Workers of the World, Unite!

ONE YEAR OF THE TAFT-HARTLEY LAW — See Page 4 — T H E MILITANT PUBLISHED WEEKLY IN THE INTERESTS OF THE WORKING PEOPLE

Vol. X II - No. 35 NEW YORK, N. Y., MONDAY, AUGUST 30, 194« PRICE: FIVE CENTS War-Crippled Veteran Fights Discharge in loyalty’ Purge A Fighter for the Working Class SWP Calls on Pres. Truman National Campaign Launched To Scrap Political Blacklist In Defense of James Kutcher FARRELL DOBBS GRACE CARLSON NEWARK, Aug. 25 -- An enraged public opinion The Aug. 2 M ilitant carried a letter of Farrell Dobbs to Attorney General Clark challenging his issuance of a “ sub­ is gathering in support of Janies Kutcher, legless versive” blacklist and demanding on behalf of the SWP a public hearing. We are printing here the reply of the Attorney Newark veteran threatened with dismissal from his General’s office and Dobbs’ letter to President Truman on position with the Veteran’s Administration because this issue. Labor Day of membership in the So-^ AMC:RPW :DJ not ask me about my political UNITED STATES cialist Workers Party. La­ views or the party to which I be­ DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE bor and veteran’s organizations longed; they drafted me. . . When Washington 25, D. C. have announced their determina­ I was at San Pietro, Italy, in Message of tion to fight this police state November 1943, the German mor­ August 16, 1948 “ loyalty” edict to the lim it. tar crew on the other side of the Mr. Farrell Dobbs lines did not ask me about my Socialist Workers Party The threatened firin g of Kutch- political views or the party to 116 University Place er is the most outrageous inci­ which I belonged; they fired at Dobbs - Carlson New York 3, New York dent highlighting the star-cham­ ber witchhunting procedure in­ me. The army surgeons did not Dear Mr. Dobbs: stituted by President Truman and ask about my political views or By FARRELL DOBBS and GRACE CARLSON This is in reply to your letter of July 29, 1948, to the his Department of Justice. The the party to which I belonged; Attorney General, demanding a statement of charges and notice to Kutcher of pending dis­ they amputated both my legs, one Nominees for President and Vice-President public hearing with respect to the designation of your organ­ missal is based on Truman’s Exe­ above the knee, the other just be­ ization as within Executive Order 9835. cutive Order which denies federal low. The Army did not ask me about my political views or the In the absence of provision therefor in the Executive employment to those who belong We take the occasion of this Labor Day to address Order, the Department does not contemplate holding hearings to organizations listed as “ sub­ party to which I belonged when versive” by the Attorney General. it gave me the Purple Heart.” ourselves to the mighty host of Organized Labor on in such matters, with or without specifications or charges. It w ill be glad, however, to receive and consider any statement In his answer to the loyalty UNCONSTITUTIONAL the most crucial problem before it — political action. or material which any designated organization desires to sub­ board Kutcher stigmatizes the In concluding his statement m it relevant to the factual or legal validity of such designa­ government for using the “worst Kutcher brands the entire proce­ Every Labor Day message of union papers and pi’actises employed by police tion. dure involved in these hearings leaders stresses political action. But you w ill study Respectfully, states.” He says that the SWP as “illegal and unconstitutional.” For the Attorney General demanded to be removed from He insists that they be open to the blacklist. While rejecting the these statements in vain fo r any new and vital political (Signed) Alex Campbell the press and the public because Assistant Attorney General demand for a hearing, the admin­ program that w ill inspire and mobilize the workers. the issue “ concerns the American istration is resorting to “punitive people as a whole.” He warns his a n d discriminatory methods We read your statement, W illiam Green, telling us in vivid SOCIALIST WORKERS PARTY persecutors that he w ill not re­ against members of the Socialist strict his defense to the “ channels detail'of the reactionary crimes of the 80th Congress and sound­ 116 University Place Workers Party.” provided by the government.” ing the keynote: “ USE YOUR VOTE!” Use it for whom or New York 3, New York JAMES KUTCHER AFFIRMS MEMBERSHIP The support being promised by what? You don’t say. It seems you and the other top A FL August 26, 1948 Unlike many who have recently leading CIO officials to the President Harry S. Truman leaders alre torn between Truman, the greatest presidential been prosecuted for their views or Kutcher Defense indicates a grow­ White House strikebreaker in U.S. history, and Dewey, banner-bearer of the affiliations, Kutcher boldly and ing awareness in trade union cir­ Washington, D. C. Republican Party of Taft-Uartleyism and Standard Oil. “proudly affirms membership in cles that the loyalty inquisitions CIVIL RIGHTS LEADERS the Socialist Workers Party.” are not confined to government Dear Mr. President: employment. Readers of The M ill- A Shamefaced Endorsement On July 28 I addressed a letter to Attorney General Tom “ I make no secret of my views Clark protesting the inclusion of the Socialist Workers Party or those of the Socialist Workers As for you of the CIO leadership — Murray, Reuther, Rieve on the “ subversive” blacklist compiled by the Department BACK PARDON FOR THE 18 Party. . . I believe that Social­ A Biography — and your colleagues — it is an open secret that you are preparing of Justice. I demanded in that letter that the Attorney Gen­ ism is the only system that can “ The Story of a Fighter eral schedule a public hearing fo r which we would be given The Civil Rights Defense Com­ son, CIO Eastern Regional Direc­ bring humanity peace or freedom to make a belated and shamefaced endorsement of Truman — a bill of particulars by the Department of Justice and at which mittee has issued a national ap­ tor; John Dewey, eminent philo­ . . . whether employed by the for the Working Class” the man you said you wouldn’t touch with a ten-foot pole less we would be permitted to present witnesses and submit rele­ sopher and educator; and Norman government or not, I propose to peal to the hundreds of organiza­ - See Page 2 - than two months ago. You are planning to thrust Truman and vant evidence. Thomas, Socialist Party presiden­ vote for Farrell Dobbs and Grace tions that came to the aid of the the Democratic Party down the throats of the unwilling rank A fter almost three weeks of waiting, I received a reply tial candidate. Carlson next November.” 