-
Minutes of Board Meeting
Urban League of Portland
6 S W Sixth Avenue
Downtown YWOA - Room 204, 10:30 A0M., Friday, Jan, 10, 1947
The meeting of the Board of Directors of the Urban League of Portland was cafled to
order at 10:37 A.M., Dr. Unthank presiding.
The following Directors were present:
Mrs. Elliot Corbett
Mr. Francis Kern
Mr. David 11binson
Mrs Clifford Walker
Mr. William Brewster, Jr.
ith
M 0liver-.
Mrs. gary Duncan
Edwin C. Berry, ex officio
Dr. Lorin Kerr
MINUTES:
Minutes were read and approved upon motion by Mrs. Qorbett and second by Mr. Smith.
BUDGET:
Mr. Kern, our Treasurer, reported on budget matters and negotiations with the
Community Chest. He read excerpts from our letter to Mr. Reed, secretary of the Chest.
This letter outlined our request for additional funds and explained in detail our need
for them. (Letter attached.)
The additional items requested were:
1.
2.
3.
4
Rent - increase and expansion .................5l0.00
Reinodelingofficespace........................ 200.00
Retirement Fund. . , . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
597.00
. . . .
Mimeograph machine... . . . . . .. . . . . . ..... . . . . 669.00
Mr. Kern felt there would be no question about the first three items but that there was
definite question concerning the. mimeograph machine.
Mr. Kern also mentioned that the Chest Budget Committee had voluntarily offered
to increase our allocation by l000 and requested us to reduce our anticipated revenue
from other sources by a corresponding 1000.00. This obviously would do us no good.
Mr. Kern and Mr. Berry conferred with Mr. Reed on this point. Mr. Reed felt that the
amount we expected to raise through dues, gifts, and revenue was too great.
He did,
however, express a willingness for us to increase our membership dues from 1.00 to
2.00 annually. Mr. Kern also felt that w might use the sustaining and contributing
memberships as a method of increasing revenue as some other agencies do.
DISCUSSION:
Mr. Brewster commented and made four
1.
2.
3.
4.
salient points as follows:
Our letter to Mr. Reed was good.
Mr. Reed does not want agencies to go out on aggressive membership
campaigns. It is all right for us to invite friends and interested persons
to join and to call our membership to the attention of persons at our
meetings.
Perhaps we should postpone consideration of sustaining memberships for
another year.
He favored the raising of dues to 2.00.
Page 2
Minutes of theMeeting of Board of Djrectors
January 10, 1947
Mr. Robinson asked how much membership shrinkage we might expect from the
contemplated raise in dues. It was the consensus of the group that very little shrinkage would result from those tho are really interested.
rs. Corbett mentioned that one person had told her that she did not want any
literature from the League; that she was already overburdened with literature.
Corbett wondered if there were many others who shared the feeling.
M
It was the consensus that most persons felt we should increase the number of reports
and releases from the League.
MOTION BY MR. ROBINSON, SECOND BY MB, JRN THAT OUR MEivEH5HIP DUES BE R&ISED TO
ANNUALLY, SUBJECT TO ThE RATIFICATION OF MEMBEiSHIP AT ANNUAL MEETING.
2.0O
COMMITTEE APPOINThIENTS
Dr. Unthank appointed and instructed the following Committees:
1.
Annual Meet ing
Mr. Robinson
Hill, Chairman
Mr. Green
Mr0
Nominating
2
Mrs. Smith
.
Mr. Hamilton, Chairman
Personnel Practices
Mrs. Duncan
Mrs. Corbott, Chairman
Rev. Stone
All appointees accepted assignment.
F.E , P IC
Mr. Berry reported on F.E,P.C, in the absence of Mr. Green.
(Report Attached.'I)-
DISCUSSION:
Mr. Kern asked if it might not be wise to withhold the introduction of a Bill
until 1949 in view of the composition of the current legislaturewhen it seeni. almost
impossible to get favorable consideration for liberal legislation.
Mr. Smith said he felt it would do more harm than good to the cause to introduce
the Bill now.
Mr. Robinson felt the Bill should be introduced; that the educational effects of
discussion and publicity would far outweigh an negative effects and that the FOE.P.
Committee had worked and, was definitely committed to the introduction.
Page
Minutes of the Board of Djrectors Meeting
January 10, .947
3
BACCAULAUREATE PROGRAM OF COMMERCE AND LINCOLN HIGH SCHOOLS
Mr. Robinson reported that there are several signs of healthy social progr8ss on
the horizon. Amongthem are the implications of the intercultural education program in
the public schools. Mr. Robinson has been active in this program, acting as an advisor and
furnishing stimuli and materials for use. Last spring Mr. Robinson helped the Student
Committee of Commerce and Lincoln plan the Baccaulaureate exërie. Thselected, instead
of one minister, three - a priest, a rabbi, and a protestant. It was such a success that
the students wished to repeat the program for the February graduation class with one
minor alteration. They wish the protestant minister to be a Negro. Mr. Robinson is
again advising the Committee. Rev, L. 0. Stone has been invited as the protestant
participant0 Mr. Robinson's report was received with coniuiendatn.
CIVIC UNITY:
Dr. Kerr reported on the progress of the Civic Unity Countil.
(Report attached.)
NIGGER BOY ROSE:
Mr. Berry exhibited an adverbientent which has been running in the Journal, Sunday
Garden Section. It is advertising rose called UNigger Boy." Mr. Berry felt some action
should, be taken by the League.
A Lively discussion folJ.owed,with some difference in the interpretation of tk
harmful effects of such advertising. Mr. Robinson, who is a member of the American Rose
Society, volunteered to take the following actdon:
To write the AmericanRose Society requesting that the name be excluded
from registry.
2. To write Mr. Hennesy, the advertiser..
1.
3o
To write Mr. Collins, editor of the Garden Section of the Journal.
This action met with unanimous approval of the Board of Directors,
MEETING ADJOURNED 12:03 P.M.
the office space is woefully inadequate. We do not have privacy of
interviewing,
sufficient space in reception room or storage space. Dr Unthank can make
an ad
ditioria]. room available.
The retirement fund is authorized and encouraged by the
Chest. The mimeograph is needed for
efficiency of office operation. If we are per
xn.itted to hold our present outside income with the present Chest
allocation, we will
need an additional l83.26 to balance our budget for 1947.
A highly discussion followed relative to memberships.
Mr Hamilton stated that at the time the League was organized
the Chest stated the
ability to biild a sustaining mernbership---was one criteria by which
the success of
the organization could be measured.
Mr Robinson stated he resented any interference with the growth of the Urban
League
membership.
Mr Berry pointed out the Council of Social Agencies's,study of the
Urban League ,had
recommended that we make an effort to get a larger membership.
IT WAS MOVED BY REV STONE, SECONDED BY IflS DUNCAN THAT THE BUDGET
COhfliITTKE ALONG WITH
THE EX.ECUTIVE, INTERVIEW MR REED RELATIVE TO OUR BUDGETARY SITUATION.
MOTION CARRIED.
Still other points made on this subject were:
1. Memberships come without extra cost to us.
2. That our membership is of great assistance in promoting
our Program.
3. Perhaps we should seek sustaining and contributing juem
berships to increase income.
Mr Berry reported that the Urban League had been given lOO by
a friend, who had no
previous direct contacts with the Urban League, but whose wife knew of our work.
The donor was Mr Roy Feldenheiiner. He said it was sort of a Christmas
present to
the organization.
Adjournment at 12:00 Noon.
Minutes of Board Meeting
Urban League of Portland
6 S. W. 6th Avenue
Y. W. C. a., H.00m 2O4 February 28, 1947
The meeting was called to order by the Chairman, Dr. Untharik, at l0:O A. M.
The following directors were present:
Mr. Irving Anna
C. N. Austin
Mr. B. Shelton Hill
Mr. William Brewster
Mr. Francis Kern
Father George J. Campbell
Kenneth F. Smith
Mrs.
Mrs. Elliott Corbett
L. 0. Stone
kiev.
Mrs Mary Duncan
Dr. DeNorval Unthank
Mr. Edwin C. Berry, Executive Sec'y
R.ev.
The minutes of the previous
Dr. Unthank welcomed the £1CV members to the Board.
corrections.
meeting were read and accepted with necessary
Board members
Mr. Hill reported on the Annual Meetiig. Mr. Hill stated that all
meetings
of
this
particular
kind, with
were present. It was one of the largest
All
participants
assumed
their
own
expenses.
1200 or l00 people attending,
A lengthy
20O.00.
Approximately 7S.00 was collected. Expenses will run about
people will
One
member
wondered
how
many
discussion ensued on the Annual Heport.
number of additional
read this type of report. Mr. Berry mentioned that the
of
whether
people
are reading it.
copies requested may be an indication
taking
Father-Campbell suggested that we go down the list of big organizations,not
the Board send
copies;
also
that
each
member
of
too much for granted, and mail them
in names of people to whom we think should receive the Annual Heport.
