courier (“The Courier”) was founded by Michael Pittman in 2006. Pittman is also the Editor of the paper. The Courier is a monthly publication that Pittman says is “a vehicle to deliver the “news, views, and the other side of the story” to African-Americans from all walks of life.’ Its offices are located at 1016 East Ash, Springfield, Illinois.

Specializing in hard-hitting, thought-provoking issues that affect the Black community, The Courier has watched its reader- ship grow from a local newspaper in Springfield, Illinois to one that is read both nationally and internationally via its website (http://www.capitalcitycourier.org) Pittman, who was raised in public housing in St. Louis, Missouri by his mother Sherline Pittman, is the Editor of the nationally and internationally recognized newspaper.

Pittman has a strong worth ethic and is no stranger to adversity. “I saw my first shooting when I was seven. Pittman recalls. “Violence is something you get used to if you’re around it all the time. There were no male role models in the projects. Pittman’s father was a pimp and worked out of state. He saw his father a total of three times – between prison terms. But Pittman’s mother Sherline Pittman refused to go on welfare, working as a nurse’s aid in a St. Louis hospital. She also refused her husband’s offer of cash, calling it “blood money.” Sherline Pittman insisted that her boys go to school and keep the apartment and its immediate surroundings clean. More than once Pittman said his mother approached drug dealers telling them not to sell or use around her home or children. She routinely advised prostitutes to move along. “Mom had a lot of courage with what she did in the projects. Relatives warned her, but she wasn’t afraid,” Pittman said. She said that somebody had to be willing to stand up, to take a stand and say what they think. She said, “they may not like you or like what you have to say, but they will respect you.” When Pittman visited his uncle in Cleveland one summer, he says, he “saw how middle class blacks lived. I always wanted to have a nice place to stay and grass in the yard.”

He also saw his uncle working hard, taking care of his family, and he began to understand that “success” means more than money. The Pittman family’s struggle in the St. Louis ghetto ended when Pittman’s father died in 1974 – killed in a head on collision with a drunken driver. Sherline Pittman received a small insurance settlement, and she saw her chance to escape. She moved her family to a mobile home in Mulberry Grove, Illinois.”112

112

“Pittman Took Long, Hard Road to Springfield,” State Journal Register, August 13, 1995.

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Right: The December 2012 issue of The Capital City Courier As the Editor, Pittman has used The Courier to create nation- wide dialogue on various story topics such as: 

   

          

Where’s Daddy? Have Black Men Deserted Black Children" “Light-Skinned Blacks vs. DarkSkinned “Are the Scales of Justice Tipped Against Blacks?”

“Obesity: Why Are We Getting Too Big For Our Britches?”

“Where’s Daddy? Have Black Men Deserted Black Children" “Light-Skinned Blacks vs. Dark-Skinned Blacks" “Can Black Women Raise Black Boys to Be Black Men?" “Why Can’t Tyrone Read: Is the Educational System Failing Our Children?”

“Why is the Food That Black People Are Eating Killing Them?”

“Home Sick! Are Toxic Buildings Literally Taking Our Breath Away?”

“Are the Scales of Justice Tipped Against Blacks?”

“Obesity: Why Are We Getting Too Big For Our Britches?” ”Why Can’t Blacks Work Together?”

“Immigration: Whose Country is it, Anyway?”

“In-Laws or Outlaws: The Role Family Relationships Play in Our Lives” “Swindlers’ List: Are There Thieves in the Temple?”

In addition to reporting on the provocative stories above, The Courier is known for their informative interviews. The following individuals are just a few of the individuals that were personally interviewed by Pittman: (1) Dr. Steve Perry, Principal, Capital Preparatory Magnet School; (2) Ernestine 'Ernie" Shepherd, a 76 year old personal trainer; (3) Joel Osteen internationally acclaimed pastor; (4) Cathy Hughes Chairperson of Radio One. Radio One, Inc. one of the nation’s largest radio broadcasting companies; (5) Dick Gregory renown comedian, civil rights activist, entrepreneur and health nutrition expert; and (6) Daryl Strawberry, a former professional baseball player.

Staff and contributors to The Courier include: 161

Kim Gordon – Associate Editor Norman Calmese - General / Sales Manager Kimberly Conner - Staff Writer Lyle Johnson - Staff Writer Sherry Pittman - Staff Writer Aeneas and Tracy Williams - Staff Writers Kam Williams - Staff Writer Left: January 2013 issue of The Capital City Courier On January 1, 2007, Editor and Publisher magazine featured the following article by Mark Fitzgerald One Black Paper Shatters 'Taboos' on The Courier calling the paper, “one of the most unique newspapers in the Country!:” One Black Paper Shatters 'Taboos' Real estate developer and rookie newspaper owner/editor Michael Pittman cheerfully admits he's no journalist. And maybe that's why, he says, his monthly newspaper in Springfield, Ill., is becoming the talk of African Americans across the nation, barely 18 months after its launch. "We started out as an alternative press, if you will, with the understanding that we would talk about issues that nobody else was talking about," he says. "We thought that that would set us apart from any other paper in this community ? and, for that matter, about 90% of black papers in the country."

Since its July 2005 launch, the Capital City Courier has focused on an unusual news niche: African-American "taboo" topics. The black press, of course, has always been a forum where touchy subjects are raised. This summer, for instance, the Chicago Defender shocked many of its readers with a provocative front-page challenge: "TAKE A STAND. Black America, isn't it about time we made up our mind about the word 'nigger'?"

But no other paper takes as direct an approach as the Capital City Courier.

"A primary aim of this newspaper is to raise issues that we as black folk talk about in private but don't generally talk about in public," says Pittman. Courier stories carry such headlines as "Why Can't Blacks Work Together?" and "Light Skin Blacks vs. Dark Skin Blacks." Another story in the works addresses the stereotype that wealthy black celebrities are 162

cheapskates when it comes to helping poorer African Americans.

Often written by Associate Editor Kim E. Gordon, these are long articles that touch on history and sociology, but always feature the opinions and experiences of locals. Pittman says he's a fan of long-form journalism: "There are only so many things you can say in a 500-word article; there are a lot of things you can say in a 4,000-word article."

The Courier's reports are fodder for chat rooms and blogs, as well as black radio talk shows across the nation. And the paper is finding an expanding local audience, too. "We see so many whites reading the paper because we talk about the things the black community talks about in private, things whites will never know about otherwise," Pittman adds.

The free-distribution paper drops 15,000 copies each issue, and has expanded from 24 pages to 40 since its launch last July.

Pittman says the topics are not picked for their shock value, but to get a community dialogue going. Still, he seems tickled by the attention the paper is getting. On the other hand, the new editor says he is also learning about the disadvantages of being a journalist. He's begun to notice that friends and business associates now dummy up when he's around. "I'll bet I've heard the expression 'This is off the record' more times in the last six months than Carter has liver pills," Pittman laughs.113 In addition to being a newspaper Editor, Michael also served as the former host and producer of the “Let the Truth Be Told,” a radio talk show that aired on Voice America radio. He has recently started a comedy show on the local FX network called “One Mic Stand” in which he delivered some hilarious jokes and one liners himself as he introduces his guests. The program airs in several markets throughout Central Illinois.

Pittman was the founder and former President of the Springfield Black Chamber of Commerce. He has received awards such as the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Economic Development Award, Entrepreneur of the Year by the Illinois Times, Minority Business Person of the Year by the Springfield Chamber of Commerce as well as economic development awards from the NAACP and The Urban League. Additionally, A former professional baseball player, having been a pitcher in the St. Louis Cardinals’ baseball organization for six years , Pittman was inducted into Kaskaskia Junior College’s Sports Hall of Fame in January 2012.

His real estate development company Pittman Enterprises, has developed numerous projects in Springfield’s East Side Community. In addition, he was also the President of 113

One Black Paper Shatters Taboos, mark Fitzgerald, January 1, 2007, Editor & Publisher Magazine

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Pitgam Enterprises, another real estate development company that was co-owned with former professional basketball player Kevin Gamble. He developed projects such as (1) the McDad Building a 13,000 square foot office building that currently houses the Springfield Urban Leagues Head Start, (2) Eastview Estates, a middle income subdi-vision, and (3) the development of a neighborhood strip shopping center.