18 Socialist Workers Party mem­ In response to charges of being tant are acquainted with recent and file. from Mr. Alexander M. Campbell, Assistant Attorney General, The letter recalls the support rejecting our request for such hearings in your Executive Or­ bers imprisoned during the war given the 18 SWP and Minnea­ subversive, Kutcher declared “ I firings at the Philadelphia West- do not advocate force and violence inghouse plant a month ago. Here On Labor Day in Cadillac Square, Detroit — which in the- der 9835. The only avenue of redress which Mr. Campbell most under the Smith “ Gag” Act, to polis Truckdrivers Local 544 — past has rung to the march of hundreds of thousands in m ilitant generously offered us is the submission of a statement or CIO leaders “ who served 12 to to achieve socialism; the only militants were fired from private support the campaign to secure a time in my life I ever practiced material “relevant to the factual or legal validity” of desig­ 16 months prison terms solely employment on orders from the demonstrations — the workers of the CIO and AFL have been force and violence was under the nating our organization as “ subversive.” fu ll presidential pardon and re­ because of their political views U. S. Navy because it alleged they summoned by leaders like Waller Reuther and Frank X. orders given me in the Arm y by belonged to or supported organ­ Acting on the basis of the blacklisting of the Socialist storation of civil rights for the and union activities” and states the U. S. Government.” izations supposed to be “ subver­ M artell to assemble together and pay tribute to Truman. Workers Party by the Department of Justice, members and 18. they “ should no longer be penal­ More the accuser than the ac­ sive.” An aroused local union We say that you union leaders — CIO and A FL — befoul friends of my party are being victimized by federal officials Among the signers of the ap­ ized by their unjust conviction and departments and deprived of their employment and means cused, Kutcher hurls a charge of forced their rehiring. every progressive tradition of organized labor when you dare peal are Roger Baldwin, Amer­ under a vicious law.” It urges all political persecution against the A t the press conference, report­ of livelihood. ican Civil Liberties Union Direc­ labor and liberal organizations to to present “ Injunction” l lahry Truman to the workers of Detroit The latest and most outrageous case of injustice by the government inquisitors which will ed on page 2 in this issue, George tor; August Scholle, president of send resolutions to Truman de­ ring from one corner of the coun­ Novack of the Civil Rights De­ and America as a “friend of labor.” But you must go through Federal Government is the discharge of Mr. James Kutcher the Michigan State CIO Council; manding the pardons and to con­ of Newark, N. J., from his job with the Veterans Administra- try to the other among the m il­ fense Committee announced that a with this shameful spectacle, because you have nothing else to Willard S. Townsend, president tribute to the Minneapolis Case lions of veterans and working nation-wide committee is now be­ offer. You are bankrupts. (Continued on page 2) of the CIO United Transport Pardon Fund of the CRDC, 19 people. ing formed to defend the civil Service Employes; Irving Abram­ W. 10th St., New York 11, N. Y. “ My draft board,” he says, “ did rights of James Kutcher. A Blind Alley Your kind of politics has led labor into a blind alley. Your short-sighted and cowardly refusal to lead the workers to the building of their own party is the reason for the 80th Congress ITU Calls for Congress of Labor and its Taft-H artley Law — yes, and for the 79th and 78th and 77th Congresses which laid the basis for the notorious record In an inspiring pre-Labor comes as the first positive and tions in conformity with this strike for that reason you haven’t Kartley Law, loyalty tests, gov­ dependent Party” resolution to enough to get any wages ernment witch-hunt committees” Day appeal to the American sound proposal fo r unified action resolution.” lim it membership to “ practical of their successor. You have deliberately disarmed the workers against the Slave Labor Law to either. . . which have caused “ increased printers.” Instead, they voted to politically before their enemies. union movement, the embattled be voiced by an influential na­ COMBINED ACTION “ We do not have to beg for discrimination because of race, broaden the base of membership AFL International Typographical tional union. From the start of It is clear from this and other the right to organize and bargain religion or political beliefs.” The to include all workers in the progressive actions taken by the United Combat Union has called fo r a National the post-war anti-union drive, collectively now, any more than lesolution reiterated “our deter­ printing industry except those* Emergency Congress of Labor in The M ilitant has repeatedly urged ITU convention that a year of we have had to beg for them for mination to help preserve and like the pressmen, under the But you do not reflect the real sentiments of those you Washington to fight govemment- the calling of such a Congress of bitter battle to preserve their a hundred years. The same factor extend the traditional rights of jurisdiction of other established profess to represent. Their true feelings are embodied in the by - injunction and the Taft- Labor. It is gratifying that the union has taught the printers the determines whether or not work­ labor and of the common people, unions. New members w ill include necessity for combined action of appeal of the A FL International Typographical Union conven­ Hartley Slave Labor Act. Adop­ oldest union in the country—a ing people of this country are and we strongly condemn any varitypers, teletypers, proof­ union which deserves the com­ all labor if the Taft-Hartley Act going to get a fair living as has type of discrimination .based on readers and operators of any tion to itU the unions to convene together in Washington for a tion of a resolution with this appeal, introduced by the dele­ mendation of all labor for its is to be erased. determined that point in the past, race, religion or political beliefs.” new processes. National Emergency Congress of Labor to unitedly combat the uncompromising battle against The militancy and progressive and that factor is the ability to This is a big step in the direc­ gates of the striking Chicago FULL DEMOCRACY wave of injunctions and the Taft-Hartley Law. local, was a highlight of the the Taft-Hartley Act—has now sentiment that pervaded the ITU withhold your labor long enough tion of industrial organization taken the lead in projecting this convention is particularly signi­ to get a fa ir break. This resolution and the free­ and undoubtedly w ill encourage We hail the members and leaders of the ITU who IT U ’s 90th Convention, held in