Mr Brewster suggested that we get a list of the Boards, Neighborhood Councils,
Chamber of Commerce, Civic Groups, etc., and send them copies of the report.
to the
It was further suggested that sometning be done in primer form to be sent
The
Boys
League.
type of person who mows nothing d'oout the program of the Urban
referred
to
as
an
example.
and Girls Aid Society pamphlet was
that they
Mr Berry asked that the Board discuss the contents oi' the report so
of purpose.
Lit,
thus
making
lb
a
declaration
might approve the document if they see
enlarged.
Mr. Brewster commented that he would line to see 1947 accomplishments
Mr.
Brewster
JOVED
THAT
People like to go along with successful organizations.
COLiIJWED
THE
STaFF
ON
THE
CbiHD h5 AFPHOVING THE RJrQhT AND
THE BOAnD GO oN
MOTION
VAS SECONDED BY iA. hILL AND CAARIED.
)PIm DONE.
length the
Discussion relative to the Hed Cross Speech.. The Board discussed at
Mr. Berry
announcement concerning the Hed Cross Drive made by Mrs. Lamar Tooze.
agreed
that
stated that the Annual Moeting Committee, after mucn consideration,
who
the Bed Cross coula have time on the program, if they secured a speaier
He further
is better ti-ian average and did not taae more than five minutes.
Jim-Crow of Blood.
keen
about
the
Hea.
Cross
stated that Negroes felt particularly
the statement, or if
If Portland had not done this, it was better to just make
they had, just not said anything.
Mr. Berry gave a cietailed report
Mr. Berry reported on the F. B. P. C. Bill.
since
our last meeting the Bill was inB.
P.
C.
Bill.
on the status of the
It was impossible to get another
Thomas
of
Polk
County.
troduced by Mr. L
Mr,TIQi4in
sponsoring
the
BL.l. Mr. Polk suggested that
person to go along' with
Tue Bill was rethe Bill be streamlined to include only 5overnment agencies.
which
seem
to be one of the
ferred to the Committee on State and Federal nffairs,
This
Corimiittee
reported
the
sill
out
with the remost reactionary committees.
Mr.
Thomas
insisted
that
the
Bill
be
put
bacu
in the Conicommendation of veto.
will
require
that all
mittee. Mr. Berry stated that i± we get anything at all, it
Delegation
and
interested people get busy immediately and contact the Multnoraah
the
Bill
pass.
indicate that there is a large number whoare interestea in seeing
It was suggested that the members of the Urban League be requestect to write to the
ThOM tH UBAh LiaU
Multrioman Delegation. Mt. BNNA MOVU thai A Igit W
FO tHI UOit.
Itt
O' 1kW CO
VMB MU1T.NOMH DLAAIOh AikflJ th M1bB
Mr
Hamilton
said
that he would
in.. COhBBTT SBCOMDED Tin MOTION. MoTION C4MtaIBIJ.
lmce to sena his on tne Urban League letterrieaa.
Survey Graphic Magazine. Concerning the March issue of Survey Graphic Magazine, which
is devotect entirely to the subject "egregation, Br. Berry explained that what is
ccoraing to
needed is C0.00 to make possible the aistribution of 200 copies.
Mr. Hamilton, all school libraries already subscribe to this magazine. It was
Mrs. Corbett's suggestion that organizations be contacted and told about the value
of the publication rather than giving it to them free of charge.
Mr. Bnna felt it wise to order BOO copies and hien anoce that they are available;
otherwise by the thne we compile a list of persons who want the magazine, the interest jilay have uaneci.
mr. Brewster inquired abouc the possibility of the Public Library orcioring copies
In this way we could create the demand.
for its branches.
Several members of the Board agreed to be responsible for a number of copies of
the magazine. Hey Austin agreed to give five minutes of his Sunday Church Service
to help stimulate an interest in the Issue. It vias generally agreed that we go
ariead aria make the purchase of 200 copues.
University of Oregon Situation. Mr. Berry reviewed the oacground. of che University
of Oregon situation. hecently a Negro and vinite girl asked to be placed in tue same
room, and were denied sue privilege. Mr. Berry wrote tue Presidpp çf the Institute,
er-racial living but taatTSate University
hat we are riot urgin
telling hBi
nS
IT
ee&t--e- putof
Y nnv.
TgIh
APP 0IlT.'MrT
TiM11
in
ancii mi i-irIoN an anCUuJ nOn Tun
IMLE TO MfTBfPJLf,i Bk.
in 3 MhJTEF, SECONDED THE
uT ION.
llk3in&
aao
B1JLJni mt aT iL'
BiB hEml OF uTHEB. STnTB: inSTITUTIONS.
MOTION CAllED.
Portland Boy Scouts of America. Mr. Berry informed tue Broup that Mr. Oberteui'ler,
Briecnbive Secretary o± the Portianci 0oy Scouts of nei'iCa, is interoseu in nring a
Ne:ro acout Executive. He would lice to cuiscuss the entire situation vuith us.
OAmL Tin ION 21 MOlD
NH. HAmILTON 0VED AiM) IV STONE sECONDED THE MOTION THAm
10.-ION
THE
BOY
SOuUM)
ininllZAmION
$0 SISCUS
in AiPOINTED TO MOlT .Ill . COu2iiiTTB
1n
-U.araiu2 Bi'
I
f:
,-'-.-r'v Cu.i.Vri.
-t JaCnu
u1iuri ouinn
*
The Community
Lnest has approvea mus enlargement, but has not aproved the increased office rent.
It was announced that the office of one Urban League is being enlarge ci.
Meeting adjourned at 12:10 P. N.
/
,.
JULE :crtrJcE L?T
1%?
114
JC7 L,TT
On
4?,
Vi-t. ;-O
Iutx'I.JL
izuo of ?t.Lnnd4
tho not
.icrs Li
o on t:on
onx' oi
1v
i:.0
on:ctod
on .ihIotic :tr oi O1
Joiio
toitod
LO in
iThIoo
oucli o,':o
Je
i'
.0tO
?00
O
rn.
t
.,
oo
._-o :i.
0.
-
o ;c000 0.o
Lc-1oi rno
JLo
t
.
Joo- i ojn no-
aLoio
lQ0J
i±Ct
;ico .in ao
To;
-':t
i
iO
'O
hL.o
coo
otiTho. or ott
ocLo.
o
itoourJh.
ni no
The i:c.on iino
-Jh OO--
Li
&34
0-0
oi-ootic Jo t-LL
t-oo
aJJ
oonrh y
?
c.
'ooun .-o
Oo ::cio ot the -'ro.oi:j o'
in
of
nLonont-o:, nn
Jo
i.ie in Jittnourh
flolJ c
on
LL :ji
iO 3outu TLi
ncn
ion .
1iO1i zrL; :Lnn; o:.'
L
3ctzy o'
hii :nnti
n ut'c LLn
L)i
-
:0
.0
-
n.o o;
o
n
40
&v:i.iu ic o:ceLonc
c0
L--0 oJo
n- n:-ooa-Son
o
0
oo ;:i
ozo.:
2O io
i'ctL
ii1
i., çt
'v
0
'it.t
±urh Q1L
ii4
itant
i
'e Un
:
r:Li
ocr.
J
uo
i
;a
t
f
iin
iL.oflt
t
u; .Dri
in £L.
omer
r;
L.to
J
ntL:i
£Ji. zior
iL
L:i
d
.no
t)t
;
u'
20
;i
_xifl
c n
;:'
w
;n
1JL)
'iiacxt i
tL
rthQ
eUJ.;
.
in
.
,
or3 ;r:L-t
::ci-
Ch)L?
li)
ny
7r
:45
i-d
iI.;tiJL n
in
cp 1e
Lì
'
fL -0 ;2'OJ
IiL
urr:co n
'
entr
tjid
L
iL
-
ciu
cctd
io
':.:i' Li:2i L
o
oth i
th
tIt
th3, 2cvo
o.uLJ_, zao ot
:i1
t oL to fUi
icanco4
fThc
eun. UI.
coig
Io
.t
of prO
Iii
ahrtx
tico zhei
o
uo'
oI.f
i
tho ot
if
Jri JT J
r,i:jd
I.L.J .O&103t
.o U;:xn
irin; 'i
ithout t)o Iof
1O)
O
eth 1r;
iLtjOfl tO
wt
uIa or
od
It±ty :nc
ifuJ. Jrn
u
aiiy
vod
lb
wo
of L
14r1s I
Ln
1
oo
t,
1co trr
t
J
iriiiiu O3wA-tI.I.
do. )crcn1A.
iLVU4i
t'
:i)ra)d ;.f
i
.