Pittman’s dedication and belief in what he was doing showed that the Eastside of the city could support large scale development. “I’m a very community oriented person, but at the same time I consider myself conservative,” he remarked in a 1995 interview. “This will show other developers you can make projects on the east side work if you have the will to do so,” he said.

In addition to his newspaper business, currently Pittman is also the owner of Perfect Pitch Baseball and Softball School. Pittman formerly served as the Director of Community Relations for the City of Springfield.

Pittman has a Bachelor’s degree in Labor Relations from the University of Illinois at Springfield. He has been married to Sherry Pittman for 30 years and has two children Michael II and Denise. He is an ordained deacon at Abundant Faith Christian Center.

In a January 2013 interview with this writer, Pittman discussed the newspaper and its impact to the Springfield community: A.C.: What motivated you to start your own newspaper?

M.P.: Starting a newspaper was something that I wanted to do for over 20 years.

The motivating factor was the day after the Million Man March there was no story at all on it in the local newspaper, this was after the March had national and international television and radio coverage as well as coverage in every major newspaper in the country. My thing was that were else in the world could you have one million people gather, especially one million black men and that not be a headline in any paper in the country.

News is news regardless if you agree or disagree with Minister Farakhan. I felt there should have been a story in the paper. I felt that it was a slap in the face to black people. Also, I saw a need for a paper that touched on broader topics that was important to black people everywhere and not just Springfield, Illinois. I also saw the need to have a publication that made people think about how they were living their lives and how a newspaper could impact their thought process. I also saw the need for more diversity in black publications. How sad would it be if there were only one black doctor in town and no one else saw the need for more than one black doctor because we already have one, or an accountant, beauty shop or auto

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mechanic to name a few. It saw it as another option for readers as there different styles in everything.

Above: Pittman at job site of his McDad Building development. Source: State Journal Register A.C.: What was the biggest challenges of your work as editor?

M.P.: Because I like to stay involved in numerous things, it is finding the time to spend with the paper that it needs. Every month with the paper our cover story is always a questions. Within the story we try to offer answers, in our opinion, on the questions. We try to have fresh stories every month. When the paper first started we would get wire stories and put them in the paper.

I don't like doing that because now with the internet at everyone's fingertips wire stories, in my opinion, is old news. So keeping fresh thought provoking stories can be a challenge. I get writing request from people all over the country that would like to submit articles to the paper.

In talking to these individuals I like to know what they are passionate about, because if they are passionate on what they are writing about it will show itself in their writings. Also, publishing a paper in a town were the 165

black population is 14-16% of the population and few if any black businesses are able to advertise, can be challenging. There are several businesses that take black businesses for granted and refuse to spend dollars with the black press, but yet they take black people's money every day. What I mean by that is if black people annually spend 18 billion dollars on cellular telephones, 21 billion on insurance, 29 billion on automobiles and 65 billion dollars on food you would think that these same entities would advertise in the black publications. You only need to look in the black publications to see what I mean. I feel that we put out a quality newspaper and we have been nationally recognized as such.

Without advertisers it is difficult.

A.C.: What leaders, thinkers and doers do you admire most?

M.P.: I admire visionary people. I consider them doers. Steve Jobs was a doer.

Walt Disney was a doer that I admire as was Madam C.J. Walker and John Johnson. For leaders individuals that are often considered controversial, because often times they go against the grain, but they always have the best interest of the people that they represent above all else, I would include Maxine Waters, Dr. Martin Luther King, A. Phillip Randolph, Adam Clayton Powell, Minister Louis Farrakhan, Moses and Muhammad Ali, Jesus was and is the ultimate leader, thinker and doer. He is beyond a doubt the one that I truly admire and love.

A.C.: What is one thing you’ve learned as a newspaper editor and entrepreneur that you would pass along to young people who want their careers and lives to have an impact?

M.P.: As an editor, I learned that starting a newspaper takes careful thought and preparation. It would be nice to have someone that you they could talk to for guidance. When I started the newspaper the only person that was willing to help me was a lady by the name of Sharon Whalen, who was the former Editor of the Illinois Times newspaper in Springfield. She bent over backwards to help me and didn't feel threatened or afraid to share valuable information as it related to printing, advertisers, writers content or whatever else that I needed. I would not hesitate to do the same thing for any other black person that wanted to start their own newspaper or any other business for that matter. Especially, if I made a lot of mistakes along the way I would not want someone else to go through the same thing that I went through. As an entrepreneur, I would say that find something that you enjoy doing and figure out how to make money doing it. If you enjoy what you do, you will never work a day in your life. Also, it is good to network with and build business relationships with as many people as you can. It also means a lot to have a good name and not be slothful in doing business. The internet now makes it possible to do business all over the world. As much as I love black people, the only place that you should bet on black is in Vegas! What I mean by that if you are going into business to 166

cater specifically to black people, then you are setting yourself up for failure, in my opinion, especially in a city such as Springfield. You need to be able to market to everyone. Also if you are married and are want to be in business you should definitely be on the same page as your spouse, if not then don't move forward in that venture. One other thing as an entrepreneur I would tell others is that don't let pride get in the way in your business decisions. As Kenny Rogers said in his song "You got to know when to hold and know when to fold." As an entrepreneur in business you goal is to make money. If it's not then you need to be a Not for Profit Business. And lastly all businesses should be able to stand on their on. If you are involved in multiple businesses, don't rob Peter to pay Paul because eventually they both could fail.

A.C.: As an editorialist, what are the three main issues that you see affecting progress in the Black community and what recommendations would you offer to remedy them?

M.P.: Economics, in my opinion is the number one issue plaguing the black community. In my opinion, economics drives the social. People steal because they need money. In communities where there is not a thriving economic base social issues become prevalent. In the black community the dollar doesn't circulateD not one time. In other communities it circulates 16 to 18 times before it leaves the community. One of my recommendations for the economic problems would be to have all of the black churches get together and leverage their offerings. What I mean by this is that every Sunday at black churches an offering is collected. Some are big and some are small. On Monday mornings those dollars are being deposited in a financial institution somewhere. If they would get together and agree on picking one bank were they would deposit those dollars in or start their own credit union they could collectively as a group leverage those dollars to build affordable housing, make small business loans to businesses that want to operate in the black community, buy drug infested and dilapidated houses that are near their houses of worship and fix them up and sell them either outright or on contract for deed and make money on the interest rate that they would charge on the contract for deed verses getting a lessor amount for their money sitting in the bank drawing little to no interest. They could also set up entrepreneurial classes for young people at their churches. These classes could be divided up in students in groups of 8 to 10 students. They would develop a business plan for a business a then receive 500 to 1000 to fund that idea and make the business grow. Profits could be use for students for college expenses. Our young people have brilliant minds but need to be directed in a positive direction. The number two problem that I see facing the black community is the absence of the black father in the home. Sixty eight percent of all black households are headed up by single mothers. In 1960 this number was eleven percent. My recommendation would be for the black community to return to it's spiritual roots. When the morals of a people 167

are in disarray, so are it's people. This can be done by taking the message outside of the walls to the street. The third problem in my opinion is that of jealousy in the black community. This goes back to the days of slavery and the plantation mentality that existed then and unfortunately still exists to this day. My recommendation would for our black leaders either proclaimed or self-proclaimed to get together and check their egos at the door and find common ground on the problems that plaque the black community that they all can agree on and map out a plan to address it.

This should be easy because there are many( i.e. crime, drugs poverty, substandard housing, trash, graffiti, illiteracy, etc.) Because when you are able to come together on common ground then you can move as a people together to higher ground.

A.C.: Where do you see the future of the Black press heading in the next 5 years?

M.P.: As newspapers shutter their doors throughout the country and advertising dollars dry up this will make it increasingly tougher on black newspapers.

As Malcolm X once said, "When white America sneezes black America catches as cold." It is going to be a balancing act because black newspapers, in my opinion are going to have to become more diverse and at the same time not lose their identity as a black newspaper. I also think that the black press is going to have to be more creative and invest more in technology and not be a paper that provides not just local news but news from throughout the country that are not just wire stories. Had it not been for the black press, the Trayvon Martin killing would have been swept under the rug. The same held true for the importance of the black press in the Emmit Till murder back in the 50's. More and more people get their information online now, so the black press is going to have to tap into this market. I think that you Pete, have the right idea with a online publication.

I think that is where the future is going to lie for the black press. That is just my opinion.

A.C.: As a black newspaper publisher/editor what legacy would you like to leave behind?