Milwaukee, Aug. 16-21. united action program. ficant because it is an old-line “ Eliminate that possibility and dom from red-baiting were in the wide-spread sentiment grow­ have sponsored this great, unifying program. We go Reflecting the fighting mood of In its resolution, the ITU calls craft union, steeped in traditional you are not engaged in collective refreshing contrast to recent con­ ing in the printing trades fo r one the union which has been spear­ upon “ the American Federation conservatism. bargaining at a ll: you are en­ ventions of other unions. The industrial union. This sentiment further and say that such a Congress of Labor — heading the struggle against the of Labor, the Congress of Indus­ President Randolph, who was gaged in collective begging.” minority—in this case reactionary has been strengthened by the —was accorded fu ll democratic Taft-Hartley Law, the delegates trial Organizations, the Railroad tile main target of attack of the The convention voted to con­ shameful spectacle of other union which we have long urged -- provides the necessary rights to state its position on all gave an overwhelming vote of Brotherhoods, the United Mine opposition, made a powerful tinue the practical sacrifices all members in the printing trades questions. A proposal to bar Reese and sure instrument not only for united labor strug­ confidence to President Woodruff Workers, International Associa­ defense of the policy his ad­ ITU members have been making continuing to work in the shops J. Highfield, an opposition dele­ Randolph and the Executive Coun­ tion of Machinists and other in­ ministration had pursued and to finance the Chicago and other struck by the ITU. Another reso­ gle against the Taft-Hartley Slave Law but for the gate from Akron who had testified cil for their militant policy. dependent unions to convene a proposed to continue. strikes, including a 5% defense lution provides, fo r the first time, for the government in an NLRB launching of labor’s own party. They decisively defeated the National Emergency Congress in “ The idea of having to have fund assessment which provides for chain-wide collective bargain­ hearing against the ITU, was resolution of a small reactionary Washington for the purpose of the stamp of government ap­ payment of 60% of weekly wages ing where a group of papers in ruled out on the grounds that he anti - administration group that working out joint plans to combat proval upon a group of workers to married strikers and 40% to different cities are owned by a Vote for Dobbs-Carlson had been duly elected by his would have compelled the ITU anti-union injunctions and all before they can bargain collec­ single for the duration of any single publisher. membership to represent them. officers to sign the Taft-Hartley ether attacks by the present tively is a mistaken idea,” said walkout. Through this fund, the The convention recorded that As the only presidential and vice-presidential can­ The convention, however, voted “yellow dog” affidavits. They in­ NLRB, as well as a concerted Randolph. “ The laws of the Board Chicago strike and the Nassau the IT U ’s year-long fight has him a public censure fo r his didates who stand for genuine independent labor structed the ITU leaders to con­ campaign for the repeal of the itself have provided no such County, N. Y.. strikes have been already won hundreds of new conduct. contracts in conformity with the political action and for the building of labor’s own tinue the bitter strikes in Chi­ vicious (Taft-Hartley) law itself.” restrictions. In fact, you have a maintained for over nine months. cago and elsewhere in defense of This resolution is to be issued perfect right to strike to make A significant sign of the pro­ The ITU has been taught by ITU wage and union security party, we ask the support and vote of the American the union’s traditional contrac­ as an “open appeal” to “all trade the employer bargain with you gressive attitude of the conven­ its fight of the past year to policies. While the convention was union boidies” and the ITU dele­ whether you have been certified tion was its adoption of a strong broaden its viewpoint on organ­ in session, it received the cheer­ workers as the best way to show your desire for a tual relations. The ITU’s call for a National gate to the AFL convention is or not, and i f you don’t have resolution against “the wave of izational structure. The delegates ing news that the Philadelphia party and program free from all capitalist influence. Emergency Congress of Labor “instructed to introduce proposi- enough economic strength to oppressive acts, such as the Taft- voted down, 274 to 60, an “ In- 1 newspapers had signed. Page Two THE MILITANT Monday, August 30,1948 Political Action Record of CIO and AFL Leadeis Election Campaign By Art Preis er of the CIO, and the Stalinists Republican tickets, they were could not deliver the labor vote and build a modern industrial forward, the building of labor’s Manager’sColumn with whom he . at that time col­ told to vote for the Democratic directly through the discredited union movement. own party. These leaders will Murray, Green, Reuther, W hit­ laborated, established Labor’s or Republican candidates on the Democratic Party. Then the CIO Today, they are learning that have to be repudiated and re­ ney, K roll and the other national their present conservative lead­ By George Clarke, SWP Campaign Manager Non-Partisan League. The LNPL ALP ticket! leaders, with Sidney Hillman in placed by a new, more courageous trade union leaders are continu­ ers, tied to the capitalist govern­ was represented as the ajiswer to the lead, projected the CIO Poli­ In this corner we w ill present families listening from their ing to scold tlie workers fo r not THE PAY-OFF ment and the old boss parties, are and far-seeing leadership in or­ the workers’ demands. Unfortu­ tical Action Committee, which many items culled from letters porches and passing motorists registering to vote and blaming a brake upon the further progress der to clear the way for labor’s nately, the workers did not have By 1937 came the pay-off for was nothing but a dressed-up ver­ and reports throughout the coun­ slowing down to catch what they the rank and file for labor’s weak the practical experience in the this policy of coralling labor’s sion of the old LNPL. of labor in its next great move political advancement. political position. The question try telling of the stirring cam­ could of the speeches. Nine subs political field that they had in the votes for Roosevelt through the The immediate reward of the that the top union leaders have paign for Dobbs and Carlson and and over 50 copies of the M ilitant economic field and were unpre­ LNPL and ALP. Roosevelt stab­ workers for their support of the to answer is why, after more than the local