3J
f o' top
f
l'ic1LLt
o;1
.;'rWt(
TIØ O3 O
ttution
i1O
1G .(-J
o';uoi. id
o'U
'ro
'r)
£xL.flt
iod
!hz f
J4j
tLij
bo
'ort
LL..
Ltirt
'A 'U.Jt fJ'
oopIotoJ;j 'ti tiou ;
of
))C.'A7u
this jUfl
uti if ;o on :o
ILrJ
I OL
It, rn tO
h
rJ.,
c
Cu
.L ;O1O O'
Iiorothon
'tO O 4
-±i of
LIL
or JU,Lc
OCu7O oorot:ry
Of
Minutes of Boaxd. Meeting
Urban League of ?ortland
th Avenue
3. 'I,
The iaeeting was caLled.
order
y the Oiairxnan, Dr. Unthank, at iO)O A.
The fpUowin directors were irssontz
Mr. iELLLan U wsier, Jr.
Mrs. ifllott Corbett
Mr. Irving Mnna
3holton Hill
Ar, i
Mr. Clarence ivey
Mr. Kily Foster
Mr. Charles Morn
Mr. Do
Mr. Francis Coz'n
Green
1Iataor L. o. otone
dwin C.
Mr.
err,i,
Mr. Dav.d Iobuison
De NorvaJ. Untank, M. D.
Mxecutive Jec'y
The ainutes of the speciaL meeting were react and approveft.
Te minutes of te List rouLm iICOtfl
u.splaceu.
Tie secieiij, Mr.
mailed them to te office, but they wore not received,
Mr. Kern reported.. on the meetingof our
Jule Comraittee; with the Council of bocial Agencies Ccjuittee to discuss oUr 3oare.
Lott. The Council Co .ittee was composed
action rogarct:Leg a death benefit for Mr
of officers of the Council iecutive Coittee, They were: Mr. Du'han, Chairman;
icelavi, Mxecutive
Dr. irigtit, Vice Chairman, Mrs. Bertha bFoliy, cocretary anu John
the
foLLowing
persons:
3ecretary. The Urban League Committee was composed of
Executive
becretary.
Mr. Kern, Chairman; Mrs. Duncan, Mrs. Corbett, and Mr. 3erry,
1.
Mr Kern tatod that we tuhned for l
hours, but did not get any pinee with
Mr. Durham finaLly stating that his oiiiniittoe was unofficial .nd could not act in
the neme of the Council anyway. Mr. Kern then requested that the mat tar be brought
ecutive Committee in a special meeting which should b
before the entire
at the earliest possible time. Mr. Durham agreen todo this,
ci1an
The sentiment of the Council officers seemed to he split with the Chairman
and Executive becretary wishing o postpone action, and. the other officers wisiiing
to take action and oxpressea nemselves £avoring rU position.
that this unfiniskieu report had to be mane
Mr. Kern exp'oused sincere rogret
He thanked Mr, Corett and Mrs. Duncan for their
on this vitaL piece of business,
ancollerit contributions nd flr1 confident that the total Executive Committee would
support us.
Mrs. Gorbett stated that she felt that the Chest would use tao fact anat the
amount for retirement coverage as not in our originaL buaget so refuse she i1Locaton,
er.. pointed ou that our request as aLaeom in December of 194o,
the other items reauesteu at the same 'ime 'sere granted.
Mr.
fwo of
Dr. Uritkiarw commended she Committee for their efforts ann statou that the Board
Br. Unthank' chargea the Execuwould expect a complete report in the next meeting,
tive Becretary with the responsibility of placing a formaL re ;ueot for 3OO as soon
as we had concurxonce from the Executive Coianiistoe of the Council of $ociaL gencies.
Minutes oi
Meeting
Pajç 2
t1i1eoort,
2.
The Nominating Coiuuitteo - Mr. Brewster, Cairman,
Mr. Hill, Mr. Green.
Tio Co&ni.ttee submitted the following officers
- David hODLflsOfl
Vice Fresient
.--
Vice reeidont
Jecretary
Treasurer
- Irvin,
BOTION BY :iii. FuSThA:
BY MR. hILL.
.
ILi7CTIOIh
rida
--
Clarence Ivey
Mrs. Mary Duncan
nna
Francis ern
THAT Ahi-OHf IIh ICCEIT)M)
A3 UITALLMAJB.
rd' -
3 gUiiiITTD.
AOTION
hL.CCNDED
jURLT. Dr. Unthah akod Mr. Berry
to present the statement which hd had been directed to draw ab bhe previous nteoting.
The etabenent was react. It was a ftbting tribbe to Mr. Lotte C cnenory. The state
ment was accepted by the Board and orctereu a part ci' the tj4nutes by the President
(statemezit. attached).
4,
ia3o, Mr. Hill reported that the Urban League is planning to no a'
Durvey of rious jug conditions and unemployment anong Negroes in the Lower U.bina
District, This is being done n cooperation wibh the Regional Housing Office of
F. P H. A., 3eattle and The Negro Citizens and Tucpayers League.
The functh
purpose of this urrey is to ascertain the actual number of Negroes living in
this district (we have only bad questionaires up to this time), housi
conuitions
i.e.
ounb of overcrowding, C itar auc cooiing fadilitie, raake shift arrange
aonts ike, iado over onC fsmily for rooung houses, apartments, e'te, or the number
of families living in single
iüly dwelling which have not been made over at aLl.
The Burvey material will firat no analysea by the F
H. A. analyst ann then re
turned to the Urban League as a part of our permanent records,
ie will have the
advanbago of the F. f. H. A. analysis ann :iiii anaLyze lb further for cth:r
lient
anaormaton, F,
U, A. needs this material .o ostarna.e the amounb ci. rental
property needed in. this area and the smount of low cost public housing needed,
The Portland Housing Authority has made no attempt be gather information be indicate
the need sf housing aceomociation for Negroes,
,
ither Btone audod. that the enbire area is ola, rundown :aadL sunstanuarn.
He
sugested that reaLLtors are iuerested in continuing the ghett.o because it is
profitable
THIB
kIOBLCT
.drAC1JDD ill AOTICH P1 nR.. CBRBATT, dECONDi.U) 3Y PR. PNNP.
POTION P B3EhD,
Podision of IndustriaL 3ecretL,
Mr. Berry ro.ortoa that the NationaL Office
o nil ncftjiauals ihosc applicathons nave een
processed and approved by the Naalonaj. Offic.,
fwo aoii J4on artJiL.rLj goo..
One is in Columbus, Balo, and tao other is in Los angeles. There nave been au
clitionaL ;crsons iho have read or have
en informed of the opening aid have applicu
directly bo this office,
In each case they have been referron to the National
Urban League for clanranee. There are four applications from psons who are now
living in the :3aj area in CaLifornia, Jan Francisco, Borkicy ann Oad..and.
One
seems to ho a very good prospect. He is a former Urban League ixecutivo. Mr. Berry
added that he had proceened cautiously in screening epaLicatioris for nomination o
the Board for wo easons;
,
Tz'eferroct fouxen, Those
2llP
Minutes of Board
Meetini
1.
2.
The vital iportance of the job.
Because of our uncertain financial
CC)XtLtJ.Ofl as far as continu.ind paj-
aonts to Mrs. iot
are concernea.
;ie agreed to assuite the rosponsisiJ.ity,
but as yet have :io plan. The ehoci we
wili pay on May
U is the last ho is
authorized o have Uraw, that bing
the end of the O day vacation noriod
earned y Mr. Loot.
The Board dirocod Mr. Berry to proceed to fili the position of industrial
Secretary as soon as possible and save reassurance that souio plan to continue
pannents to Mrs. Lot would ho aivsed. There was no motion, on this oruer The
entire Board agrecu with the statemaont by Mr. ]3obink3on.
It was further agroecL that the auly elected officers of the Urban League
Their selection of the applicants aoininattid
accpted
ay the tecutiire ecx'otary shall
whaLL act as the .Forsoxmol Gonmait'tee
ew?resiciontTheaOvor. At this point D. Unthank reiinuished the chair
to Mr. 1obinson. Br. Unthanh stated that he had thoroumiiy enjoyed his period of
mentioned that Micro
office He hanked the Bocra for excellent cooperation
han eeon no refusals to accept cojnrnat1;ee auty or othcr service during iiis tormi sf
0.115,00,
He statcu tnat tas successes so nave ccomp5,ishou wore (UC tO taO earnest
cooperacaon. irorn tao joara,
s this point Dr. Un,thanh invited Mr. aoanson to
take ti1O Cd&Lr,
Mr. obinon accepted tao chair. Ho leed to continue his aork in behalf
of the cause to which we have audr'eaou ourseii'os -te 3euflneci. ,rin arnin to
our Board that 'the job ahesu is difficult, and pointed to evidences of bido try
which are hocomin :LntensifLe(i in the Northwest and the Nation He closed his
remax%s iith thanks and coinonciataon so Dr. Jntnank ann sac outdoirr: oaLoors
sir. aobs.nson saiu, £he si.ju.ty anu -sfaciency wnich nave wiaracte rizoc your ;ern
of off ins ronuers the Urban Leae'ue ic tter for yoin' iia sarved
MY$LJN
Thankin
aS ,iTJD ,fL
ii.,.