M.P.: I would say as a legacy the mere fact that the paper was started by a man who had no journalism experience, was a D student in English in high school and had no other newspaper experience should and I would hope be a inspiration to anyone that has dreams to do anything in life. Legacy is not something that is of the utmost importance to me. You create your legacy by how you live your life and how you treat other while you are here on this earth. In my opinion, we all will be judged by one thing and that is LOVE. Love for God, love for your family, love for you neighbor and love for yourself.

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In the following May 2006 editorial Pittman expounds his ideas on the cover issue, “Why Can’t Blacks Work Together.”: “My Two Cents” I pondered the theme and focus for this month's issue of CCC, I reflected on a recent conversation that I had with an acquaintance of mine that happens to also be white. In a moment of candor and frank discussion, he was curious enough (and bold enough) to ask me a question birthed from his own personal observations and conclusions that mirrored a question that on many occasions has entered my heart during times of inner searching. That question was "Why Can't Blacks Work Together?"

I must admit that I was somewhat shocked by the audacity and raw nature of the question itself and the obvious conclusion already drawn by the inquiry. However, after having gathered my perspective, this is not a question that has gone unasked countless times in countless ways by virtually every black person in our nation. I don't consider the fact that our paper this month is focused on openly asking this question to be a case of "airing dirty laundry in public". In fact, if one's dirt)' laundry is already on display for the world to see, it would be ridiculous not to attempt any measure possible to see that it gets clean, no matter who is watching. This is especially true if the scent of that dirty laundry stinks up the entire community! This laundry today is represented by epic proportions of murder, drug abuse, economic devastation, neglected neighborhoods, sub-standard education, etc ... AND we need the laundry cleaned now!

I also felt that it would be unfair to ask all of you to consider this question without also offering my two cents on the matter to stand along with the insight of so many others throughout our community. As I looked at your thought provoking responses to this loaded question, some themes quickly began to emerge. Many seized on issues such as jealousy, envy, lack of love or concern for one another, fear, betrayal, strife, hatred as common reasons for the circumstance in which blacks find themselves.

These issues and many like them are solid leads as to the root cause of the situation. As these responses turned over in my mind, I did as I tend to do when confronted with issues larger than myself (which is quite often) ... I turned to scripture for insight and enlightenment. As I read Galatians 5:19- 21, "Now the works of the flesh are evident which are ... " It then goes on to list virtually every symptom we have named for our lack of unity in the black community. I quickly noticed that the issues that we seem to be facing as blacks are actually the symptoms of a greater societal ill, the lack of true spirituality as a community. I didn't say a lack of religion, I said true spirituality and we aren't the only segment of our 169

nation to suffer this ill but as with most things negative in our society, it seems to hit us hardest.

Could it be that a community viewed as the personification of spirituality and religious expression could actually be victimized by what we have traditionally viewed as our greatest strength? For some insight on this issue, let's examine our religious institutions which have always been viewed as the "backbone of the black community". Do the same symptoms that seem to plague the black community as a whole also characterize the relationships and workings of our religious institutions? Is it sometimes difficult to distinguish between the "spiritual" folks and everyone else?

Are there just as many manifestations of fleshly motivation operating in our religious community as there are in the broader community as a whole? Do we work together in this arena? You be the one to determine the truth of the matter. ..

Now please, don't misunderstand me. Institutions are only as good and effective as the people that make them up, so I'm not attempting to slam any group or church, but what I am suggesting is that we as individuals must embrace and walk in the virtues and principles that are being so often taught and preached. Simply put, assembly and membership is no longer (and never has been) enough to generate the necessary influence that the "backbone" should have. I am publicly calling on those that profess to be spiritual to once again stand up and establish the standards by which the rest of the community must follow. To begin to demonstrate the principles and basis for which we all can take heart and be encouraged. We must have more steel in our collective spine than lead in our collective backside.

If we as individuals will once again raise a true spiritual banner, then every symptom of discord, disharmony and disunity will wither up and disappear like so many other cancers do in the face of the presence of radiation and chemotherapy. The continuous onslaught of the virtues of the spirit, meaningfully and consistently practiced as well as preached, will set an example that the entire community can't help but to follow. We as people of faith and spirit must walk the walk!

"But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law." (Galatians 5:22-23) And that, my friends, is my two cents worth ...�

Pittman continues to work hard with his various ventures while proving that circumstances do not make the man‌the plan makes the man!

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ILLINOIS’ VOICE / VOICE MAGAZINE (2010-PRESENT) VERVE Media Group was started in 2010 by W.E. “Pete” Reeves with a flagship print publication named Illinois’ VOICE. Illinois’ VOICE’s initial objective was to fill a news and information void within Springfield’s African American Community. Like many of his predecessors Reeves saw an untapped market within the African American community. The Company’s New Media platforms currently consists of:   

Online Magazine Publishing through VOICE Magazine (http://www.voicemagonline.com); Internet Radio through HOT217Radio (http://www.Hot217.com); Internet or connected television through VOICETV (http://www.voicemagonline.com/VOICETV).

“We call our operating sites "platforms," intentionally implying that they provide the basis for growth,” Reeves states.

The slogan on its masthead was “THE VOCIE OF THE PEROPLE.”

Left: Illinois VOICE’s Inaugural issue, January 2010.

The company is located at 2519 South Grand Avenue East, Springfield, Illinois.

Illinois’ VOICE was a free publication that was distributed monthly via the internet, specifically via email. The company maintains a large email data base of approximately thirty thousand subscribers. The paper is able to be distributed free of charge as a result of advertiser revenue. “Without the ad revenue, we would be unable to put our publication out.

Other staff and freelance consultants include: Teresa Haley – Senior Social Contributor Demetrius Hudson – Graphics Designer

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Lamar Davis – Graphics Designer Maria Thompson – Web Consultant Right: W.E. Reeves, publisher of VOICE Magazine.

Reeves was born in Springfield, Illinois in August, 1961. He grew up in the John Hay Homes public housing project. Growing up his parents were divorced so he spent all vacations and summers in Chicago where his father had moved at the age of thirteen, Reeves left Springfield lived with his family.” “Chicago was so excited to my younger sisters and I. Whenever we returned from a tip with our father we would come back to Springfield with the latest fashion and slang that we would hear from kids in the neighborhood where my father lived with his parents. My father was a remarkable man. He quit school at a young age to help my grandfather work in fields around Lexington Mississippi where they were from. My family moved North in the early fifties as part of the second Great Migration. Initially, they lived on 62nd and Minerva. By the time I moved the in 1973, they had just moved to 114th and Normal in a neighborhood called Roseland,” Reeves said. “At this time Roseland was a beautiful neighborhood. Our family was the second African American family on the block. What we begin to notice was that all of the white people were moving out and new African American families were moving. I remember that my grandfather had started speaking and conversing with an older white gentleman across the street. They discussed how the neighborhood was changing and new families were moving in. The elder white man told my grandfather that his family was staying and not moving out. Well one day my grandfather noticed that he had not seen the old white guy in a few days. Come to find out they had moved out of the house. We never knew when they moved. We suspected it must have been at night. This is when I witnessed first had “Black flight, white fright,” he continued.

“At this time the U.S. steel mills were booming and families were moving out of the areas that African Americans had originally settled in when moving from the South on the Southside and Westside of the city to the “suburbs” as they were calling it. There was an elementary school a block from our house called Thomas Brennan where I attended seventh and eighth grade. The Black families that moved in ha more children than the whit families that had lived there before so the Chicago School system had to bus some of us to another school a few miles away. They bused us to a then closed school named Edgar Alan Poe. It was strange to see Chicago Transit Authority buses lined up every morning to bus us to the other school. The most striking thing I remember the richness of Chicago, the Black culture. Coming from Springfield, Chicago was like visiting a whole new world fro us and it was. When I moved there at the age of thirteen I had never heard the Black National Anthem, Lift Every Voice and Sing. We would sing it at school. I could not initially because I did not know the words. We never sung it in Springfield schools,” said Reeves.

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Left: The second issue of Illinois VOICE newspaper, February 2010.

Today, Roseland has become one of the most destitute and blighted areas of the city of Chicago ridden with gangs and violence.” I remember in the late 70s the Black Gangster Disciples had moved into a house on the next block and were virtually terrorizing our neighborhood. They turned the house in to a dope invested party house. Our block 114th and Normal was close with the next block of 113 and Normal so we would throw block parties for two straight blocks.

