The Racial Problem

Fourth View Given On Racial Problem

by Charles L. Allen

Atlanta Constitution

(January 4, 1957)

            Why do some Negroes prefer segregation? In previous columns we have looked a various reasons people give for segregation or integration. In the last column in this series let us consider the reasons of one other group--the Negroes who prefer segregation.

            (1) Some negroes who prefer segregation because they believe they have a better chance if their competition in life is limited to their own race. They think that as long as Negroes maintain their own churches and schools, look to each other for professional services, trade with each other, etc., they will get along better.

            Bit if integration were a fact, they fear that in competing with the better-trained white people they would suffer. They feel that in time this objection would be overcome but it would be along time and would displace many Negro people from their means of livelihood and their positions in their communities.

            (2) Some Negroes prefer segregation because they want to maintain their own race. They fear that because they are such a minority group in this country that, as a race, they would be swallowed up. They believe in the sanctity of each race and fear intermarriage with equal concern as do some white people. They contend that many negroes 'cross the line' every year and under integration the number would multiply rapidly until finally only the very lowest class of Negroes would be left.

            (3) Some Negroes prefer segregation because they prefer their own society and do not want the white man coming into it. They say they like their own churches and schools better as they are, that they prefer Negro neighbors and that generally they are freer and happier with their own people.

            (4) Some prefer segregation  because they feel it is a lesser evil than the fighting, ill will and hardships that come through efforts to do away with it. Some Negro people say they prize their friendships with the white people, live in good relations with them and wish to continue as they are. Some do not feel the gains are as great as the losses that integration would bring.

            (5) Well--as clearly as I could, I have given some reasons why some white people prefer segregation; why some Negro people prefer integration' why some white people prefer integration' why some Negroes prefer segregation. Many of the reasons I have stated are not valid, but they are reasons people give. As one looks at this matter from four sides, he sees there is some merit in each side as well as wrong thinking on each side.

            This is a social problem that must be honestly faced and worked at intelligently. On one occasion the Lord said the Peter, "Put up thy sword" (John 18:11). I feel that is advice we must follow here. Nothing is solved through violence but all things can be solve through love. "Love never faileth."

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posted 22 June 2008