-ind
fl1) JhCdiJB2D 3Y dh,
hdif.
eact coI1e1luixLd Br, UnthanA. 2 r sic exceLi,erin service a
id(3
resiuont
of the Urban Loa5ue,
MCT.iQT i- SJED TiN
officers, daca
Mr. dobinson called on isca of
sneir oleete capacisy and ple;-ou complete support 5) the
so service in
Mr. hobinson anvitect attention of the Boara so ha joint .3acealaurease
services so be held at fenon Hih Chooi on June 5 wnore the taree dret fais.is
of draer±Catholie-i-rotectant-and 4ewisn will so represented. fhis comes sout
throu5h the decisions f hih school students s;iernso.Lves. Mr. Aooincon sientiunco
she fact chat this starten in Portianu Puolic
cnoois in June of ,L.94J
ann was
repeated or sac February ratsuat.Lni class ann adam in June In she February
xevcise at Lincthsn jj-i, Father B. U. Stone "jaa the Protestant represent.t.ive.
Mr. ioblnson closed saying that there are svidences of
oncoura5ement inn
41NUTI
Mav 27
OF BOARD MEETING
947
Dr. Unthank ea11ec particuLar attent.ion to the .laat issue of OPPORTUNITY,
which he felt was outstixicU.ng. It ive a sor4oUaof uces stories
regarding
Negroes the nation over who have exoellod in uni.isuL jobs,
AC1J ournnisnt
URBAN LEAGUE OF PORTLAND
BOAR]) MEETING
-y 30, 1947
Mr. Robifson presiding:
Present were:
Mrs. Reed, Mrs. Corbett, Messrs. Bell, Kern, Smith,
Hill, Morgan, Foster, Enna, and Edwin C. Berry.
1.
The minutes were read and approved with one correction.
The correction:
Father Campbell, another Board member appeared on the
Baccalaureate Program at
2.
incoln High in the June exercise.
Death benefit for Mrs. Lott
(a) Initial Negotiation-
Mr. Kern made a full report of all early negotiations
with the Council of
oca1 Agencies and with the Community
Chest Budget Committee.
His report revealed that the
Council had completely substantiated our position, while
the Budget CommIttee had completely reversed it.
(b) Chest J3oard Meeting-
Mr. Brewster reported on the Chest Board Meeting at
which this matter was considered.
He mentioned that the
matter had been referred to the Chest after negative reports from the Executive Committee of the Chest Board and
by the Budget commIttee.
The Chest Board reversed Its
sub-committees and substained the Urban League request.
for the full
3,OOO.
Mr. Brewster mentioned that stanley
Earl had carried the lion's share of the load and he was
adequately assisted by the efforts of Father Thomas Tobin.
(c)
Mr. Berry read copies of the correspondence between
Ralph Reed of the Chest and himself.
Mr. Berry wished to
present these letters in order that all members of the
-2-
Board might be completely informed.
There had been some
critizism of Mr. Berry's letter to Mr. Mills, President
of the Community Uhest--correspondence attached.
3. 1948 Budget estimate was presented by Mr. Kern.
He called attention to the fact that we are plannIng
27,753.18 compared with
to operate in 1948 on
l9,3O2.O9
in 1947, and that we are requesting that the Chest raise
22,853.l8 for use.
is
l5,65O.
Our 1947 allocation from the Ohest
Mr. Kern indicated that most of the increase
occurs in the salary item.
our 1948 plan includes the
addition of a Neighborhood Secretary at
an office worker at
l,8OO.
for our present staff.
3,OOO per annum,
Small raises are anticipated
Other increases are those that
would be expected with an expanded program that is prInting, stati-onary, office supplies and equipment and educa-
tional supplies for distribution.
MOTION:
Mr. Harry Smith--Second--Mr. Hill, that the budget
be accepted as presented.--carrl.ed.
4.
Offer of Property Gift-
Mr. Berry read the letter from Mrs.
the offer was made.
Mrs.
yram, in which
yram had picked up our 1946
Annual Report at the International Institute at Reed College.
She was impressed with our work and felt moved to make the
offer.
Mr. Smith asked If'we could accept such a gift.
Mr.
Robinson's opinion was that we could receive such a gift,
that a committee of trustees should be appointed from the
Board to receive it.
-3-
it was agreed that Mr. Robinson and Mr.
would confer with Mrs. trram about the matter.
Brewster
This is
in accordance with her request.
5.
Note of Approbtton
Mr. Enna told of a speech which
id Woodbury, President
of Portland Chamber of Lornmerce, had delivered at the
Oregon Federation of Labor Conference.
A considerable
section of the speech was devoted to the urban League and
Race Relations in Portland.
Mr. Enna read the section re-
lative to urban League operation:
Copy of Mr. Woodbury's
remarks are attached.
Mr. Liobinson at. this point called attention to
President Truman's speech at NAACP convention.
Mr.
Robinson said the President's remarks were forthright and
He recommended the full text to all Board mem-
forceful.
bers who had not heard it.
6.
Albina Housin
Survey
Mr. Hill gave a brief report of the Albina Housing
survey.
He stated that the survey was practically com-
pleted and that all but a few call backs had been made.
The survey schedules have been sent to the Regional
Housing office for analysis.
After they have been gone
over there, they will be returned to us for further analsis
and interpretation.
7.
Cain Bill
Mr. Hill spoke of this Bill which was in Senate
committee.
re:
to the disposal of war housing.
The Bill
would make mandatory the complete disposition of all war
-4-
housing for cash by December 1948.
He pointed out that
should the Bill pass,it would call for the eviction to
begin immediately.
He mentioned, that approximately
13,000 families in Portland areas are housed in the temporaries and 1/2 of Portland's Negro population.
The consensus of the £3oard was against the Cain Bill.
No formal action was taken.
Mr. Foster spoke of the erroneous publicity which the
daily paper had carried inferring that he wished to buy
a section of Vanport for a Negro housing project.
He
assured the Board that he had no such plan and that his
democratic principles and desires to continue to fight
discrimination were as strong as ever.
Our President assured Mr. Foster that the true facts
of the case were known and that no one felt that he was
involved in any uncomplimentary way.
The entire Board concurred with the PresIdent.
Ad j ournment
/
) Jui, J947
II * C ertouffer
deóuting Director
erica
.o
3cout of
716 Orgon uilding
Portland 4 Oregon
)or Obie:
I have r-.etatod the ecticn of ;c ui port au o aroeda I don t
hoi it i11 3Uit ;our 3tU'pO(
IicvJeVOr3 Lt a000 1eve p1 inbj of lee.-ia
for in erpretatinn
I poreona1
obould teach the
d trocpu.
do ULL3 in oregz
feel au I eeiiveou do, that $coutie
ocut Lfl Ariconioin
1 Jcn t ooLLove it
an
?articuiar1i in the ilbina and 7anport reae Ic the improvement of ±acø
all orgeroLatione i/cr3cLnd in theuo £ueac have a rouponJo1ationc nooded
ccc of our democracy.
LU±t to speL. out and uemonutabo the -.5oBt pra
tro ala integrated
and our pual;Lc tchoo1
and . 7
)
Tho :.
They
are
all
c.rgnnieaticnu
pro roric operating in the aroac aentinnod,
ihich have definitely stated oijoctivee for the improvement of Leo ehou1d imve euth utated ojoctavou aLe.
I fi that the 3cout
1ationc,
I ±Ld not attempt to do thin in the otatomont enclocod eecu2o ihat you
au a re-write jo
auhod inc to do
o occo iinbod in the
.-\n iz i7ithlai :7thc fu1L
Lu hire the elgit ; an
and one the oeooceou 30in3 underJ.dc mtone of bin
unerutands the
otnding & tha oot techL.uec in interraciaJ. .icrk, () If be bac the
unequivocal iacaang of the Piroctimg oard and the imaini.itration of the
I firwJ.y ucliovo that
program pJ.annecl If:
ocd intorrcinL iori can
i)
3cout Concil
a good nan and the hole of other eoimounit.; fcrcou I ac eve interoliarn all]. -iork in 3cou thng and in the are--a of your pr:eont inecuin -0 a aecaaed etreat from the concoptu o aamccrc;
. t
terout.
uto ama onco:rago aegro'nbed trocue at thac inno
to
lIce a;oLIt giving it a try?
3incoroly
ilduin C. Jerry
ii
:ociitiv
Secretary
.
different situation prevails among our Nogrc residents
Presently the
Negro popi1atien is approxi.mateJ.y 2, 500 for the ?ortLnd rea.