Anyway, the Disciples were trying to recruit the younger guys, partying and being totally rude and disrespectful to the women and girls in the neighborhood. I remember an older guy named Mr. th Barnes. He lived on the 113 Street block of Normal. He and his wife had a large family with about six or seven children. He and his wife divorced and she moved away leaving some of the children with him. Mr. Barnes started drinking a lot and we would see him all the time walking down the street drunk. Well, our neighborhood was into it with the Disciples and Mr. Barnes stepped up and was very vocal telling them he was not afraid of them and our neighborhood was not going to tolerate having them and the things they were doing in it. It was a late summer night and the streets was full of neighborhood people and Disciples. We stood our ground with Mr. Barnes leading and eventually forced them out of our neighborhood. I learned two very important lessons from that event. The first is don’t judge people because everyone has a history and story. Some are good stories some are bad stories. The second was the immense impact that of community unity and community organizing. Mr. Barnes taught us all to take a stand for what’s right,” said Reeves. “I’ll always remember him.” *********** In January 2010, twenty five Hundred copies of the inaugural issue of Illinois’ VOICE were distributed to various locations throughout Springfield’s east side community. The response from the community to the inaugural issue was very good and Reeves printed a second issue in February 2010, the month after the tragic Haiti Earthquake.

“However, with this issue he were getting an overwhelming request from our readers to put the newspaper online, he says. In March 2012, after much research Reeves decided to discontinue the print version and make the publication strictly available online. He recognized that the digital divide was getting narrower and more of the African American market segment were spending more time online. He also recognized that many print newspapers and were either going out of business for good or abandoning the print version of their publications and going online. “It was a very risky move. We were only three months old at the time,” Reeves said. “At the time, online publishing was just starting to take off,” he continued.

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He wrote about the change of design in this MAY 2010 editorial: As you can see the Illinois VOICE has changed its format from that of a traditional community newspaper to an online hybrid publication that combines the best of newspaper and magazine publishing. This change in format was based upon reviews and comments of our first four issues. It is our objective to continue to bring our readers the type of news, views and entertainment that pushes the envelope while at the same time being a forum for our readers. Be sure to visit our new website at: http://www.myillinoisvoice.com This issue if the Illinois VOICE is dedicated to those pioneering civil rights leaders that we have recently lost. We give tribute to Benjamin Hooks for his many years of dedicated service to his community and to the advancement of people of color. This issue‘s cover features the regal Dorothy Height in all her elegance. We also present various photos from Ms. Height‘s funeral along with images and comments from President Obama who eulogized Ms. Height as the “Godmother of the Civil Rights Movement.”

“What we have become recognized for is for our in-depth profiles that we do on people.

Some are the famous and some are the not so famous. “We try to give our readers a unique reading experience so we always looking for the person or persons that are doing something different and spectacular.” said Reeves. “Being a serial entrepreneur myself, we emphasize small business development,” he continued.

“What was beginning to happen was that we were getting more and more recognition from people from all over the country. We were profiling poets from Atlanta and Dallas, models from all over the country, politicians from New York, Illinois, Missouri, business owners from Chicago to Baton Rouge, LA. In our first three years we profiled approximately 140 individuals” At the same time we were finding it difficult to get the local Springfield businesses to place ads with us.,” he said. “I remember going to Mr. Washington the owner of Springfield’s Voice to inquire about working for him to increase his readership. Mr. Washington told me that it was difficult to get advertisers and that he had been virtually subsidizing his paper to get it out from his own wages. I did not realize the truth to what he was saying until I was into it.” He continued.

Realizing that his readers were not just local but from outside of Springfield and covered the United States with many readers in the U.K, South Africa, Kenya, Ivory Coast and Canada, Reeves decided to rename the publication and take it national. “At the time I was doing this I remember having a conversation with T.C. Christian when he decided to rename his publication from Pure News to Pure News USA. Although I think we had different reasons for doing so. One of my main objective was to increase advertiser revenue and I realized that given the social makeup of Springfield, it was difficult getting advertisers to not only place an ad with a new publication but an African American publication in a city that has a history of discriminatory practices,” “In spite of the fact that African Americans spend approximately a trillion dollars per year and is expected 174

to reach $1.1 trillion by 2015, many corporations adhere to “NO URBAN DICTATES” (“NUD”) which is an internal policy discouraging buying advertisements on minorityowned media or media that targets minority groups, regardless of audience or ratings, Reeves said.

"Non-Urban Dictate” is a "supposedly" illegal practice that essentially means that a company is not interested in the Black consumer. Instructions are usually implied orally or left unsaid, no one sends this kind of stuff in an email anymore. A NUD label means that a company does not want their marketing and advertising materials placed in media that claim an "urban" audience (or in other words to African American consumers) as their main target.” “An under-valuing of minorities is real and has long been a plague on the advertising industry. Corporations rely on stereotypes and outdated statistics to tell them that minorities are not consumers (at least not of certain products), so campaigns are not usually targeted with them in mind. The origin of the term Non-Urban Dictate (or No Urban Dictate) is unknown and few companies would use the term, let alone admit that they have NUDs in place,” he continued. “On a national basis, millions of dollars are at stake as minority media outlets face an ongoing "blackout" from national advertisers and the agencies that they hire,” At the time of this writing , Reeves said had contacted two institutions of higher learning in the city of Springfield that had not placed any advertisements in any of the African American newspapers about their Black History Month activities. “The sad part is that both institutions had some excellent activities lined up for Black History Month 2013. A phone call and email to both resulted in one of the institutions placing and ad with his company,” said Reeves. The second had not responded as of the publication of this work. In spite of it all, Reeves believes that the rewards of publishing an online publication far outweigh the challenges.

In June 2011, the publication was officially renamed VOICE Magazine.

VOICE Magazine is an authentic, engaging and stimulating online experience with bold imagery published for today’s African American Urban Professional. VOICE Magazine is a monthly digital publication that provides our readers with information that is important and relevant to them. Whether its news on wealth building, inspiration, culture, wellness, beauty, entertainment, business, sports, or hard news on local, state and federal issues; Voice Magazine provides a unique vehicle that gives African American Urban Professionals a credible voice. Its slogan is, “The VOICE of the Black Community; Your VOICE is our VOICE.” VOICE Magazine prides itself on the excellent writing and creative talents of its many contributors whom include but are not limited to joya, Destine Love, jasira, Letrice Ware, Nicole Renee Boisseau, Michael Johnson, William Bishop III, Abdul Zarif, Joyce Nash, Jacqeline Grier James, Prophetess Jennie, Solphia Linsey, and Sereda Aletra Dailey. “One thing that we are pride ourselves on is providing a forum for aspiring writers to showcase their talent. Over the past three years we have given that opportunity to several individuals that were not writers but we recognized their talent and convinced them to submit samples of their work. These individuals have used our platform as spring board for careers in writing, internet radio, and spoken word performances.” states Reeves.

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In addition to being a publisher, Reeves is a serial entrepreneur, author, and motivator who has become a great inspiration to many successful developers, business owners and community organizations. As a result of his personal knowledge and business oriented skills, Reeves developed a self-empowerment guide for successful achievement entitled Power Principles. His personal motto is, "You are in control of your own life and your own destiny. If you change your "mind", you can change the way you think. By changing the way you think, you can rise to your fullest potential."

In 1992, he was a founding member of Urban Development Group, Inc. (“UDGI”). The other members were Bradley P. Jones, Steve Mills, and Charles Levy. UDGI was a nonprofit development corporation proposed the development of the Near East Side Tax Increment Finance (“TIF”) District in Springfield, Illinois (received city council resolution) which resulted in the creation of the Far East Side TIF District that to date has a total increment of over $3o million. UDGI also proposed the development of the Lincoln Colored Home, on the city’s eastside, which was the first orphanage in the state of Illinois for African American children. The home opened in March 1898. Prior to the establishment of public agencies, the welfare of children was undertaken by private individuals and institutions. The group was unable to obtain the financing because it could not get an appraisal high enough that there lender would accept for the aged structure.

He has worked as a Resource Development Director for the City of East St. Louis, Illinois, developing community revitalization strategies. He was also Economic Development Director for Bullhead City Arizona where he coordinated the and prepared City's ACTION ZONE Grant implementation process performing business and citizen participation measures, survey preparation/analysis and neighbourhood/commercial revitalization strategies resulting in the award of $1.5 million from the State for a distressed area of the City of Bullhead City Arizona.