SWP candidates, of the were sold at the meeting. The pared to cope with the trickery bed the CIO in the back during Democrats through CIO-PAC tours of the presidential candi­ comrades say that “ the new a dozen years of the most intense of the LNPL policy. the Little Steel Strike with his labor political activity this coun­ v;as such legislation as the dates and many other notes of friends made in Pontiac have be­ In actuality, the LNPL was de­ “ plague on both your houses” SVJP Calls on Pres. Truman try has ever known, large sec­ Smith-Connelly anti-strike law. interest. Campaign workers: come the center for building a signed to channelize the political declaration. Democratic govern­ tions of the American workers Write your reports to this col­ branch in this important auto action of the workers back into ors in Ohio, Pennsylvania and 79th CONGRESS have become so disgusted with umn. union stronghold.” the old muddy stream of capital­ Michigan sent troops out tq break The Democratic-controlled 79th * * * * * * the kind of politics and candidates To Strap Political Blacklist ist politics and support of the the steel strike. Mayor Kelly of Congress, elected by PAC votes, offered them that they won’t even (Continued from page 1) SEATTLE: Farrell Dobbs be­ CLEVELAND: Grace had a Democratic machine and Roose­ Chicago, a loyal henchman of proceeded under the Truman post­ bother to go to the polls. tion. Mr. Kutcher is a Purple Heart veteran who served four gan his nationwide tour in this press conference on her arrival in velt. Roosevelt, perpetrated the Mem­ war administration to enact one working class center, famous for Cleveland. The Plain Dealer and We can dismiss as mere slan­ orial Day massacre. Boss Hague reactionary law after another. It and one-half years in the recent war. Both his legs were der the usual explanation of the The LNPL provided the form ­ amputated as the result of injuries sustained in action with its great General Strike in 1919, the News printed her picture and of Jersey City, another ardent cut the heart out of rent and union bureaucrats that the work­ ula and technique that the union the U. S. infantry on the Italian front. Mr. Kutcher’s “crime,” with a series of inspiring meet­ interview's. Rocseveltian, hounded' and ban­ price control, repealed excess * * * ers are “ just too dumb” to know leaders have used to this day to according to the Loyalty Board of the Veterans Administration, ings. His blistering attack on ned CIO meetings. jro fits taxes. Only the action of what’s good for them or “ just too give the workers the impression is membership in the Socialist Workers Party, a fact which Dave Beck, Czar Number 2 of the NEW Y'ORK: Irving Beinin, the Republicans in the Senate lazy to get down tb the polls.” that they are engaging in inde­ A t the 1938 convention of the he does hot deny but openly admits and defends. Teamsters Union, and Beck’s New York Campaign Manager, prevented final passage of Tru­ That’s a cover-up for the real pendent labor politics, while in Mine Workers, Lewis had to state Mr. President, these are* the methods of a police state howling retort are reported else­ reports that having concluded its man’s “ draft strikers” law, pas­ reason: The deceptive and mis­ reality they are still tied to the that the Roosevelt administration, which you have vehemently condemned as President of the where in this issue. petition campaign to put Dobbs sed b y . the House with but 13 leading political policies of the old capitalist political machines. elected with labor’s money arid United States and as candidate fo r that office. A ll of the The Stalinists echoed Beck’s and Carlson on the N.Y. ballot votes, had not given the Workers' votes opposed. union leaders from the New Deal The unions maintain their own constitutional safeguards and traditional democratic procedures groans when comrade Dobbs tore with/ 24,000 signatures,, twice the a thing in the past two years. By By the time the November which have maintained the innocence of a person until proved period to the present day. electioneering organizations; but into their treacherous policies number required, the local is be­ 1940, Lewis’s break with Roose­ guilty, which deny “ guilt by association,” which provide for From the very inception of the these are subverted to the sup­ 1946 «lections rolled around, Mur­ and into their new-found idol ginning . an energetic political velt was irrevocable. But tied to tria l by a ju ry of one’s peers, the examination of charges and CIO, in the very midst of Roose­ port of the Democrats and Re­ ray was complaining bitterly that Henry Wallace at a meeting at campaign. The campaign opens capitalist politics, he could only the introduction of evidence, the presentation and the- cross- velt’s first term, strong sentiment publicans. Congress — the Democratic Con­ the Yesler Housing Project. Al­ with a combined election rally turn back to the Republicans- examination of witnesses —- all of these, despite manifold as­ fo r independent labor political In New York state, Lewis, Du- gress — had not passed a single though the audience of 50 was and Trotsky Memorial meeting on whom labor had repudiated de­ surances to the contrary, are being ground to bits by your action existed in the newly-organ­ binsky, Hillman and the Stalin­ piece of progressive legislation largely pro-Wallace at the outset Aug. 27. An all-day Active Work­ cisively eight years before. “ in nine years.” But still the ClO- executive orders and their administration by your Department of the meeting, the forum’s spon­ ers Conference to plan all phases ized union ranks. Workers who ists had to carry the deception a of Justice. From 1936 to 1942, there was PAC tried to mislead the workers sors and the bulk of the audience of the campaign is scheduled for Understood the need fo r labor’s step further. They actually had This tendency of your government towards the institu­ a continuous decline in workers’ once more into voting For Dem­ rallied to comrade Dobbs’ defense Sunday, Aug. 29. independent organization and ac­ to-set up a new party, the Am­ tion of thought control and the use of police state methods \ otes and a continuous shift of ocratic “friends o f labor.” when the Stalinists tried to dis­ * * * tion in the economic field began erican Labor Party, in 1936. A is clearly demonstrated in the tre a tm e n t o f oiir party. The to feel the equal need for labor’s large and influential section of lower-middle class votes to the The workers would not respond. following is the sequence of the arbitrary procedures borrowed rupt the meeting. CONNECTICUT: Anunder- independence in the political field. the New York workers were So­ Republicans. Offered no way- out Many “ sat on their hands” — be­ from the practices of dictatorships and utterly alien to