This figure
includes about 1,125 boys of scoutin; age, betueon nine anct eighteen 'ears
o;s for a 7ariot; of 'ons have not jet availed th
Those
ives of the scouting
oportunitc to any aoreci.ao1e degree.
It is ireLorbant for us to note that moot of our Negro citisens are newcorners to the Portian
-
scene0
The population in 1940 was 1,934 indiv-ldua.ln
It
reacbed a iar ti o(ecfr of roughly 25,000 and has not ievs1d off at the 12,500
figure cited above
future
ing
Jncertai;
'the
During war jer moot fleweoners were uncertain of the
:eopleeeldco identify with continuing efcrts such as scout-
rc sent porulation is stable and peanent0
These negro scys need the
onrichJzig experience in our school of c±tienship (scouting) equally as much as
other ycirnig inoricano.
I b has bocomo apparent through !irestigatinn that ziany meaboro of the
Nepo ccmnunit:y (adu1ta) have viewed the scouting program with some suspicion
and have not Colt welcome to oarticlpata
blast of these persons have not aeon
close enough to the scouting erogrea to fulib uncLerstand our oicsqt
or to fully comprehend the meaning of the scout oath or oledge.
dicates that cur Próa
pooe
This pro baby in-
uced more forcibly to inmenstralo ama spcii out the
real cieaning of our laws of (1)
yalty to Country, (2)
ro'thmrhocd of scouting,
(3) Cour-tesy to all2 (4) feverence to 3ocL
s;a1e that a full; qualified Jegro
It soerna highly
professionaL staffQ
oadded to our
This move woulu, without a ioumt, inspire the confidence of
non-white minorities in the sity, sad cause them to rally in 3upnrt sf sccuting
it wiL. sccomp.ah an.
enable us to teach scorlcanisu
such a anoject irnmediatel;
end pathaps a mace
iaeon-a. uroce
example as sell as s; )receptc
a
sill
be rc300rnmenti.
Obiets Original
A different situation presents ite1f
in
the Negro population which, at
this time, numbers some 12,500 - including Vanport.
This means that there are
approximately 1,125 boys of' Scouting age, 9 to 15, who are Negroes.
There are
certain residential districts where the population is predominately Negro.
The
Negro churches and other institutions, at this time, have not fully realized their
opportunity of sponsoring Boy Scout Units for their boys.
visable that a Negro be added to the professional staff.
It seems highly ad
Such a staff member
would carry simaar responsibilities to the other Field 1eoutives, but would
have a special relationship to the promotion o± Scouting in the districts where
he population was principally. Negro.
undertaken in the very near future.
'[e recoAumneriu that such a project be
Ui?.BN LBAGUE OF EOhTL1ll)
Friday
July l, 1947
"BIGCUTIV3 COLillTBE hEBTING'
The foliovlind were
resent:
hr. Clarence Ivey
hi's. hary Duncan
hr. Davi.a hobinson, Presiding
hr. Edwin C. Berry, Ex officio
hr. hobinson called the meetinC to order. He announced that hr. Kern
had espres3ed redret for his inability to attend the cieetinb, since he woula
hr. Enna, 1ewise, expressed re:rets as a previous
be out of the city.
ann pressint engageient necessicatect his absence.
'Eose of Call,
ecreiary.
To consider the nomination of B. .helton Bill as
Indus trial
hr. hem
had expressea himself in favor of the appointment.
hr. Bra-ia made no comment, since he was not in possession of full facts,
The President asked Mr. Berry to read the jualifications of hr. Hill for
the posLion. hr. Berry presented Er, jjjfll s personnel recorn and announced
that he had been cleared by the National Urban Leabue.
after discussion -- THERE RE h EOTON BY in. IVEY, inCCNDBD BY
InS. DUiCRE THhT ER. B. BELT0H iILL BE EinLOYED itS INDUSTRIAL
OF ThE URBAB LERGER OF ORTLEIIJ AT A BALAHY OF 36OO .00 per annun.
MO'tIoh PAS3ID UIhii:LIuUSLT.
Adj oumnment.
U&.BAN LEAGUE OF PORTLAND
July 18, 1947
Fridays
rI(JTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
The following were present:
Mr. Clarence Ivey
Mrs. Mary Duncan
Mr. David Eohinson, Presiding
Mr. Edwin C. Berry, Ex officio
Mr. iobinson called the meting to order, He announced that Mr. Kern
had espressed regrets for his inabii.y to attend the nteeting since he would
be out of the city.
Mr. Enna, likewise expressed regrets a a previous
and pressing engagement necessitated his absence.
Purpoeof Call.
To consider the nomination of B. Shelton Hill as
Industrial. Secretary.
Mr. Kern had expressed hiiaolf in favor of the appointiaent.
Mr. Enna made no conment, since he 'mas not in possession o± full fscts,
The Presidexxt asked Mr. Berry to read the quaUiications of Mr. Hill for
Mr. Berry presented Mr. Hill's personnel record and announced
that he had been cleared by the National Urban League.
te posiion.
i.fter discussion - THEItE WAS A MOTION BY MR. IVEY, bECONDED BY
MRS. DUNCAN: THAT MR. B. SHELTON HILL BE EMPLOYED AS INDUSTAIAL SECRETARY
OF THE URBAN LEAGUE OF PORTLAND AT A SALARY OF 36OO 400 per anrmn.
M611OM PASSED UNANIMOUSLY.
Adjournment.
tJU3i4Il LEAGUE OF EOHTLAIID
The £oiiowin were reent
Mr. Glarenco Ivoy
Mru. Mary Duncan
Mr. OttVid
oxInon, Prualding
Mr. :dwin C
:orry, Ex oiCio
Mr. obiruon called the
(ng to ordr, Ito announced Lhat Mr. cern
hau
JDll.1tr to attend ao ooting. ainco ho would
ho out oC the oiy.
Mr. Fina J,tkowiso
xprweod
ruts a a pruviou
and pr sing elgouioL'lt neceoiatcd hi absence,
£oseoLC. To conaldor he noidnatlon
u
1,
iheiton HIU. a
Inctu trial 3eerotary.
Mr. (em had
qressod
Lmeelf
Mr. inna :iade no conment,
in
Layer oL he ippointnent
inee he iao not in
ouein oL
ui1 facts.
The ?z'oident aaed Mr. 3orry o read ho jualifi tions oL' Mr. UllI for
Mr. Berry pro&sontod Mr. iLUJio poronnel record nd announced
that, ho had been cleared by ho National Urban League.
to posiion.
U'ter diacusLiion - T1tiMt
MR3, DCAN ThAT 2Ui,
i
OF Tit
JMI3AJ AtxUL
MO11h iAL3$ED IjTh1iIMUUSLY.
ALJ oururnont,
Ai A MOTION 3Y MR. IV$(,
ifbW) 3Y
1-llLON LILL 3L 2LOYED
I2'WU IhIAL dE'RTAiiY
th LjA) AT a
LhL :)J
3OO,OO per a nun,
5ll
L1LL)
COUNCIL OF SOCIAL AGENCIES
240 Terminal Sales Building
Portland 5, Oregon
URBAN LEAGUE OF PORTLAND
6 S. W. Sixth Avenue
JUL24 1947
COUNCIL OF SOCIAL AGENCIES
Executive Secretary: Mr Edwin C. Berry
President of Board: Mr. David Robinson
Function arid Services (as submitted by the agency)
"It is the purpose of the Urban League broadly stated "to assist the community in the
process of integrating Negro American&'. Our slogan is "Not Alms but Opportunity".
The purpose implies (1) that Negroes are not presently integrated, (2) that there is
resistence to the integration which requires special attention, and (3) that it is to
the best interest of the total community to achieve this integration.
Our slogan indicates that we seek to assist Negro citizena in improving their condition through the exercise of independent effort -- not by becoming beneficiaries
ternalistic efforts.
This is not meant to convey the impression that we do not seek the cooperation of the
entire community in the modification of racial attitudes and in the eradication of
discriminatory practices, We do, However, we are attempting to bring about a condition in our city which will enable Negroes to move into the main stream of community
life, free from artificial handicaps. When this condition becomes a reality, Negro
citizens will be free to achieve in accordance with their skills, ability and temperament, We seek simply an application of Americanism -- in this case the right to be
non-white without penalty.
The Urban League is two entities simultaneously.
It is a MOVEMENT of people of all colors, creeds and national
origins who believe that intelligent cooperation can solve the
multitude of minority problems which beset us; who believe
devotedly that the best interests of the community can be
served by the protection of the weakest, most disorganized
among us as well as the strongest and most articulate. This
movement in Portland symbolizes the hopes and aspirations of
10,500 Negroes, and the social conscience of a great many fair
minded and informed white persons.
