The Birmingham age-herald., 1902-11-28

N HE following letter has been re- lCk ceiyed from Booker T. Washing
 ton, the negro educator. explain ing his connection with southern politics. To the Editor of The Age Herald:
 l notice that several newspapers have recently connected my name with political matters in such manner as to show that my position is misunder- stood. l desire, therefore, to make the following statement:
 My life work is the promotion of the education of my race. It is well known that I have always advised my people that it is of supreme import ance, at this period of their develop aent, that they should concentrate their thought and energy on the se- curing of homes, the cultivation of habits of thrift, economy. skill, intel ligence, high moral character, and the gaining of the respect and confidence both in the south and in the north. From such teaching and counsel, no influence can ever divert me.
 Whatever conferences have had with the President or with any public official have grown out of my position, not as a politician, but as an educa- tor. It should be borne in mind that there are about nine millions of ne- groes in the United States, who are liable under the law for taxes and military service, and who are punish able for infraction of the law. These people at present have no member of their race in the national law-maling body, and it is right that those the laws of the land should at times seek information directly from mem- bers of the negro race when their interests and their relations with the whites among whom they live are con- cerned.
 Under no circumstances could seek to rl,mote political candidates or volunteer information regarding men or measures, nor have I done so in the past; but because of the im- portance 1 have always sought to place upon education and industry among my people as the bases of friendly relations between the races, there may be occasions in the future as there have been in the past, when, if l am so requested, can give in- formation about men and measures, which would tend to promote such friendly relations be.weeu the races, such il ,crmation it is my duty U give when it is asked for.
 At C cry proper oppol unity l say to the youth of our people that they will mcFe a mistake if they seek to succeed in life by mere political activ- ity CT the hope of holding political office. Now and then, ho,cve- pub lie questions affecting our interests arise which are so fundamental and far-reaching that they transcend the domain of politics. When such ques- tions present themselves, in justice to my race, I make my position known and stand for what I see to be the right.
 We cannot elevate and make useful race of people unless there is held out to them the hope of reward for right living. EVERY REVISED CON- STiTUTION THROUGHOUT THE SOUTHERN STATES HAS PUT A PREMIUM UPON INTELLIGENCE, OWNERSHIP OF PROPERTY, THRIFT AND CHARACTER.
 As an educator, and not as politi- clan, strive in every honorable and rational way to encourage the wise and enduring progress of my people; for if all inspiration and hope of reward is to be denied them, they will be deprived of one of the greatest incentives to intelli- gence, industry. and righteousness. On the other hand. if they are encouraged in sensible and conservative directions they will grow year by year into contentedness and added usefulness.
 BOOKER T. WASHINGTON.
 Tuskegee, Ala, November 24. 1902.
 Dedicated to America.