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Letters From the Nation's Clergy

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    My dear Mr. President:

  1. In reply to your letter of September 24, I beg to state first that I do not feel competent to advise you on economic problems. Nevertheless I realize your desire to have the opinions of those close to local situations.

  2. I am much in favor of the Social Security legislation. As far as the Works Program and its administration among the people of Harlem, I am constrained to say that discrimination and inequality exist. The Negro is not receiving the fair amount of jobs in the several projects that have been set up; in fact, I feel that the whole works program is so full of problems and difficulties that I seriously question the practical nature of it. Its intention, of course, is excellent; its difficulties are almost insurmountable.

  3. Assuring you of my interest and support in the carrying out of your staggering responsibilities, I am,

    Respectfully yours,

    John H. Johnson, Vicar
    The Church of St. Martin
    Lenox Avenue at 122nd Street
    September 28, 1935