It is a SOCIAL AGENCY with a professional staff, which works
day and night to carry out the functions of the Urban League
under the direction of an interracial Board.
Industrial relations,
A total Urban League program maintains the following services:
public education, housing, health, welfare, research, vocational and educational
guidance, and community relations, In Portland, staff limitations have made it necessary to confine our activities to three main areas of function. They are:
1.
Public Education. - Telling and getting told the true
story of American Negroes and their condition in the
life of Portland.
2.
Industrial Relations. - The improvement of conditions
under which Negroes work. To date the placement of
individual Negro workers on jobs has been the major duty
of this program. During 1946 more than 1500 different
individuals have received direct service from the industrial department. Direct placements exceeded 400 workers.
This type of work has necessitated extensive clerical
service in order to take and make out applications, secure
reference letters and to keep proper records.
URBAN LEAGUE OF PORTLAND (Continued)
3.
Housing. -- The expansion of housing opportunities to
the end that Negro citizens may be able to obtain a fair
share of available housing under decent, unsegregated
conditions
Personnel
The Executive Secretary is a trained and experienced group worker with a mastert s
degree in a graduate school of social work. The industrial secretary position is
temporarily vacant because of the tragic death of Mr. Jule K. Lott. Two office
workers make up the balance of the staff.
Board of Directors
The Board consists of the following members:
Clarence E. Ivey, First Vice-President; Mrs.
Irving Enna, Secretary; Mr. Francis J. Kern,
Reverend C. N. Austin, Mr. Don Green, Father
Jr., Mrs. Elliott Corbett, Mr. Kelly Foster,
Mr. James Hamilton, and Mr. E. Shelton Hill.
Mr. David Robinson, President; Mr
Nary Duncan, Second Vice-President; Mr.
Treasurer; Father George J. Campbell,
L. 0. Stone, Mr. William L. Brewster,
Mrs. Pollyanna Reed, Mr. Harry A.D.Smith,
Proposals for 1948 (as submitted by the agency)
"Our 1948 plan provides for the addition of a neighborhood worker to our staff. This
worker will do an intensive job of community organization within certain designated
areas and will handle special agency functions related to this work. The addition of
this worker has been in the agency plan for two years. (See job description appended)
The other area of service in which we plan expansion is Public Education. We contemplate more interpretive reports on the local scene. Among the publications (in
addition to our newsletter) which we hope to publish in 1948 are:
1. QaQ2b"
A pamphlet designed particularly for the Negro worker.
It
will describe tried techniques of job hunting; point up the
importance of dress, conduct, etc.; interpret the value of
such qualities as promptness, dependability, alertness,
courtesy, and the ability to get along with others, etc,
2,
"The Wallso.f Jericho"
The 'Walls" here refer to the barrier to equality in the
field of employment. It will picture 40 Negroes in Portland
who have made good in other than the "usual" jobs available
to Negroes. This pamphlet will serve as a source of enlightment for the white community; as inspiration to Negroes -particularly youth; and as a resource for the many interracial
study groups in the city
3.
"A Negro in a White World"
This pamphlet will paint a graphic picture
to be black in a white world where insults
are the rule of life--not the exception; w
synonymous with inferiority of the person;
of persons experience 'ritua11ching'
of what it means
and humiliation
iere black is
and where millions
daily.
JOB DESCRIPTION OF NEIGHBORHOOD SECRETARY (as submitted by agetir
The Neighborhood Secretary will work with the following groups, which are presently
organized in the neighborhoods of Williams Avenue, Vanport and Guilds Lake: National
Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Negro Citizens and Taxpayers League,
Committee on Interracial Practices, various ParentTeacher Associations, all Negro
churches, lodges, fraternal associations, community councils, community clubs, chin'ch
groups and tenant organizations, etc. All of these groups have a definite interest in
race relations. They need these efforts channeled and directed into useful projects.
Concerted action can be achieved on many worthwhile projects with this direction. The
worker will keep these groups informed, suggest projects and action and relate them
one to the other and to larger efforts.
The Neighborhood Secretary will assist In the organization of additional groups when
such is indicated.
The Neighborhood Secretary will work closely with the schools, and with parent groups
to bring about closer cooperation between school and home. This effort will help
teachers understand the background from which many Negro students have come; the
dynamics of race relations and some of the manifestations of a child resisting the
unseen foe of prejudice. The worker will encourage the intercultural education pro
grain in all schools and will encourage Negro parents though community organization
and educational techniques to cooperate more closely with all schools; to encourage
promptness, regular attendance, good conduct and scholarship on the part of children.
(Not duplicating visiting teacher work.)
The Neighborhood Secretary will function in the following ways:
Will help to relate individuals and groups to all available social
(1)
services and to total community life.
(2)
WiU work toward general neighborhood improvement in the following areas
a.
b.
c.
d.
e,
Home making
Improvement
Improvement
Improvement
Improvement
and beautification.
of municipal services.
of health standards.
of housing.
of public conduct of some persons.
Will assist neighborhood groups in emphasizing the necessity for all
(3)
neighborhood residents to register and vote.
Will work with other agencies and bureaus to assist them in their ef(4)
forts to improve services to Negro clients
QUAL IPCAT IONS
Personal Qualities:
1.
Pleasant and personable and able to move easily with people. He or she
should be one who has made satisfactory interracial adjustment.
2.
Emotional maturity.
3. Sincerity in his convictions about Anerican democracy, and the Urban
Must
League program,, in order that he may be able to inspire confidence in others
be particularly dispassionate and objective in dealing with racial situations.
4. Fluent in thought and speech.
Diplomatic and able to work with diverse and even antagonistic groups,
5.
6,
Patience.
7. Ability to see the other fellow's point of view.
Sense of humor.
Education and Expe'ience:
1.
Hold college degree in social science, or allied field.
Graduate work in professional social work preferred; graduate study in
Sociology, or related field.may be substituted.
Understanding of the dynamics of inter-personal relations, community
3,
organizatioi, and race relations.
4. Demonstrated ability in supervision of staff; in interpretive techniques;
and in working in tension situations.
Have a min3.inum of 3 years experience as a successful practitioo? in tho
5.
area of community organization, or race relations.
6. Must have proved ability in organization, supervision and interpretation,
7. Experience in public schàolteaching desirable4
2
URBAN LEAGUE OF
(Cor,.tiiiue)
4. "Race Relations on Wheels"
A pamphlet designed to show the great opportunity of Negro
railroad workers, i. e. Dining car waiters, Porters and Red
Caps in improving race relations through pleasant service,
personal habits and courtesy. (Courtesy is not to be confused with Uncle Tomming.)
A large number of Portland's oldest Negro residents are
railroad employees. Railroading was the principal source of
employment for Negroes in Portland before the war.
Note:
5,
"These are ThgDo"
A short work for white Portlanders, who wish to improve race
relations but do not know how. This will point up little
things that the ordinary guy can do in the course of daily
routine; things which cost no money and very little time or
effort "
Comments
The Council commends the Urban League for the advances that have been made in
improving intercultural relations in this community in a two year period. The Urban
League has provided helpful direction to many Portland citizens of all races working
for a better integrated community.
1.
The Council commends the Urban League for its willingness to give service in
2,
helping to solve all intercultural problems and for not restricting efforts to problems of Negro-white relationships.
Re commendations
The Council recommends:
That the Urban League continue to work for incroaod opportunities for Negroes
to participate as citizens in various civic organizations and all phases of civic
life, in addition to other outlined phases of its program.
1,
(A) to intensify and expand
That a Neighborhood Secretary be added to the staff:
achieve the goal set by
the
community
in
order
to
work directly with Negro groups in
and segregation
overcoming
their
prejudices
Comment No. 1, and to assist Negroes in
effectively
in
schools
and community
practices; (B) to help Negroes participate more
(C) to coordinate
conditions
are
improved;
activities to the end that their living
the activities of the large number of groups -- Negro, 'white, and interracial -which presently are interested in human relations. (See appended job description
and qualifications for Neighborhood Secretary)
2.
Respectfully submitted,
Mrs. John R. Catlin
Mrs. Paul Raver
Mr. Lawrence Shaw
URBAN LEAGUE REVIEW COM[4ITTEE OF
THE COUNCIL OF SOCIAL AGENCIES
I
.ECIr /27
/
!
C
//
/2
; I,
/ /
7
/
///
j
AZ
/ /
__\
-
/
MINUTES OF BOARD
ETING
Urban League of Portland
6 3. W. 6th Avenue
YYCA - July 26, 1947
1.
The meeting was called to order by the President, David Robinson
2.
Roll Call - Present were:
Mrs.
Mrs.
Mrs.
Mrs.
Kenneth F. Smith
Mr. Francis Kern
Poflyaima Reed
Mr. Charles Morgan
Elliott Corbett
Mr. Wi].li.aiii L. nrewster, Jr.