any A second meeting was held at handed campaign to make it tough Big grievances were being built cialists and Communists, brought of the capitalist two-party blind cause they could not in good con­ system of democracy: the University of Washington, for minority parties to get on the up against the Roosevelt admin­ up in the tradition of opposition alley, the voters stayed away science vote fo r either the Dem­ 1. Your Department of Justice placed the Socialist marking the firs t appearance of ballot has been opened by Con­ istration, because the workers to the boss parties. Some of the from the polls or followed the ocrats or the Republicans., The Workers Party on the “subversive” blacklist without prior an SWP spokesman on that cam­ necticut politicians. A New Haven were forced to fight pitched bat­ largest unions, like the Amalga­ futile course of voting fo r the Republicans, for the firs t time in notification to our party, without a hearing and without any pus. The final election rally, held paper published an insidious ar­ tles for the promised rights of mated Clothing Workers and the' “outs” just to get rid of the 14 years, secured a m ajority in specification of the grounds fo r such an action. under party auspices on Aug. 20 ticle saying that voters have been collective bargaining. International Ladies Garment “ ins.” Congress. In alliance with a large 2. While we were awaiting an answer from your Attorney at Swedish Hall, had an audience misled into signing petitions. Mrs. Workers, were traditionally on By the time the 1942 Congres­ section- of Democrats, they pro­ General to our demand fo r a hearing, in which we were pre­ of Boeing strikers, teamsters, Redick, the Secretary of State, LEWIS AND STALINISTS record fo r a Labor Party. sional elections were approach­ ceeded to complete the job of pared to demonstrate the injustice o f listing the Socialist seamen as well as students and publishes the names struck off Taking cognizance of this sen­ I f the New York workers would ing, it became clear that the pro- anti-labor legislation and hand­ Workers Party as “ subversive,” federal departments have been housewives. the petitions. Who gave Mrs. timent, John L. Lewis, then lead­ not vote for the Democratic or Democratic labor lieutenants outs to Big Business already well using the listing to deprive our members of their livelihood. Both Seattle daiiies, the Times Redick the right to publish these started by their Democratic pre­ 3. Iii violation of the promise made by the Attorney and the Post-Intelligencer car­ names? Who’s behind this cam­ decessors. General to Roger Baldwin, Director of the American Civil ried lengthy interviews with paign of intimidation ? Liberties Union, to extend a hearing to any organization comrade Dobbs. His remark that $ * * Today, the sentiment in labor’s challenging its blacklisting, the Department of Justice has he had. “ as good a chance of be­ ranks fo r genuine independent PENNSYLVANIA: The Penn­ denied us such a hearing. I am enclosing all the relevant ing elected as H arry Truman” CIO, Veterans Leaders labor political action, through the sylvania campaign began with a documentation. was relayed over Associated formation of labor’s own party bang-up picnic at the Torchia It would obviously be fruitless for us to pursue this Press wires to papers throughout and a complete break with capi­ Farm in Reading on Aug. 15. A matter further with the Department of Justice or with any the country. large bus-load of people from talist politics, is again running other federal department since they all claim their powers * * $ strong. This is reflected indirect­ Philadelphia joined carfuls from Pledge Aid to Kutcher are limited by your Executive Orders. They have placed re­ Allentown, Pittsburgh and the ly by the large support that Wal­ sponsibility upon you as President of the United States and MICHIGAN: Glowing reports friends from Reading to make up NEWARK, Aug. 25 — “ 11 some details about his employ­ tain that the National CIO would lace’s Progressive Party is mus­ have indicated by implication that you remain the only court of Grace Carlson’s speaking tour a large crowd. Main speech was ain not fighting ths case only ment with the Veterans Admin­ “ repudiate this vicious persecu­ tering. of redress in the government. in Michigan keep coming into the Campaign office. Detroit, Flint, made by the National Campaign istration. He told about how he tion and give fu ll support to the In this crucial hour and with I demand, Mr. President, that you take steps to quash the for myself. Somebody has to Pontiac and Saginaw papers feat­ Manager. More than $100 was had received a “ Very Good” re­ defense of James Kutcher.” the golden opportunity afforded Department of Justice “ subversive” blacklisting as it is clear­ stand up sometime and call a halt ured interviews with comrade netted to apply to the first-rate port in the annual Efficiency A high point of the conference by the decomposition of the Dem­ ly unconstitutional and in violation of the Bill of Rights. In to these persecutions. If, by my Carlson. sound equipment recently pur­ Rating made by the V.A. only a was the testimony of Reverend ocratic Party, the CIO and AFL line with this you must issue orders to all departments and stand, 1 can save any veteran or Genora Dollinger, our candidate chased. month before he received his dis­ John R. Daniels, a Congregational lop leaders offer no way out,to agencies of the federal government to immediately cease and government employe from gov­ Minister from Union, New Jer­ for U.S. Senator from Michigan, The loud speaker equipment charge notice. the workers. They are trying to desist from removing government employes on the basis of ernment persecution in the future this blacklist. writes us that Flint’s largest was used fo r the firs t time at a Holderman has recently been sey, the Chaplain of the Newark work the old skin game of using I w ill consider my fig h t worth Chapter of the AVC and a mem­ As a firs t step in this direction- I am demanding that radio station WFDF and station Phila. meeting on Aug. 17. Peo­ given the CIO award for the best CIO-PAC, and possibly the A F L ’s while.” you remove the Socialist Workers Party organization im­ WWOK announced comrade Carl­ ple. listened from open windows work in defense of civil rights in ber of the Disabled War Veterans. new Labor’s Educational and This is how James Kutcher Jimmy, he said was the best liked mediately from the Department of Justice “ subversive”, black­ son’s appearance in General and doorsteps and in little groups the past year. He vigorously de­ Political League, to rehabilitate summed up the aims of his strug­ man in the chapter, a loyal mem­ list since there is apparently insufficient or inconclusive evi­ Motor’s city. Station WMRP in within