Box 19, Folder 18, Document 94

Box 19, Folder 18, Document 94

CAMP HIGHLAND, R. F. D. NO. 1, SMYRNA, GA, PHYLLIS WHEATLEY BRANCH, 599 TATNALL ST., S. W.

‘Lfoung Women’s Christian Association

72 EDGEWOOD AVENUE, NORTHEAST ATLANTA, GEORGIA

Vv August 8, 1963

The Honorable Ivan Allen
Mayor of Atlanta

City Hall

Atlanta 3, Georgia

Dear Mr. Allen:

How proud I was to be a citizen of Atlanta when I read your presen-
tation to President Kennedy's Committee on Civil Rights:

There are many of us who feel that whenever the rights and
privileges of any one group of people are denied, the rights of others
are in jeopardy.

We believe that when a business is "open to the public”, it
should mean all the public, not just "white public", Protestant public”,
et cetera.

It is certainly commendable when local communities desegregate
voluntarily, as Atlanta has done in some instances. However, this Federal
action seems necessary to enable all to move forward in this regard.

The Young Women's Christian Association, of which I am President
in Atlanta, has long been working to help build an appreciation of the
dignity and human rights of all people, regardless of race, creed, or
color.

We admire your courage and will continue to support your
efforts in behalf of our city.

Sincerely,

ol aua Aadrtr_,

Mrs. Edward L. Askren
President

LMA/1b

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