In 2002 he founded Regeneration Strategies International, Inc. a consulting firm focused on assisting clients with urban planning and development projects. Through Regeneration Strategies he worked with the EnviRes HyMelt® coal gasification plant in Springfield, Illinois, assisting that entity in obtaining $31 million in governmentsubsidized financing and took the project to groundbreaking on April 7, 2004.

In 2007, Reeves started Biofuels America, Inc. (“BFA”). He observed that the high price of oils and our nation’s dependence on foreign oil coupled with our country’s policy commitment to the production of alternative fuels provided a window of opportunity.

In particular high value bio-chemicals and

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Right: EnviRes Groundbreaking, East St. Louis Monitor Newspaper, April 22, 2004. drop-in biofuels such as bio jet fuel. Reeves is a staunch advocate for the emergence of the “green economy” as one of the vehicles that will re-invent the American economy.

“I believe that more African Americans should invest in our nation’s infrastructure.

African American athletes invest in various fast food franchises, automobile dealerships, various real estate developments, and entertainment/sports ventures. What we do own are power plants, water treatment facilities, and bio-refineries that produce non petroleum high value bio-chemicals that are used in various industries such as the pharmaceutical and construction industries worldwide,” he says.

These types of investments would create skilled and semiskilled employment opportunities, especially in targeted disadvantaged urban and rural areas,” he continues.” “I admire the work that Magic Johnson is doing to bring economic development to distressed areas.

However, if our nations power elite African Americans such as Magic, Jay Z, and the host of other African American athletes and entertainers whom have accumulated immense wealth, would invest in new technology companies we could have our own Apples, Microsofts, Peabody Energy companies.” says Reeves.

Left: Site of Project Tennessee, BFA’s biochemical and alternative fuel bio-refinery located at Jasper, Tennessee.

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When asked about the change in masthead design Reeves stated, “In February 2012 , we took the opportunity with our Annual Black History Month issue and the Whitney Houston; Tribute to a Legacy Special Edition, directly upon the late singer’s untimely death to unveil the new logo/header for VOICE Magazine. We were the first media organization to have a Special Edition available before major publishers such as Essence and Ebony had their Special Issues on the market. Below are some covers showing the transition and growth of our publication,” Its website is: www.voicemagonline.com

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HOT217.com An estimated 69 million American listened to online radio in the last month, and the weekly online radio audience has increased by one-third in the last year. The ability to listen to audio they can’t get elsewhere and to control the music being played are the top reasons that people listen to radio online. Almost half of online radio users sat they listen while researching a product or service online, while on-third say they listen while shopping or purchasing online.

Founded in July 2012, HOT217Radio (www.hot217.com)was created to enahnce local radio targeting the African American population in Central Illinois. “ The lack of talk shows gave us an opportunity to create a platform for veteran broadcasters as well as those who are inspired to step into thye world of radio broadcasting for thye first time.” he says.

The HOT217Radio format consists of R&B, Hip Hop and Ole School music in addition to talk radio. Reeves stated, “by being on the Internet our station will have world wide exposre; however, our target area consists of Central Illinois.”

Right: (l to r) Jim Doyle, Richard Barnett, Associate Dean for External Development, Reeves and Alan Whitehead, MP, Southampton Institute, April 2002.

Mr. Reeves has a broad background in urban/economic development and project management. He earned his B.A. in Legal Studies at the University of Illinois in 1990. He served as an intern to Alan Whitehead, U.K. Minister for the Environment in London in 2002, contributing to a comparative study of U.S. and U.K. urban development strategies and developing their “pump up the vote” initiative to increase voter turnout amongst eighteen to twenty four year olds.

Reeves has participated in numerous civic and community economic development initiatives including but not limited to; Co-Founder Springfield Minority Business Council (1992); City of Springfield, Illinois Enterprise Community Steering Committee (1993); Co-Founder Greater Springfield African American Chamber of Commerce (1994); City of Bullhead City, Arizona Economic Development Council (1997); United Way of Central Illinois, Inc. Community Care (Funds Distribution) Panel Volunteer (2000); City of Springfield, Illinois Housing Alliance (2000); and the City of East St.

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Louis, Illinois Waterfront Development Committee (2001-2002); City of Springfield, Illinois Mayor’s Taskforce on Homelessness (2003). In January 2013, he was named to the Board of Directors of the Sangamon County habitat for Humanity.

In 1993, Mr. Reeves was honored by Illinois Times Newspaper as African American Entrepreneur of the Year. In 2002, he was honored by Governor Paul Patton of Kentucky as a Kentucky Colonel, the highest designation bestowed by the State.

Previous Kentucky Colonels are Muhammad Ali, Whoopi Goldberg and Winston Churchill to name a few.

In 2011, Mr. Reeves was honored by the Springfield Branch NAACP with its President Award for Outstanding Social Media Service to the Community. He is also Most Worshipful Master for Jeremiah #159 and District Grand Master, International Free and Accepted Modern Masons.

Reeves believes that the problems plaguing African American communities must be solved from the inside not outside. In his 1998 book entitled, Power to the People; The High Rising Method of Resident Based Community Re-building, he stated, “

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“If we seek to empower the individual at the same time that we seek to empower the community, we would have more than just an increase of bricks and mortar and the associated social programs that accompany such revitalization efforts. This combination is the best plan to regenerate decaying souls and spirits which transforms into a new sense of pride in community and an overwhelming dedication to change ones physical environment.”

In an article published in Springfield’s Voice in 2004, Reeves discusses “The Dilemma of Poverty.”

The dilemma of community degeneration has both physical and nonphysical dimensions that are rooted in poverty. The physical dimension of community decline consists of unsafe deteriorated housing, numerous vacant lots, abandoned buildings, trash littered gutters and streets, graffiti, un-kept yards, gang activity and fly dumping of trash, debris and in some cases human corpses. The non-physical dimensions of community decline are depreciated property values, unemployment, underemployment, drug addiction, alcoholism, illiteracy, high percentage of high school drop outs, teenage pregnancy, high infant mortality, low self-esteem, apathy, hopelessness and despair.

Over thirty years ago Michael Harrington wrote in The Politics of Poverty, “the basic reason why the poor of today differ from those of a generation ago, and therefore require radical measures, if their poverty is to be abolished, is that the economy has changed much in a generation.

In absolute terms and objective indices, the impoverished today are better off than their predecessors in misery, but relatively speaking, in terms of hope and economic opportunity, their plight is much worse.

Moreover, this economic fact has all kinds of social and psychological consequences for the poor.”

The Danger Zones in which the impoverished live were considered ghettos in the past and fit that definition today in every sense of the word. Webster’s defines ghettos as, “a quarter of the city in which members of a minority group live especially because of social, legal, or economic pressure; an isolated group.” In Dark Ghetto, Dr. Kenneth Clark stated, “America has contributed to the concept of the ghetto; the restriction of persons to a special area and the limiting of their freedom of choice on the basis of skin color.” As stated earlier these ghetto areas exist in inner city neighborhoods and rural America. Danger Zones are isolated clusters in which their residents live in a world completely different from mainstream America. In fact, Danger Zones are doing exactly what they were designed to do which is to keep their inhabitants in a constant state of community powerlessness while at the same time maintaining the powerfulness of the status quo. They are being raped of their economic resources because capital has flown out of the area 183

instead of flowing in. The capital outflow has a trickledown effect. The few residents that are homeowners fail to improve their homes and landlords fail to maintain the large abundance of rental properties. As a consequence, property values begin to fall. To add to the mayhem, businesses begin to close or move out of the area. Community residents do not own most of the businesses that remain nor those that are opening. Since non-residents transfer the economic resources to the communities in which they live, residents of Danger Zones must travel outside their own communities to purchase many services and products.

The constant outflow of capital resources ensures a quality of life in which residents live in a continuous cycle of poverty.”

He believes that the first step in revitalizing a community is to foster public and private economic development initiatives. “Although many businesses, community based organizations and municipalities are aware of what needs to be done to revitalize their communities or to increase capital to their organizations, they are unknowledgeable of the process and documentation necessary to bring their ideas into fruition, he says.

