James Lee Dickey: An Analysis of One African-American's Leadership in Jim Crow Texas

March on Washington Movement

To draw attention to the plight of African Americans, A. Phillip Randolph organized a March on Washington demanding the “Right to Work and Fight for Our Country.” African Americans seized on this energy. The grass roots effort offered action to the most ordinary people. Randolph wanted the march to be all black because he was trying to entice black nationalists to participate. (The government dreaded public demonstrations; the Bonus Marchers in 1932 and the Women’s Suffrage Parade in 1913 had resulted in chaos.) A black demonstration could easily turn violent due to Washington, D. C.’s large black population and its location in the South, so Roosevelt sent his wife, Eleanor, a staunch civil rights advocate, and two other liberals to dissuade Randolph. Agreeing only if concessions were made, Randolph called off the march when FDR issued Executive Order 8802 banning racial discrimination in defense industries. Though it eventually lost its teeth, Executive order 8802 was an economic victory for blacks in America.
 
A. Philip Randolph continued the March on Washington Movement with three goals in mind:Recent events in India had showcased non-violent practices that complemented the style of militancy Randolph desired. His organization stood at the ready to March on Washington within 24 hours. Timing was not on the the MOWM’s side, however. With America embroiled in total war with Hitler’s Germany, racial unrest was seen as unpatriotic. The focus of gaining equality now turned to service in the name of country.
 

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