The Indianapolis journal. [volume] (Indianapolis [Ind.]) 1867-1904, 1885-06-01
Non-Partisan Prohibition League.

To the Editor of the indianapolis Journal:
At the time of its organization, about the lst
of January, the Journal gave, as an item of cur
rent news, some notice of this organization; but
its growth and the general favor with which it is
received justify a more detailed notice Goaded
by the management which, on separate party
ticket, developed only 10000 as the prohibition
strength of this entire Nation in a vote of more
than TO- 10000 an extensive correspondence re-
suited in convention about the 1st of Jan
methods, as follows:
"Objects-First the enforcement of laws
against the liquor traffic.
Second, the withdrawal of legal sanction
from the liquor traffic
Third. the suppression of the liquor traffic
Fourth, our ultimate purpose is, by consti-
tutioaal and statutory provisions, to Danish the
liquor traffic from the land
misunderstanding partisan entangements,
we announce our sole purpose to be the suppress
sion of the liquor traffic; and for this we propose:
First, to create and intensity public sentiment
by the pulpit, the platform and the press. Sec
ond to educate the young, In the public schools
and elsewhere, as to the nature and effects of
alcoholic liquors. Third to use all legitimate
civil legislation and to refer the question, for
final decision. to the constitutional verdict of
the people," To which they append the follow
es, creeds, parties and States to unite on this
platform. and work and vote against the liquor
traffic without exposing the cause with its varied
interest is to the personal schemes of politicians
and the perils of party politics.
The organization at once sprang into vigor-
Gus local existence securing the cooperation of
men long known to be Prohibitionists, but who
had not seen proper TO go into the political party
movement. Their record is proof of their earn
estness in the cause and their social standing
gives their movement great influence. The
name of the association is the National League,
and Mrs. j. Ellen Foster is travelling and
lecturing on prohibition and organizing branch
leagues. Ought we not form one in Indianapolis
This league, though composed of those who donot
believe that temperance political party is the
best thing possible, is not formed for the pur-
pose OF assailng that or any other political par
ty, but to suggest and direct better way. Can
we consistently object to any measures that
others may propose while we sit idly by and
propose nothing2 This question is ripe. The
arrogance of the liquor traffic is forcing it. not
only upon our social life bat upon our political
life much more than anything said done by
Prohloltlonists can possibly do. If we
are indifferent others will take the management
OF affairs. If any person feels inclined to form
such league in Indianapolis, and to invite the
talented Mrs Foster to visit us in the fu-
ture, | would be glad to receive postal card to
that effect. and follow any suggestion that may be
made. 1t is not matter of choice with US whether
this question shall enter INTO future politics
or not, for the liquor sellers have thrust it in.
and 1t is there TO stay. Our only choice is as to
methods Shall we allow few to organize it
into political party, shall we take hold IF it
and manage it in non partisan way2 If we
neglect or refuse to lead in this matter, we must
rot censure those who assume leadership.
Il. A. GOODWIN