Microfilm Reel 229, File 152, "African Americans"

have opposed the party and the latter recognized in the appointments. I cannot conclude that the President is correctly informed of the true situation that confronts many of his true friends; I cannot believe he would leave us so neglected; it cannot be possible that his attention has been directed to the fact that many places under the administration are filled by colored Republicans, places that would be refreshing and appetizing to capable colored Democrats and places that would not need confirmation of the nominees by the Senate. This condition does not exist in Washington alone but is prevalent throughout the country.

In conclusion, I trust you will accept this letter in the spirit in which it is written and further pray that you will accord a hearing to a deputation of several loyal colored Democrats from various Western States, that we may plead our cause and I assure you, that the delegation will acquit themselves to the satisfaction of the President and yourself.

I am taking the liberty of having this communication presented in person by the Hon. Charles B. Smith, M.C. from my District, who will vouch for any courtesy shown us.

Very respectfully yours,

James A. Ross

JAR/H.

39. E. Chippewa st Buffalo, NY.

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Buffalo, N.Y. March 24, 1916.

Hon. Charles Bennett Smith, Member of Congress, Washington, D.C.

Dear Congressman:

I am taking the liberty of enclosing you a letter that I hope you may see that it reaches Secretary Tumulty. As I have been in correspondence with those who worked with me in the West during the 1912 Campaign, they think it time for them to appear in person before the President.

1 believe Secretary Tumulty will grant us the audience, as we who made the fight in the Western States have been in nowise recognized.

I am in a receipt of an enclosure from Judge Wade, coming from R.S.Hudspeth of New Jersey, stating that he had talked with the President in regards to appointing Colored men to office. This letter is under date October 1913 but there was considerable opposition to appointing any Colored Democrat to Federal office. This opposition was manifest under all other administrations but the Presidents appointed them nevertheless.

Please take care of this and let me hear from you at your early convenience.

Very truly yours, J. A. Ross Atlon

[handwritten note] I thought I would enclose Judge Hudspeth's letter. In [?] I think it would be [?] for you show it to Tumulty. Judge Hudspeth was head of Neg Bureau and knows of every work. Do not lose [?]

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Ackd 4/5/16

April 4th 1916

Hon. Woodrow Wilson

Dear Sir

Will you please send us a letter to be read at our anniversary.

We know that you cannot attend - is the reason we wish for [?] as a few line. On this occasion would like to be honored with encouragement from the head of the Land. [?] R.B. Robins [?]

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[image: American Flag]

54TH ANNIVERSARY Of DISTRICT EMANCIPATION MONDAY NIGHT. APRIL 17, 1916. UNDER THE AUSPICES OF THE NATIONAL CO-OPERATIVE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA, (Incorporated)

At Mt. Pleasant M. P. Church, 101 g ST. S. E. Washingion, D. C.

RECEPTION COMMITTEE: Mrs. Laura E. Gross, Chairman. Mrs. Emma Voung. Mrs. Jennie Queen. Mrs. Johnson. Rev. I. E. Gross, Pastor.

SPECIAL INSTRUMENTAL AND VOCAL MUSIC. Speakers of National reputation have been invited to speak and will be present.

REV. R. B. ROBINSON, President National Co-Operative Association.

Refreshments Served at Conclusion of Exercises. Admission Free.

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Rv R. B.Rohmers Past The National Co-Operative Association,

ROOM 5. 607 LOUISIANA AVE. N.W., WASHINGTON, D. C.

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