Toledo union journal. [volume] (Toledo, Ohio) 1942-current, 1946-04-11
Our Common Purpose

Regardless what the outcome Ol ule III
come.PayroII Tax referendum may be, II
is apparent that most of the people VINO
took part in the controversy are inter-
eSted in making Toledo a better and more
progressive city.
With that goal-the advancement oi
ToIedo-to unite us, there isn't any reason
why every group in this city should not
sit down in common council and explore
each others ideas for the purpose OF hit
ting upon ways and means of turtherlng
our own and the interests of Toledo.
The bitter fight through which we have
passed over retention or rejection OF the
Income Payroll Tax should teach us that
we must have mutual respect for each
others views and be willing to strive for
some honorable compromise which Would
be of mutual benefit to the various eco
nomic groups who are trying to earn their
living in this city.
No group can possibly profit for long
at the expense of any other group without
arousing resentment and setting the stage
for more controversy. Whether it be labor,
industry, real estate of any other group,
each must respect the other and not at
tempt to take unfair advantage.
1t is our belief that labor is aware Of its
responsibility to this community and has
demonstrated this responsibility In many
ways in the past few years. We need only
point out the constructive and progressive
part played by labor in the LabOr-Manage-
ment-C Citizens Committee since its lorna
ton to illustrate this point.
What labor has contributed to the ad-
vancement of industrial peace, 1t can and
will do for the city as whole.
Despite the irresponsible charges which
have been cast at labor and Its leadership,
the fact remains that ii Is to labOr's lead
ership that industrial and civic leaders
look when faced with problems which af-
feet the well being of this city.
Certainly, II labor leaders are eompe-
tent to lead their members in the settle
ment of matters which affect the indus
trial welfare of this city, they are equally
competent 10 represent their members IN
planning and executing plans which would
advance the welfare of the city as whole.
One thing is certain, labor is not going
to be ignored or called in at the last min
uto ds ncCCSohIJ CNh huSh pS w.
Grated and be expected to play an impOr-
tant part in saving situations planned and
approved in advance by few individuals
who have selected themselves rs the self
appointed SaviOrs of Toledo.
Labor has grown up and acquired its
long pants. 1t is capable of accepting full
partnership in our municipal corporation
and il will not he content with playing a
StOoge role.
II is our belief that labor today Is ready
and willing TO take its place as a reSpon-
Sible party in the formulation of planning
a program for Toledo. Until this occurs
we shall continue to founder in n house
divided against itself in which progress
not only comes to a StandStill, but Rctu-
ally goes backward.
Our common purpose is to make Toledo
n progressive and dynamic city in which
we can live, and work, and play, and to
which we can point with pride Rs one of
Americas really great cities All we need
Is little more common sense, a little
less selfishnesS, and little more willing
ness to get along together.
Let us hope that Thursdays election
will speed the day when we can unite In
program acceptable to all and from which
all may gain. N~