N. A. A. C. P. LEGAL DEFENSE AND EDUCATIONAL FUND, INC.

20 WEST 40TH STREET, NEW YORK 18, N. Y.

CABLE ADDRESS: NACAPEOPLE, N.Y.

LONGACRE 3-6890

March 23, 1951

Miss Hazel Amos
136 Smith St.
Newburgh, N. Y.

Dear Miss Amos:

I was happy that you could be with us at our dinner to honor Ralph Bunche on January 24th. You will be interested in the enclosed copy of his magnificent address.

I believe you will agree that the attendance and the interest exhibited that evening proved that the occasion was not only a tribute to Dr. Bunche, who himself deserves every recognition of his fellow citizens. It was also a testimonial to the fact that what his career symbolizes - the epic of a poor boy coming from a disadvantaged group and rising to world prominence because of native ability - is something precious to every American who loves his country. It furnished one of those rare opportunities to look at things in a fresh light and to realize that this country, where such a career can come to fulfillment, is worth fighting for.

It has been heartening to learn that so many friends who joined with us in honoring Ralph Bunche, intend to do their share in supporting the organization in which he takes a leading part, the N.A.A.C.P. Legal Defense and Educational Fund. We who are engaged in this work believe that the achievement of equal opportunity for all our citizens is one of the most essential steps in defeating the current Soviet Communist propaganda line. They seek to convince three-quarters of the people of the world who are colored that lynching, exploitation and discrimination against colored races is a fundamental characteristic of American society.

We can report to you that $30,000 was subscribed as a tribute to Dr. Bunche in advance of the dinner toward the 1951 Appeal for $250,000 of the N.A.A.C.P. Legal Defense and Educational Fund. We should like to feel that we shall have your continuing support in the work that lies ahead. You can help through your (tax-deductible) contribution to this drive made out to the N.A.A.C.P. Legal Defense and Educational Fund. You can be sure that we greatly appreciate your assistance.

Contributions are deductible for U. S. Income Tax Purposes