“However, our first order of business is to rescue our youth from this destruction violent path they are on. Our young people are murdering one another without reason or remorse. From Chicago to Memphis and New York to Los Angeles, our youth are not only destroying each other but they are destroying the fabric of our communities. When our elderly and our babies are afraid to walk the street for fear of catching a stray bullet, our condition becomes critical, says Reeves. This is best exemplified in the following editorial that he wrote in 2005 after the murders of Baron R. “Fresh: Rice and LaKisha M. Criss: OUR CONDITION IS CRITICAL I am writing in direct response to the recent murders in the city of Springfield. In particular the heinous double murder of a prominent and well respected Black couple. I am also writing directly to our young Brothers and Sisters whose actions and total disrespect for human life have given me a totally ne viewpoint on the condition of our people.

I have come to realize that terrorism comes in may forms. The two most prominent are foreign terrorism and domestic terrorism. An example of foreign terrorism would be the World Trade Center attacks on 9/11, which generated from the Taliban in Afghanistan. On the other hand domestic terrorism is generated at home or domestically. We as a people have been direct recipients of domestic terrorism from slavery, lynching, Ku Klux Klan, Red Shirts, White Citizen’s Council, , police brutality and other acts generated from outright racial hatred.

However, now we are in the mist of a form of terrorism that is both hideous and genocidal and should be of great concern to all of us. What I am talking about if “Intra-Racial Domestic Terrorism” or more plainly 184

“Black on Black Terrorism.” Some may ask, what’s the difference between Black on Black crime and Black on Black terrorism? Webster’s defines a crime as, “an act committed or omitted in violation of a law forbidding it or commanding it and for which punishment is imposed upon conviction or an unlawful activity,” “Terror,” is defined as “intense overpowering fear.” Our young people are committing acts that are both intense and fearfully overpowering.

The recent double murder was a Black on Black Terrorist Act and should provide a wake up call to us all. We have become our own worst enemy.

Robbing and murdering one another without cause and most importantly without remorse. Young Black Brothers and some Sisters caught up in a life of video imagery promoted by corporate America. I am talking about young people who not only have no respect for life but no “love of self.” When you love yourself you love who you are. This selflove transforms into a love for you people.

My plea to my people is simple. We must stop terrorist acts against ourselves. For if we don’t, we are headed into a state where we are breeding massive predators…and we are our own prey.

“The sad part about the above article is that I wrote that in 2005 which was seven years ago. Our condition is still critical. For instance, last year there were five hundred homicides in the city of Chicago. The most of any city at any time in history. The majority of these murders were committed by our young men and women. This dire situation is just not limited to Chicago but exists in metropolitan areas throughout the country. Even right here in Springfield, Illinois we are seeing an escalation of murder by our young against our young and also against anyone else that happens to be in the vicinity when bullets start flying,” Reeves says condemnably. “We’ve had a serious gun problem in this country long before Congresswoman Gabby Gifford was shot while attending a constituent event in Tucson, Arizona in January 2011. . “We’ve had a serious gun problem in this country long before Columbine and Virginia Tech. “We’ve had a serious gun problem in this country long before the mass murder of twenty children and six adults were shot down at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newton, Connecticut on December 15, 2012. However, I think it was the last one that has finally gotten our nation to have a serious gun control debate in order to enact legislation to limit certain types of high impact automatic weapons. At the tie of this writing legislation is currently before Congress. Hopefully, they can stop their partisan bickering long enough to pass something that will help stop this violence,” he continued.

“The problem is that our youth have become numb to their environments and to those inhabiting it. They are plagued with a high dropout rate and an even higher unemployment rate which is estimated at 45%. Most importantly, we have to teach our youth that success is not measured in material gain alone. They must understand that wealth has many forms the most important of which is dedication to self, family and community,” 185

************ In response to the Arab Spring revolts and the Occupy Wall Street Movement, Reeves wrote the following editorial in the October 2011 issue of VOICE Magazine: We all watched the Arab Spring revolts that took place in Tunisia, Egypt and Libya and that are currently taking place in Syria, Yemen and other parts of the Middle East. The common thread among all of these revolutions was immense discontent with government, military and financial elite. As Americans watched this upheaval in various other parts of the world, it became obvious that our goal ―toward a more perfect Union, was faltering. Our democracy which is supposed to guarantee life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for all was enjoyed by a very limited few. It was only a matter of time and the time finally came.

On October 17, 2011, the Occupy Wall Street Movement (―OWM‖) celebrated its one month anniversary of protests in New York. In addition, on October 15, 2011 protests were held in over 900 cities worldwide. Many critics have tried to denounce the OWM because the protesters have made no firm demands. Some carry signs wanting jobs, healthcare and fair taxes. Others are protesting for justice, education, housing and a host of other social and political ills that plague our society.

What they all share in common is the desire to live the American Dream.

As result of corporate greed, tax loopholes and unwarranted subsidies to big oil, we have become a nation of haves and have-nots. I do not believe that any of the protesters have a problem with the accumulation of wealth or the gaining of a legitimate profit. What they do have a problem with is a system in which 1% of the nation‘s population controls the majority of the institutions and wealth while the remaining 99% must carry the burden of lost incomes, lost wealth, foreclosures, job loses, inadequate healthcare and unfair labor practices to name a few.

As a serial entrepreneur and aspiring industrialist, I am a firm believer in the American Dream and lifting one up by one‘s own bootstrap, however like the OWM protesters; I see a bleak economic future for our nation as we struggle to emerge from the economic crisis of the Great Recession. The poor and middle class cannot continue to carry the burden alone. To emerge out of the abyss of this financial chaos that was created by the 1%, all of us must carry our fair share of the weight. The OWM is giving VOICE to the masses. For the benefit of us all we should support their efforts.

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Reeves said that he is not affiliated with any one political party and considers himself to be an Independent. “I have voted both Republican and Democratic in various elections in my life. Ideologically I my politics are center left. However, I am a firm believer in and supporter of President Barack Obama. As such, I have used my publication to support his presidency and his re-election. I also know for a fact that I lost a few advertisers leading up to and during the 2012 election season as a result of my editorials and information that we posted on our websites,” said Reeves. One such editorial was from the December 2011 issue of VOICE Magazine.

On December 6, 2011 President Obama delivered his economic speech in Osawatomie, Kansas. This was the same site used by President Theodore Roosevelt on August 13 1910 when he revealed his vision for America and the upcoming 1912 elections. Roosevelt’s New Nationalism was a call for increased federal power to regulate interstate industry, and sweeping social reforms designed to put human rights above property rights.

Social Security, an eight hour work day, worker’s compensation insurance, a federal securities commission and an inheritance tax were just some of those sweeping social reforms which are still in existence today. Roosevelt believed that “the material progress and prosperity of a nation are desirable chiefly so long as they lead to the moral and material welfare of all good citizens.

“These values gave rise to the largest middle class and the strongest economy the world has ever known. It was here, in America, that the most productive workers and innovative companies turned out the best products on Earth, and every American shared in that pride and success -- from those in executive suites to middle management to those on the factory floor. If you gave it your all, you’d take enough home to raise your family, send your kids to school, have your health care covered, and put a little away for retirement,” stated Obama in his speech echoing Roosevelt’s call to a New Nationalism.

In what he called “the defining issue of our time and a make or break moment for the middle class, and all those who are fighting to get into the middle class, Obama took a big step toward a serious jobs program while embracing the principle of bipartisanship by invoking the progressive side of Republican Teddy Roosevelt’s campaign against the rising inequality of his time. Obama anchored all his arguments with an assault on the growing inequality in the US today, clearly showing the impact of the Occupy movement, and the labor-led victories in Ohio, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Arizona and Maine.

The President targeted four areas in the speech: higher education, infrastructure, progressive taxation, and financial regulation.

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1. Higher Ed: Improving college access is vitally important.

However, we must be mindful that education policy is supply-side.

It’s critical in the medium and long term, but it’s a lesser part of the solution to our biggest short-term challenge: the quantity of jobs. There are many educated people out there that are over 99 weeks without a job.

2. Infrastructure: This is the number one place to invest a lot of energy in setting a jobs agenda. But, as Jared Bernstein, the economist and Executive Director of the newly formed White House Middle Class Working Families Task Force writes: “The key here is to not get hung up on shovel ready-like-it-or-not, we’ll need the work for much longer than that. We need to think about largescale ideas that go beyond roads and bridges.” There is no shortage of work that needs to be done.