tw'o blocks in all directions. nounced the witchhunting carried the Democratic Party and line up gle for civil rights at a well-at­ ber of the AVC. He called on all dence which cannot-be made known or tested in a public hear­ F lint interviewed comrade Carl­ 12 subs were sold and plans were on by the government, the votes for Truman — Truman tended press conference held at veterans to rally in his defense. ing or in an open trial. son. advanced fo r the organization of The State CIO President told who has broken more strikes than the Robert Treat Hotel this after- It is an act of courage for Jimmy I f you have any doubts on this score, Mr. President, you Comrade Carlson addressed a a Dobbs-Carlson block commit­ the press that he did not agree any president in U.S. history. r.don. In addition to reporters and with the view of the party to to climb three flights of stairs to have ample power as Chief Executive to modify your execu­ lively meeting at the Civic Cen­ tee. tive order to permit a public hearing, to provide us in advance * * * photographers from the Newark which James Kutcher belongs. attend AVC meetings regularly, NEW LEADERS NEEDED ter in Detroit on Aug. 17, con- with a detailed presentation of all charges against our party, papers and the metropolitan New “ But,” he said, “ I do agree that the Chaplain said, adding “ I have centfhting her remarks on the HERE AND THERE: Newark In 1934 and 1935, the workers and to provide for the presentation of witnesses and all neces­ York press, the labor movement there is a great danger to dem­ never in my life met a person who learned that they could not preparations for World War III. had first rate picnic with a good sary evidence by the defense in the hearing. turnout last Sunday. W illiam was represented by Evvald Sand- ocratic rights involved in the w as more of an idealist than achieve their dream of industrial W illiam Yancey of Flint, the This is the least you can do, Mr. President, in the inter­ Bohannan, SWP New Jersey Con­ ner, CIO Regional Director in prosecution of individuals who Jimmy.” organization through leaders like party’s candidate for Secretary of New Jersey and National CIO est of upholding and protecting the civil rights you so often gressional candidate and yours hold such views. Regardless of Coleman Claherty and Frances refer to. Anything less w ill prove that the principles of fas­ State urged “ every Negro in represcntatice. Carl Holderman truly were the speakers. There politics,” he concluded, “ our state Dillon, imposed on the rubber and cism are gaining a foothold in the highest circles of the U. S. A.merica to divorce himself from was a delicious meal, swimming, and Peter Flynn, respectively CIO and I as its president w ill Support the auto workers by the AFL craft government. the Republican and Democratic President and Secretary-Treasur­ give fu ll support to James Kut­ moguls. They had to kick out I await your early reply. parties on the grounds of adul­ a ball game and a good collection. . . . We are getting ready to file er of the New Jersey State CIO. cher and to the rescinding of the these leaders and finally break Very truly yours, tery, cruelty and desertion” and Dobbs-Carlson our petitions in Utah and Colo­ In a- quiet but firm manner, Executive Order.” from the stranglehold of the AFL FARRELL DOBBS urged them to join the SWP. rado. We’re over the top in signa­ Jimmy told the story of his life, Holderman was fully supported Fund! bureaucracy, in order to make Socialist Workers Party Howard Lerner, candidate for tures in both states. his record in the army and gave by Sandner who said he was cer­ their great historic leap forward Governor was chairman of the meeting. Generous contributions . . . Order excellent 8x10 photos were made in the collection. of Dobbs and Carlson, 15 cents The following night Grace each, from national campaign spoke to a group of 25 active headquarters, 116 University PL, The Story of a Fighter for the Working Class militants in the Negro commun­ N.Y.C 3. ity. She pointed out • that “ the parents were immigrants who People’s Socialist League. Of the James Kutcher is a Purple munity, but as a revolutionary fu ll of it. It was supposed to was obviously guilty of the platform of the SWP on the came to this country seeking op­ various groupings in the Socialist Heart veteran. He was decorated socialist who stays with his peo­ keep up their morale. Most elo­ “ crime” of thinking it is possible Negro question is backed by its YOUNGSTOWN! after the lighting near San portunity in the “land of pro­ Party, Kutcher fe lt closest to the ple and does what he can to con­ quent of all were the advertise­ to build a better world. They followers of Leon Trotsky. The actions in the Hickman Case, the mise.” Not much was open to vince them of the necessity fo r a ments run by the big corporations started the punitive machinery MILITANT LABOR FORUM Pietro. Italy, where lie lost both Trotskyist program appealed to O’Day Short case and numerous them, however, and they had to basic change in government and as they piled up fabulous profits rolling, and on Aug. 13 the o ffi­ presents his legs. He is one of the few him as clear-headed, thoroughly other struggles of the colored make their home on 18th Avenue the economic system. out of the war. cial form was drawn up notifying people.” GRACE CARLSON survivors of the in the slum area of Newark. thought-out and realistic. When A t Fort Bragg, Kutcher was The postwar world did not the Trotskyists left the Norman the disabled veteran of his sched­ Michigan is proud of its sound SWP Vice-Presidential candidate famed Third Di­ assigned to the Ninth Division prove as bright for the wounded DIFFICULT DAYS Thomas party to organize the uled “ removal” from the job be­ truck decorated with campaign 8:00 p. m. vision which and later transferred to the Third. veteran as the capitalist propa­ Socialist Workers Party, Kutcher cause his thoughts don’t please signs and slogans. They report Wednesday, Sept. 8 suffered the Those difficult days still re­ After 17 months training in the gandists had painted it. “ It was the witch-hunters. heaviest casual­ main in Kutcher’s mind. He re­ went with them. that the street meeting in Pontiac 234 E. Federal Street When the war broke out and Infantry he was sent overseas, not easy to learn to walk with was heard in a half-mile area, ties of all Am­ calls the strikes waged by the landing in the province of A l­ artificial limbs,” the disabled A FIGHTER erican divisions International Union of Fur Work­ the draft law was passed, Kut­ cher like, all the other members giers, North Africa, in Novem­ soldier said. On top of this, his But Kutcher is a fighter. He in World War ers of which his father was a ber 1942. “ Often I didn’t think aged father was in bad health js a fighter -to the marrow of U. In one of member; and the unemployment of the Socialist Workers Party continued to oppose the butchery. I ’d come out of the war,” he said, and no longer able to woric. That his bones. This was one of the the firs t con­ that bit deeply into the family “ as the fighting was pretty heavy is the usual fate of a worker in qualities that brought him to tingents drafted budget. Jimmy and his brother Not as a conscientious objector, however, who seeks personal imj at times.” the capitalist system when he Socialism. He doesn’t like to be in Newark, he and sister lived in poverty like The fighting was heavy in grows old. Everything socialism pushed around. In 1936 he felt wrote Dick Clarke of St. Louis. saw active serv­ the other families in that neigh­ Michigan Leads N. Y. Sicily too and heavier still in had pointed out about the evils that his right to a decent living St. Louis gets many others by borhood. ice in the North Italy. In San Pietro after a year of capitalism and the lies of its had been violated by the decision going out after them. It is, how­ African, Sicilian Jimmy went to Monmouth In Militant Subs of narrow escapes from death, warmongers proved to be only I of the capitalist class to close ever, a sign of the times that and Italian cam­ Street Grade School, the Central For the first time Michigan he lay all day with one of his too true. down the factories, thus senten­ people are now looking up the paigns, spending four years and High School and the Essex Coun­ lias more M ilitant subscribers buddies under fire in a fox hole. But Kutcher made up his mind cing him to unemployment. He re­ Socialist Workers Party, by mail, ty Junior College. He passed his than any other state, nearly 50% eight months in the Army before By late afternoon, he could no to overcome his physical hand­ solved to fig h t for his rights by by phone and in person. Its pro­ grades without difficulty but more than New York state and his discharge in 1945. He is a longer endure the thirst. He left icap, no matter what the difficul­ taking up the cause of Socialism. gram as presented over the air frankly admits ho was not in­ 80% more than California. Credit member of the American Veter­ the fox hole to get a drink of ties, live a normal life like other Today he feels the same way has inspired many thousands. clined to sacrifice his free time about the violation of his right is due to Detroit and Flint ans Committee and the Disabled water. people, get a job to support his * * * American Veterans. for the* sake of an impressive to a job. A principle is involved branches of the Socialist Work­ It was then that he felt a parents and do all in his power to St. Paul is nearing its goal of This is the Newark veteran scholastic record. heavy blow that knocked his legs prevent a Third World War. here, the duty to defend civil ers Party, which have turned in who was served official notice by The depression was on when liberties and democratic rights nearly 800 new and renewal subs 100 new subs. “ The spirit of com­ out from under him. He lay on In 1946 the Veterans Adminis­ petition is really reaching a good the Veterans Administration last James Kutcher left school. That the ground half-stunned, not feel­ tration offered Kutcher a job as from attack, no matter where it in the last six weeks. week that he is slated for “ re­ was an event to make a person originates. That is why Kutcher They got the jump on most high,” wrote Phyllis, assistant ing much pain. The mortar shell a clerk in the department hand­ M ilitant agent. “ My team is away moval” within 30 days from his think and turn his attention to that had torn into his flesh and ling educational and rehabilitation is speaking up for his beliefs and other branches by launching sub job as a clerk because of the the big questions affecting every challenging the campaign of mobilizations almost immediately cut in the lead with 45. The Trail- bone killed his buddy in the fox work fo r disabled veterans. The bjazers have 36. There is no doubt way he thinks. one in the country. How could hole. salary was not high — only a witch-hunting and its violation of after the SWP convention. They sent sub-getter expeditions to in anyone’s mind that we will James Kutcher is a Socialist unemployment and hunger exist He called fo r help. An intern little more than $160 a month, but democratic rights through so- Pontiac and Saginaw and won a more than top the goal.” and proud of it. In 1936, five in the midst of plenty? arrived and looked him over. e nough to- enable him to get by called “ loyalty tests.” large reader list in those two * * * years before he was drafted, he The Newark Young Men’s “ They’ll cut o ff your legs,” the and help out his folks. The job became a convinced socialist. He Hebrew Association held forums proved interesting and Kutcher General Motors towns. Minneapolis sent 33 M ilitant intern calmly announced, “ and subs and three fo r Fourth Inter­ decided that it was his duty to in the winter where sueh ques­ send you back home.” performed his tasks efficiently. Our Generous Several other branches are still participate in the struggle to free tions were sometimes discussed. That v'as not enough fo r the occupied w ith gathering petitions national and asked fo r more sub The intern proved right. They G o ve rn m e n t cards. “ Subs are rolling in fast in America from the rule of Big Among the guest speakers were amputated his legs, gave him the Truman Administration, however. to put the party on the ballot. Business and help build a new Norman Thomas and Scott Near­ Combing through their files, “ The government did three New Y’ork City Local, nearly both Minneapolis and St. Paul,” Purple Heart and sent him back commented Barbara Bruce. world order, free from poverty, ing. What they had to say aroused to Newark. hunting for “disloyalty” cases, things for Jimmy Kutcher: It through with petition work, is fascism and war. Kutcher’s interest. the Washington desk generals ran gave him a pension. I t gave already mapping.a sub campaign * * * Nothing that Kutcher has seen Jimmy began reading Socialist POST-WAR WORLD across the fact that James K ut­ him two artificial legs. And that will surely give Michigan Salt Lake City subs keep climb­ or experienced since then has led literature. He recalls particularly During the war years, Kutcher cher, a clerk in the Newark of­ then it gave him his walking stiff competition. ing, thanks mainly to the de papers.” — Peter Flynn, State him to change his mind. some of the books of Upton Sin­ had read about the wondrous post­ fice of the Veterans Administra­ * * * Wolfs, who are also most active Secretary of the New Jersey Jimmy was born in .Newark the clair such as The Brass Check, war world that would be his after tion, believed in Socialism. That “ We are enclosing a sub fo r in getting petitions signed to put CIO at the Kutcher press con­ day after Christmas in 1912 and Oil and The Wet Parade. the firs t person to come to our the Socialist Workers Party on the victory. The magazines and was enough fo r these architects ference. has lived there all his life. His, In 1936 he joined the Young JAMES KUTCHER—1948 newspapers sent to the GI’s were of the postwar world. Kutcher office because of the radio talks,” the ballot in- Utah. Piifïi* Hi ree»