Mary Duncan
Mr. Irving Enna
Mr. James Hamilton
Mr. Edwin C. Berry, Executive Sec'y
3.
Minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.
4.
Report on Industrial Secretary from E. Shelton Hill. Mr. Berry
Board of Directors. Resignation
MOTION BY MR. KERN. SECONDED BY
Mr. Berry was asked to present correspondence
read Mr. Hill's letter of resignation from the
accepted with thanks for his faithful service.
MR. MORGAN.
Mr. Robinson announced the appointment of E. Shelton Hill to the post of Industrial
Secretary of the Urban League of Portland at the salary of 36OO. per annum.
Mr. Robinson pointed out that the officers of the organization who were empowered
by the Board to make the selection, had reviewed the applications of a large
number of candidates. After deliberation, they agreed unanimously on Mr. Hill
by weighing objectively, the merits of all applicants. Mr. Robinson continued
that Mr. Hill is on the scene, knows our problems, presents an outstanding background and is cleared by our National Office.
5.
Budget Hear
- Mr. Kern reported that we had a good Board representation with
Mr. Robinson, Mrs. Corbett, Mr. Enna and Dr. Unthank. The Budget Committee was
courteous and cordial. The Budget Committee had not yet received the Review
Committee Report. This was unfortunate. Mr. Robinson was our quarterback. He
handled the meeting with dispatch. Each of our Boad members had a specific contribution to make and each made the contribution well. At the close of the
discussion the Budget Committee complimented us on our presentation.
It was
by far the most pleasant experience we have had
th the Budget Committee.
Mr. Berry spoke of Mr. Reed's letter to Mr. Granger in which he mentioned our
Budget presentation. Mr. Reed was complimentary and said he thought the Budget
Committee felt favorably disposed toward granting the entire amount.
6.
Review Committee - Mr. Brewster reported that the Committee assigned us was
composed of Mrs. Paul Raver, Mrs. John Catlin and Mr. Laurence Shaw. The three
chairmen of the Sectional Review Committes. They were interested and sympathetic.
The atmosphere throughout was sympathetic. He asked other members of our Committee
to comment.
-2-
Mrs. Corbett felt their questions were good. And that we had a chance to
comment on our Chest publicity which many of us think is not good. She
felt the business of Chest always pointing up the minimum needs of agencies
rather than the human needs to be served effected the giving public adversely.
Mr. Brewster added that the Review Committee is faced with the difficult
problem of getting stuff on paper. He then asked Mr. Berry to read. the comments
and recommendations of the Review Committee. Report attached.
Mr. Kern stated he did not like the report. He was particularly upset because they did not specifically recommend the office secretary. When he
challenged the Committee on this point they said they did not know enough
about that need. He continued that this Committee was supposed to be superduper, but the report was not. They spent hours with our Comitittee and
Mr. Kern! a arguments
Executive and were provided with reams of material.
got some things changed, but did not get the inclusion of the office secretary.
Mr. Kern's discussion on these points was in his capacity as a member of the
Executive Committee of the Council of Social Agencies.
Mr. Kern stated that one point in the report raised a question in his mind.
What about
1e are largely resticting our activities to Negro-white relations.
Are
we
missing
a
bet
here?
Orientals and other non-white minorities?
Mr. Rbbinson reported on the case of Mrs. Helen Ooe, a Chinese girl, who had
requested his aid as President o± the Urban League to assist with a discriminatory
job situation. We toot: action 'in her' behalf.
Mr. Berry stated that we have always exbended service to all who requested
it - several Orientals and Mexicans and frequently white persons. He pointed
out that many Orientals did not wish to be identified with Negroes because
they looked up on Negroes as being further down than themselves.
Mrs. Corbett asked if any group was interested in Chinese welfare?
Mr. Robinson mentioned Father Tobin's Committee, Chinese Consul, The Chinese
Community Center, etc.
Mr. Enna said Chinese situation is bad.
face iaanj discriminations.
They are taken into some unions, but
After further discussion the Board agreed that we should continue to serve
all who apply to us for help, ana should encourage Oriental participation
wherever possible.
7.
Board Vacancies - Mr. Robinson mentioned that we have two Board vacancies
He
created by the resignation of Dr. Kerr who left the city and Mr. Hill.
asked the Nominating Committee to reconvene and bring in nominations for
these vacancies. Mr. Brewster is Chairman of this Committee. He is assisted
by Mr. Ivey and Mr. Green.
It was suggested that an outstanaing Oriental might serve well in one of
these vacancies.
-s--
3.
Speeches - Mr. Berry reported on the opportunity to bring Dr. Granger
here to fill several important speaking engagements including Oregon
Conference of Social 7ork and City Club, if we were able to pay travel.
He indicated that he could account for all, but lOO. He added, however,
that a member, Mr. Herman Baker, had offered to assist in special efforts
by raising money from individuals who would not otherwise contribute.
iR.
RN iOVED, Lffi.
INA SECONDED THAT
ACCEIFT Mit. RAKE'S OFFER TO JSSIST.
9.
INVITE DR. GPNGER HERE
ND
Miscellany - Mr. Berry reported that Mr. James Chrysler has been promoted to
the position of Supervisor with Multnoinah County Public Welfare, thus becoming
the first Negro to occupy such a position in Portland.
Mrs. Smith reported that the business which she and her husband are operating
in Vanport has approximately 50% white trade during daytime hours.
It was agreed unanimously to suspend the August Board meeting due to large
number of Board members planning to be out of the city.
Adjournment 12; 00.
H441*3H*i**
For the first tj.me in 2
years of Urban League operation in Portland, I
can report to you that conditions generally are pointing toward improvement on
the race relations front in Portland.
The reasons for this improvement are
due to a number of factors foremost among them are:
1.
Improvement on the job front.
During the past 90 days we have
placed more than twice the number
/
ol' workers on permanent jobs than
in any comparable period in the past.
As we read these events the job ianproveinent results from:
1.
Continuous and cumulative effbrts
over the past 21 years.
2:. Good newspapers interpretation
through the Oregonian, Clarion
and the Northwest Enterprise.
The recent spread in the Oregonian
with story by Stewart Holbrook, the
*
good publicity during FIr. Tholnast
visit were contributing factors.
Conversely the improvement in the
technique of reporting general news
about Negroes has helped.
This im-
provement is particularly noticeable
in the absence of identification of
race in reporting minor crimes, in
which Negroes have been involved.
-2-
In many instances of crime
reporting we are able to identify
principals as Negroes because of
the address, locality of names of
persons.
I recommend that a comiiiittee from our Boar4 be appointed to meet Mr. Notson
of the Oregonian and Mr. Sterling of the Journal to thank them for their cooperation and solicit continued assistance.
3.
The job market provided by the
Richland, Washington Atomic Energy
Project.
More than 400 Portlanders
(that we know of) have secured employnient there.
ployed.
More will be em-
None of the men who have
secured ezaploymerib in
ichland are
among the number given earlier as
pacements.
In order to lay the groundwork for the hichiand, washington, situation we
felt the need to secure first hand information.
to Richland.
This
ant senuing a representative
E. Shelton Hill voluntered for the job (before he was officially) on
our staff and while still on vacation).
Finances plagued us - so the Taxpayers
League, Vancouver N. A. A. C. r-. and the Fraternal Association joined us in contributing the necessary funds to finance the trip.
Mr. Hill met with top off icial
of Atomic Energy, General Electric, the prine contractor, subcontractor and union
officials.
This paved the way for a decent 'reception of Negro workers.
The ftichland, Washington Project will require a great deal of continued attention
if the work experience is
o be satisfactory.
I believe our President is to have
something to say on the matter later in this meeting - we have some interesting
-3correspondence with Atomic Energy officials which can be read if you wish.
This correspondence and a subsequent trip to R.ichland indicate the continued
need for attention in Richland,
Relief Rolls
Results on the job front are reflected on relief rolls.
Ve have asked the
Central Office of Multnomah County Public Welfare for complete figures on Negro
case load.
time.
They are not able to provide specific and complete information at this
However, the Vanport Office has analyzed its figures and this analysis reveals
that cases among Negroes have declined from 23l to 4
figures are the
in
the past 90 days.
These
ore relevant when we realize that the low figure is taken at the
seasonal point when harvesting and food processing is about complete.
expectancy is an increased load at this tine.
The normal
This reduction in relief rolls
indicates indubitably, a real dollars and cents saving to our community,
Education - Eliot-Holladay Situation
This was fully reported in our last Newsletter.
ready to act at a momens notice.
racial aspects of his job.
from community at large.
Must watch closely and remain
Superintendent Rehmus seems to be sound on the
Help is needed in the area of strengthening his courage
Our President and. Executive Secretary held a conference
with him shorty before hic heart attack.