3. Tax Reform: As the President stressed in his speech, public infrastructure investment costs money, so fiscal policy must account for it. But, as Bernsteain argues, I agree -keep it very simple: Stop favoring one type of income over another. The distortions in the tax code around “investment income,” like capital gains and dividends, lose mountains of revenue, feed inequality, and are at the heart of the “Buffett problem”- the fact that many of the wealthiest households face lower rates than average folks.

4. Transaction Tax: If nothing else is done (separating investment and commercial banking, etc) making the financial industry INSURE THEMSELVES against their own recklessness is a MUST. The President’s speech was a beacon call to the bold actions needed save the Middle Class and to reel in our economy out of economic chaos. Some still say that the President is inciting class warfare. I say that the promise of American life is the creation of practical equality of opportunity for all citizens.

Reflecting on the 2012 election, Reeves stated, “I know this was going to be a tough election just from the fact that half of the country did not vote for President Obama in 2008. Congress’s inaction and Republican Senator Mitch McConnell’s statement that his party’s number one goal is to make sure that “Obama was a one term president’ set the stage for a partisan war that has hijacked the American economy.” Said Reeves. With the high racial overtones and outright racist slurs by politicians, celebrities and laymen reminded my of Harold Washington’s first campaign for mayor of Chicago. At the time I was a student and Accounting Tutor at Richard Daley College, in an all-white neighborhood of Chicago. We had serious heated debates in class that mirrored the sentiments of the general public. A lot of whites were against Washington but a lot of them supported him as well. In fact, Washington’s coalition building set the stage for 188

Obama’s election strategy and ultimate wins to the state legislature, the U.S. Senate and ultimately the presidency. It didn’t hurt that he had David Axelrod, who was Washington’s campaign manager, at his side, “ says Reeves reminiscing.

In the October/November 2012 issue of VOICE magazine, Reeves wrote the following editorial on the election After the Election…Who Will Own the Political Capital?

As I write this the last of three debates have aired between President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney. Each debate lasted one and a half hours, which in my opinion is way too short to allow a substantive debate on issues instead of who can come up with the most memorable zinger to be used in TV advertisements. With two weeks left until the 2012 elections, the presidential race is in a virtual dead heat. Recent polls show the two candidates tied at 47% each with the remaining being undecided voters. These undecided voters reside in several battle ground states.

In United States presidential politics, a battleground state is a state in which no single candidate or party has overwhelming support in securing that state's Electoral College votes. Such states are targets of both major political parties in presidential elections, since winning these states is the best opportunity for a party to gain electoral votes. Nonswing states are sometimes called safe states, because one candidate has strong enough support that he or she can safely assume that he or she will win the state's votes. To reach these high end voters, both election campaigns and the Super Pacs that support them will likely spend hundreds of millions of dollars on advertisements, the majority of which are negative advertisements toward the opponent.

The Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission United U.S. Supreme Court ruling has changed how presidential races will be fought and won from now until an Amendment to the Constitution to overthrow it.

“Citizens United, decided in 2010, was a landmark United States Supreme Court case in which the Court held that the First Amendment prohibited the government from restricting independent political expenditures by corporations and unions. The Supreme Court held in Citizens United that it was unconstitutional to ban free speech through the limitation of independent communications by corporations, associations and unions, i.e. that corporations and labor unions may spend their own money to support or oppose political candidates through independent communications like television advertisements. Citizens United has often been credited for the creation of "super PACs", political action committees which make no contributions to candidates or parties and so can accept unlimited contributions from individuals, corporations, and unions. Citizens United and SpeechNOW left their imprint on the 2012 United States presidential election: "In any event, the 189

implications of Citizens United were quickly apparent. In March, 2010, the D.C. Circuit ruled that individuals could make unlimited contributions to so-called Super PACs, which supported individual candidates. This opened the door for Presidential campaigns in 2012 that were essentially underwritten by single individuals. Sheldon Adelson, the gambling entrepreneur, gave about fifteen million dollars to support Newt Gingrich, and Foster Friess, a Wyoming financier, donated almost two million dollars to Rick Santorum’s Super PAC. Karl Rove organized a Super PAC that has raised about thirty million dollars in the past several months for use in support of Republicans." Priorities USA Action is an independent expenditure PAC that supports the reelection of Barack Obama. Despite Obama's continuing opposition. such "Super PACs" are currently allowed by law. Priorities USA Action was founded in the face of Republican Super PAC attack ad buys. The Obama campaign states that ... In the aggregate, these groups are expected to spend half a billion dollars, above and beyond what the Republican nominee and party are expected to commit to try to defeat the President.

With so much at stake, we can't allow for two sets of rules in this election whereby the Republican nominee is the beneficiary of unlimited spending and Democrats unilaterally disarm.

With so much outside money coming into the presidential election who will own the political capital of the victor? Will it be owned by the elected President or by the Super Pacs and the donors behind them? According to Wikipedia, “ political capital is the sentiment that a politician has a legitimate political mandate to enact policy in the eyes of the voting public. A politician gains political capital by winning elections, pursuing policies that have public support, achieving success with initiatives, and performing favors for other politicians. Political capital must be spent to be useful, and will generally expire by the end of a politician's term in office. In addition, it can be wasted, typically by failed attempts to promote unpopular policies that are not central to a politician's agenda.

American President George W. Bush claimed to have earned "political capital" after the 2004 elections.” Given who’s putting money behind these campaigns and the policies that they support we should all hope that whoever wins will have the courage to move this country forward and not squander his political capital lavishly on policies that do not support our democratic principles. Let you VOICE be heard…VOTE!!!!

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Left: VOICE Magazine’s THE OBMA ERA; “The Best Is Yet To Come, Volumes I, II and III, Commemorative Issue., February 2013 “For a detailed discussion on President Obama, his life and political career through the second inauguration you should read my book entitled, The Obama Era; “The Best Is Yet To Come,” A Political Anthology. It has three volumes and over three five hundred images,” says Reeves the consummate entrepreneur doing some self-promotion.”

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Conclusion Since the publication of Freedom’s Journal, the first African American newspaper in 1827, the Black Press has emerged as an iconic force within the African American community. It has recorded our nation’s worst hours of race relations s well as its best hours as we have continuously moved forward toward a more perfect union. The publishers and editors of African American newspapers have been numerous over the years. To adequately portray each of those publications would be a tremendous endeavor that would take years to produce. In studying the black press most books focus on a few black newspapers most notably the most prominent such as the Chicago Defender and the Pittsburgh Courier. My objective was to showcase and highlight the various black publishers who have walked the streets of Springfield, lived in its communities and fought for its people.

Today, many black newspapers are closing their doors as we are getting more and more of our news from the internet. This was a decision that I made myself when I first started my newspaper. A decision which has proved to be the best one that I could have made. Although more and more publications are starting online, there is still a place reserved for traditional print publications. As a former professor, John Sipe was told me he” prefers a print newspaper as opposed to a reading his newspaper on line because he like s the smell of it and how it feels in his hands.” This holds true for many people.

It is my sincere desire that this work has provide you with a ,little insight into the lives, careers, challenges and triumphs of those publishers and editors that have come before me. Our work is never done and we continue to move forward to meet publication deadlines and to seek the right story to relate to our readers. Most importantly, we no longer leave to others to tell our story or to speak on our behalf because we will always be “Pleading Our Own Cause.”

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APENDICES

Research Method The research method used for this book entailed visiting the following archives and libraries: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

University of Illinois at Springfield Archives Springfield, Illinois; University of Illinois at Springfield, Brookens Library, Springfield, Illinois; Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, Springfield, Illinois; Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, Springfield, Illinois ; State of Illinois Library Springfield, Illinois, ; and Illinois Supreme Court Library, Springfield, Illinois

A detailed search was doe at the archives via microfilm and hard files. In addition, various editors and staff of black newspapers were interviewed either in person, via phone or via email. Direct conversations were held with surviving family members of editors whom were either deceased or unable to be interviewed as a result of poor health.

This research is documented via the following photos:

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Afi Camara At UIS Archives January 4, 2013

Afi Camara at UIS Archives January 4, 2013

Afi Camara at Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, January 8, 2013

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Afi Camara at Sangamon Valley Collection, Lincoln Library, January 8, 2013

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Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, January 9, 2013

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Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, January 18, 2013

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African American History Museum, January 30, 2013

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Bibliography 1. 1800s Cornish & Russwur, Dr. Clint C. Wilson, II, Department of Journalism Howard University.

