Memphis daily appeal. [volume] (Memphis, Tenn.) 1847-1886, 1882-11-01
The C0Iored Voters

There are symptoms of unrest among the
colored voters in the Northern States In Penn
sylvania New York. Rhode Island and in this city
there is q feeling that the Republican party does
not concede the "Iurn about which the proverb
says is fair play. The services rendered by that
party to the coored race in securing for its people
freedom and supplementing this with political
and civil rights, are gratefully remembered; but,
never felt the degradation Of slavery, there is a
growing conviction that almost twenty years of
should bring 10 colored voters who are worthy Of
it the recognition and reward which given to
and nationaiities This feeling has found its full
est and most pointed expression in the convention
which was recently held at Newport R. /.
The papers of that city spoke in compli-
which characterized the proceedings. and of the
evident esrnestness of those who participated.
The principal addresses were made by the Rev.
Mr.. Anderson and Mr.. George 7. Downing. The
former gentleman spoke of the almost unanimous
support given to the Repub party by The col
ored voters for the past eighteen years. and
claimed that, in nearly every State where the
gin is close this vote has given the victory to the
his that party for liberty and the suffrage,
but claimed that both were granted more to save
the Union and strengthen the party than as a di.
rect boon unselhshIy given to the colored man as
his right. The speaker declared that it is only
to be accorded some other recognition of citizen
ship than the privilege of voting for some white
man." He would not ask this because we are
black men, but because are citiaens entitled to
all equal ,hare of representation and pa.
trOnage- heSOlullOns anu an duOfeSs were duOpteu
by the convention declaring that the Republican
party has Jailed to properly recognize the WORTH
ness and faithful devotion of its colOred adher-
ents," and that while cling to the principles
which have made the party acceptable to the
people, and would adhere steadfastly TO Its nomi
nations, affirm our determination to support
that pers IL. let him be allied 70 whatever party
he may, who shall convince us that be has the
most regard for our rights and feelings as citi
GEMS" Common respect aud a fair representation
in appointments are demanded, mot simply be-
cause bf the money consideration but that 1T may
be that class is respected and deferred 10
are other citizens" The address sets forth the
grievances of the race with evident feeling. I'VE
desire it be noted, :" it declares athat we de
Inand no more than the respect that is accorded
to all others; no more than our CHARACTERS and at
emit" it ccntinEes. Titqhen respect and con
sideratTon are manifested, all classes OF
the body polite, save one, are considered This
prescription manifess itelf in the professions, in
banking houses, at the mechanics bench, IN
marts, in political parties, as well as in the civil
service of the government" This last proscrip'
ton is now attached, because the inius Ice in
wolves disregard and fosters contempt; 1t keeps
us from being properly respected in other direc
tions it depriyes us of the opportunity of enjoy,
lug that practical experience in the Management
aud conduct of governmental affairs which 1t Il
such an appeal, taken upon these groupdg. Will
be met by the sympathy of all democratic lovers
of fair play. So far rs the appotntive Offices are
concerned, the colQred voters should support the
plans of the c1vil-service reformers. That will
place their aspirants for Office upon equal ground
| OF merit without regard to color or influence.