Colleges
Negro students represented in student bodies at all Portland Colleges, and
University of Oregon, Linfield and Pacific in the state.
this year - none last year.
One student at Linfield
Larger number in schools this year.
Bobby Herndon Jr
Mr. Herndon, Sr., and Urban League member came to seek educational advice at
Urban League last summer.
Mr. Herndon came to Portland to work in shipyaras.
and son stayed in Illinois for his son to finish High school, dune 1947.
to discuss college for his son.
Finances were strained.
Wife
He wanted
We suggested sending for
- 4
son's scholastic record and then discussing college in light of record.
The
record caine - it was excellent, an "A" average with extra cirricuJ.uin participa-
tion in track, bsket ball, band and debating.
Father and I met again and panned
to bring Bobby to Portland, finding part time work for him and. getting him in
school on an abbreviated basis (6 hours - 1/3 schedule) which could be accomplished
for a
3O ca8h outlay over and above railroad fare.
that his son could start college for so little.
a part time job paying
Father was amazed and delighted
We sent for son.
The boy wished to study
l8.75 per week before he arrived.
engineering - we suggested Portland University.
We had secured
Father and son went to University
to register taking with theni the file we has assembled on the student.
immediately admitted and record so outstanding that he was given a
He was
1OO scholarship
on the spot thus enabling him to take a full time course instead of the part time.
He has been assured additional scholarship help in succeeding semesters, if his
work continues on per-college scholastic level.
first tests.
He came in to report after his
His grades were: 97, 95, 96, 98 in Chemistry, Trigonometry, Calculus
and Physics.
Housing
Little break on the housing front.
to keep Negroes hemmed in certain living area continues.
coming in houses for sale by individuals.
Pressure
Public housing remains segregated.
Only noticeable breaks
Purchase is not what most Negroes need.
The Gamble Congressional Committee will hold hearing on housing in Portland during
month of December.
Public
We have asKed for a spot on the agenda.
ducation
Has been largely discussed in section deallng with the Public Press.
However,
our own publication "The Negro adolescent in a white world" has been eagerly
accpted.
Several social studies teachers in public
using it as a teaching unit.
schools are
One University Oregon class and the Graduate School
of Social Work at University of Minnesota have asked for several for teaching
purposes.
-5--
Miscellaneous
The use of the Urban League as an information and referral source is
increasing.
Persons who need advice on housing, social services, education,
jobs, etc come for help.
Some Requests:
1.
I an going to be evicted from my Vanport House,
I went to pay may rent and thy
will you help me?
refused it,
The facts in the case:
Rent is due first of month,
de1inuent after the 5th, eviction notice issued after
the 10th.
This woman went to pay her rent on the 17th
and told .she would have to go to Housing Authority
Attorney office and pay rent pluc
She had exactly
37.50 rent and l0
6.50 Court costs.
carfare.
Further,
tp1
she haddelinquent each month since moving into Project.
The conference revealed that this person had no money to
feed
children until husband in Richiand, Washington, could
make a pay and send money home.
Arranged for welfare
assistance for food and rent until husband sent money.
Arranged for rent to be received at Attorney' s office
with
3.l0 penalty instead of
6.50 and welfare agreed
to pay difference.
2. My baby died in Lultnoman Hospital.
for burial.
Welfare cannot hp mae.
I cannot get help
Can Urban League help?
The mother and father were invited into office for conference.
Social worker at hospital had been told by welfare worcer that
welfare could not assume such charges for a fanily which was
not on relief.
-6I called Director of Social Work for iniormation.
Was advised that assistance was available. Discussed
matter with supervisor in district office. Result-family cared for.
3.
A client has had two A. D. C. checksstolen. Could
only get replacement if two property owners would sign
a relaase bond.
She knows no property holders. Can
Urban League help?
Investigation indicated theft and forgery. Got an
Urban League member arid myself - signed bonds.
Client
got checks and we arranged for her to call at Post Office
and pic up
all
future checks to prevent recurrences of thefts.
Personnel Charges
Mr. Hill caine on the job September 15. He is perfoming in outstanding fashion.
His mt close understanding of our work and intimate knowlege of the city has
enabled him to move right into the job with no difficulty.
Marquerite Kirby has replaced Mrs. Hall as affice secretary. Mrs. Hall left
on August 21.
Miss Kirby is a Portland resident and former student of the University
of Oregon.
This report, the pleasant in certain aspects does not indicate that all is well.
Discriminations are still the rule, rather than the exception, in Portland.
Certain training fields are closed to Negroes:
1. Beautician training and undetaking apprenticeship.
2. Public accommodations remain closed restaurants,
hotels, etc.
3. Dormitory restriction at state colleges.
4.
5.
6.
Jim Crow blood banks in local hospitals.
Jobs and housing always with us.
The recent uprising at E1iot School is indicative
of the anount and extent of bigotry which still exists
in our community.
7. NQ
have great difficulty obtaining insurance of all
This is a particular hardship with auto liability
required by law and difficulty is trict1y on a racial basis.
inds.
p.
6
MINUTES OF BOARD 1ETING
Urban League of Fort1nd
October, 1947
The October, 1947, meeting was dismissed.
There was no quorum.
Edwin C. Berry, Executive 3ecretary
MINUT5 OF BOARD LTING
Urban League of Portland
November 25, 1947
1.
The meeting was called to order at 10:40 A. M.
2.
Roll Call - Present were:
Mr. Robinson, presiding.
Mrs. Elliott Qorbett
Mr. Irving Jnna
Mrs. Mary JJunan
Mr. David Robinson
Mr. Francis Kern
Father L.0. Stone
Father Leorge Campbell
Mr. James Hamilton
Mr.
dwin C. Berry, xecutive Secretary
3.
Minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.
Mr. Robinson mentioned that oui October meeting had been called off due to
absence of a quorum. This was the first and only time in three years of
operation in Portland that the Urban League Board was not able to muster a
quorum.
4.
Ballad For Americans - The album of records, tiBallad For American&1 was
layed for the Board. Some members had not heard it. Mr. Bry reported that
we had produced one hundred albums to be sold for 5.00 peIcept to the
members of Jefferson high School Choir. Choir members purchased their albums
for 2.50. The cost of production was 55 over receipts.
Mr. Berry said the
public relations value more than off set the .cost. If we could produce and sell
the additonal 100 copies at 5.00, we could clear 250. To sell them would
require considerable work on the part of an active committee.
4.
Urban Iague Membership - And Boad Members. - Mr. Robinson mentioned that a
few Board members had overlooked the renewal of their Urban League dues. He
said it was presumed that Board members were first Urban League members and urged
the payment of dues for delinquent members.
Mrs. Corbett agreec. to call and
remind the Board members, who were delinquent. She asked Mr. Berry to see that
she was provided with the list immediately.
5.
Income From Memberships - Mr. Berry reported that our income from memberships
will be do\n about 500 from the anticipated amount from this source.
Mr. Kern mentioned that a large number of our members had moved away and that
we have approximately 500 persons who have not re-newed.
Mr. Snna asked about methods of billing members. He urged thatstrong letter
be prepared to send to delinquent members urging them to pay up.
:,
6.
Nomination Committee Reoorb Mr. Brewster, Chairman of the Nominating ComrrLittee
was unabe to attend the meeting due to pressing personal business. This report
will be mace at a subsequent meeting.
Minutes of Urban League Board Meeting
Page 2
9.
194d Allocation From Communi
Chest - Mr. Kern, our Treasurer, reported
that we had requested 22,B53.0.
e were included in the Chest Campaign for
This calls for orastic reduction in our l9JS plan.
it will elIminate aLl
possibility of staff additions. He auded that the receiving of
l7.UO0.00
was contigent upon the 0hect reaching its goal and the Chest is floundering
now. Mr. Robinson asked our treasurer and
ecutive Secretary to work out a
revised budget plan for presentation to the Board.
l7,U0u.
Mr. Robinson then spoke of the Community Chest shortage. he said the Chest
is % short of its goal. He reported that Chest
agency Presidents and Dfrectors
had been consulted on this matter anc they had gone
on record encouraging the
campaign. to be kept opened with the
assurance that agency Boards would assist
raising the money. He said details of the plan had
not been workea out, but vthen
they were we would be expected to do our part.
10. Secretaryts Repprt
- Mr. Berry gave his report to the Board.
attached.
-
/
Mr. Rqb ins on C
jI.
Complete report
/
r
Appo1ntmentoQiveecretarytoVanportollex
Mr. Kern saio. he thught an important item had been omitted from tue
rert. he aentionMr. Berryt s appointment to the faculty of Vanport becretary' s
College
insocifDepartment.
This is the first time a Negro has had a college post
in the N0rthwest. This is a very important anu significant step.
The Board
joined in commendation and the resiaent ordered the comments made
a part of the
record.
At 12:15 the meeting was adjourned with the last agenda item omitted.