2. Ibid, Wilson 3. Alan Morrison, The Crusading Press, In Commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION, Ebony, September, 1963.

4. James D. Williams, The Black Press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.6 5. Reginald Owens, The Journal for Multimedia History, Vol. 3 -2000 Louisiana Tech University, Ruston 6. Ibid, Owens 7. James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.6 8. North Star, www.wikipedia.org 9. James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.7 10. The North Star, 3 December 1847; Reprinted in Philip Foner, ed., Life and Writings of Frederick Douglass, vol. 1 (New York: International Publishers, 1950), p. 280.

11. James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.7-8 12. James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.8-9 13. The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998 14. The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998 15. James D. Williams, The Black press and the First Amendment, National Urban League, 1976, p.8-9 16. The African American Press; With Special Reference to Four Newspapers, 18271965, Charles A. Simmons, 1998, McFarland & Co, Inc. p. 6 17. The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998 18. Ibid 19. Ibid 20. The Black Press: Soldiers without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998 21. The African American Press; With Special Reference to Four Newspapers, 18271965, Charles A. Simmons, 1998, McFarland & Co, Inc. p. 7 22. John Mitchell Jr; The Public Life, Library of Virginia, www.lva.gov/exhibits/mitchell/a-apress.htm 23. Clint C. Wilson II, A History of the Black Press, Published by Howard University Press (1997).

24. The Black Press: Soldiers Without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998 199

25. Johnson Publishing Company, www.johnsonpublsihing.com 26. African - American Consumers: Still Vital, Still Growing 2012 Report, The Nielson Company, 2012 27. The Black Press: Soldiers Without Swords, Stanley Nelson, Half Nelson Productions, 1998 28. The Closing of the Metropolitan Frontier: Cities of the Prairie Revisited 29. Plea of the Negro Soldier and a Hundred Other Poems, Charles Frederick White, Easthampton, Mass, Enterprise Printing Company, 1908 30. Meeropol, Abel, Strange Fruit, International Journal of Epidemiology, (12 July 2006) 31. Booker T. Washington the Politics of Accommodation 32. Lynching, Wikipedia, www.wikipedia.org/wiki/lynching 33. Booker T. Washington, Up From Slavery, Double Day & Co., 1901, Chapter XIV 34. Ibid 35. W.E. Burghardt DuBois, The Souls of Black Folk (Chicago, 1903) 36. Booker T. Washington, ww.wikipedia.com 37. Negro Year Book, 1918-1919, Monroe N. Work, ED., Tuskegee Institute, 1919, p.427 38. National Liberty Party Names Scott and Payne, St. Louis Republic, July 8, 1904.

39. Ibid 40. Ibid 41. The Forum, September 5, 1908, p7 42. Ibid 43. The Forum, September 5, 1908, p1 44. The Forum, March 6, 1909 45. The Forum, March 13, 1909 46. The Forum, March 20, 1909.

47. Summary of riot report; “It is time for action…”, Chicago Daily News, Friday, March 1, 1968 48. The Fires of Summer, Harold H. martin, Saturday Evening Post, April 20, 1968 49. The Achievements of a Race, 1980, Inman Foster Jr., p. 2 50. Cecil Partee Memoirs, Illinois General Assembly Oral History Program p 63, 1982 51. William Ashby, Tales Without Hate, 1980 52. The Chronicle, July 21, 1951, p. 1 53. Black Politics in the Age of FDR 54. Eugene Kinckle Jones: The National Urban League 55. Alain Locke, ed., The New Negro: An Interpretation (New York: Macmillan, 1925) 56. Autobiography: The Collected Works of Langston Hughes, Vol. 14. Columbia Missouri: University of Missouri Press. P. 307Langston Hughes, Joseph McLaren ed. (2002) 57. Photographic Legacy; Eddie Winfred “Doc” Helm, The Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum, February 23-June 9, 2012 58. Ibid 59. Ibid 60. 1968, www.wikipedia.com 200

61. Stokely Carmichael, King Encyclopedia, The Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute, Stanford University, Accessed 20 November 2006 62. Stokely Carmichael, King Encyclopedia, The Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute, Stanford University, Accessed 20 November 2006 63. John Henrik Clarke, A Great and Mighty Walk 64. State Journal Register , 5/11/97 p.9c 5 65. Ibid 66. Urban Renewal Puts On A New Face, Social Justice Reporter, 1983 67. Interview with John Crisp , March 4, 2006,Interviewer: Cheryl Goza Smith 68. Corrupt East St. Louis; Laboratory for Black revolution, G. Louis Heath, The Progressive, October 1970 69. Ibid 70. Ibid 71. Ibid 72. State Journal Register, Nov 7, 1968 73. State Journal Register, Nov 7, 1968 74. Negros Take Job Problems To Council; Complain Of Lack of New Industry, State Journal Register, April 30, 1968 75. Ibid 76. Ibid 77. Pickets Protest Lack of Negroes On County Juries, State Journal Register, March 16, 1970 78. Pickets Protest Lack of Negroes On County Juries, State Journal Register, March 16, 1970 79. Black Spirits Take Protest from Streets to City Council, State Journal Register, March 18, 1970 80. Ibid 81. Board Minutes, B.A.M., January 16, 1969 82. Ibid 83. Board Minutes, B.A.M., January 16, 1969 84. Lifeblood of Church, Aiken Standard, August, 24, 1974 85. Judge Rules Against City in Voting Rights Challenge, State Journal Register, Jan. 13, 1987 86. Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 55 (Monday, May 8, 2000 87. Peniel E. Joseph, The Black Power Movement, Democracy, and America in the King Years, American Historical Review 88.Ibid 89. Peniel E. Joseph, The Black Power Movement, Democracy, and America in the King Years, American Historical Review 90. William H. Washington Oral History, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Libraryhttp://www2.illinois.gov/alplm/library/collections/oralhistory/AfricanA mericanHistory 91. Ibid 92. Ibid 93. Ibid 94. State Journal Register 95. Ibid 201

96. Ibid 97. Ibid 98. Reader in Marxist Philosophy by Howard Selsam, Harry Martel (1987),p224 99. Malcolm X, The Autobiography of Malcolm X 100.

John Henrik Clarke, A Great and Mighty Walk 101.

Frank McNeil, et al vs. City of Springfield, Illinois, et al. 658 F.Spp. 1015 (1987) 102.

Blacks’ Lawsuit Likely to Change Way City Council is Elected, State Journal Register, April 14, 1985 103.

Blacks’ Lawsuit Likely to Change Way City Council is Elected, State Journal Register, April 14, 1985 104.

We Must Fight For an End To At Large Elections, The Pure News, Vol 3, No. 11, November 1985, p. 1 105.

Frank McNeil, et al vs. City of Springfield, Illinois, et al. 658 F.Spp. 1015 (1987) 106.

Black Alderman Sedate In Last Act of Voting Rights battle, Associated Press, December 1, 1987 107.

Publisher Horace Livingston Jr. celebrated for giving Voice to AfricanAmericans, Bob Fallstrom, Herald & Review, April 22, 2007 108.

Ibid 109.

Decatur Pays Tribute to Livingston Brothers, February 26, 2007, Bob Fallstrom, Decatur Herald & Review 110.

The Voice of the Black Community, February 8, 1979 111.

Ibid 112.

“Pittman Took Long, Hard Road to Springfield,” State Journal Register, August 13, 1995.

113.

One Black Paper Shatters Taboos, mark Fitzgerald, January 1, 2007, Editor & Publisher Magazine

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR Afi Camara is an author, editor, motivator and serial entrepreneur. He has ben involved in community/economic development in both the public and private sector, which prompted the writing his first book, Power to the People; The High Rising Method of Resident Based Community Re-Building ion 1998. He is also involved in the alternative energy industry and is a majority partner in Biofuels America, Inc., an alternate fuel and high value bio-chemical company. He is also the CEO of VERVE Media Group which is a new media firm that uses the internet to disseminate information to the African American community via the publication VOICE Magazine (www.voicemagonline.com), internet radio via HOT217Radio (www.hot217.com) and internet television via VOICETV. Afi Camara has two children Malcolm X. Beal Reeves and Gabriel Reeves. He currently lives in Springfield, Illinois.

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