Subscription«: »1 per year; Bundle Order* (6 or more 50c fo r 6 m onths. F o re ig n : copies): 3b each in U .8 ., 4c 12 per p e a r; $1 fo? 6 m onth*. each In foreign countries. “ Entered as second class rm MILITANT Signed articles by contribu­ m a tte r M a r. 7, 1844 a t ths Published Weekly in the Interests of the Working People tors do not necessarily rep­ Post Office. at New York, THE M ILITANT PUBLISHING ASSOCIATION resent The M ilitant's policies. Election Fund Nears Half of Quota; N. Y.. under the act of Mar. 116 University PL, N. Y. 3. N. Y. (Phone: AL 4-9830) These are expressed in its 8, 1879." FARRELL DOBBS. Editor editorials. Vol. X II - No. 35 Monday, August 30, 1948 Tacoma Joins Hundred-Percenters In the past, America has known more than one stormy outburst of revolutionary or semi-revolutionary mass move­ This week the chief honors go to the West Coast branches ments. Every time they died out quickly, because America at for their collections on the $25,000 SWP Election Campaign arid every time entered a new phase of economic upswing and also because the movements themselves were characterized by crass Party Building Fund. by the letter going to all Militant empiricism and theoretical helplessness. These two conditions Tacoma went over the top to subscribers and to all who wrote belong to the past. . . American capitalism w ill enter an epoch join Allentown and Rochester in in' response to the radio broad­ of monstrous imperialism, of an uninterrupted growth of arma­ the One Hundred Percenters Club. casts asking fo r aid to the Dobbs- ments, of intervention in the affairs of the entire world, of Thanks to the impetus given by Carlson Fund. Join the Cam­ m ilitary conflicts and convulsions. . . These radical changes Farrell Dobbs’ fighting speeches permit us to predict with certainty that the inevitable and paigners fo r Socialism by sending during his visit, Seattle added relatively rapid, revolutionary transformation of the Amer­ your donation today to 116 U ni­ ican proletariat will no more be the former, easily extinguish- $450 to its total and leaped from versity Place, New York 3, N. Y. able “bonfire,” but the beginning of a veritable revolutionary a low place to seventh on the na­ conflagration. In America, Communism can face its great tional list. In addition, We re­ TROTSKY future with confidence. LENIN ceived a $2 contribution directly Leon Trotsky, “ Germany: The Key to the International from John McBride of Seattle. Dobbs Denounces Situation,” 1931.______Los Angeles launched its elec­ tion campaign with a successful Trotsky Memorial meeting on Strikebreaking August 20 where $619.54 was col­ lected fo r the fund. Of “Czar” Beck Congress of Labor We want to apologize to San SEATTLE, Oct. 20 — Farrell The capitalist press celebrated the anniver­ The ITU, the miners and the maritime Francisco-Oakland fo r omitting them from last week’s scoreboard Dobbs’ appearance in Seattle pro­ sary of the Tafl-H artley Law with scarcely workers have singly been flailing away at However, we haven’t received any voked screams of rage from concealed gloating and threats to labor that the law. The government and industrialists further funds from there for the Dave Beck, Washington Czar of further punitive actions were on the way. have thus been able to pick off one union at past, couple of weeks. the Teamsters and second in Last week’s contributions From the labor press there was only whining, a time and bring their full weight to bear to command to Daniel Tobin. querulous complaining and impotent rage. beat down the labor movement and pave the amounted to $1,771. This was n better showing by about $300 The headline over a front page In the one year of the law's existence, the way for its eventual destruction. than the week preceding. W ith e editorial of The Washington government, through Denham and the NLRB, Now at last the ITU, which has been forced little extra effort by the branches. Teamster, Beck’s personal organ has moved with lofty im partiality against into a life-and-death struggle to preserve its I he $25,000 Fund could be lifted says, “ Commies at it again! Far­ to the half-way mark on the next all sectors of the labor movement, dracking ¡rights and integrity, has seen the ineffective­ rell Dobbs in Seattle to Foment scoreboard. Here’s a challenge tc down hard and heavy on conservative craft ness of this kind of resistance and issued the Labor Trouble.” unions like the AFL International Typo­ cal! for a Congress of Labor of all unions to meet! Milwaukee sent in $125 to reach Full of bile, Beck takes fu ll graphical Workers, the CIO Maritime Work­ pool their resources in order to smash this 95 percent of its $400 goal and credit “for heading the move­ ers and the independent United Mine W ork­ iniquitous, tyrannical and union-destroying promises in addition to over­ ment which ousted the Dobbs and subscribe its quota. Minnesota ers. law. This is the most significant development the Dunns and started them on reports that the St. Paul and How shortsighted and stupid were those since John L. Lewis’ fight against the law at the tra il to the federal peniten­ trade union leaders who thought they could Minneapolis branches are start­ the last A F L convention and deserves the ing to visit friends and contacts tiary.” escape the punitive measures of the law by widest support from every union man and and expect to mail in another But Beck reveals wKat he fc signing the “yellow dog” affidavits. How woman. It would be particularly appropriate good chunk of money next week really frightened over when he criminally blind were those self-styled “ labor after Dobbs makes his appearance if local unions would begin passing resolu­ says that Dobbs is taking the statesmen” who, under cover of the law, pro­ tions in support of the ITU action and calling in the Twin Cities. The New York Youth Group lead in the fig h t against the ceeded to organize petty raiding operations upon their International officers to join with has raised 87 per cent of its strikebreaking jurisdictional raid­ on other unions and thus more firm ly binding the ITU in the sponsoring of an Emergency WORKERS FORUM pledge. The New York Local ex­ ing of the Boeing union which the shackles of the Taft-H artley Law on all Congress of Labor to plan united nation­ pects that the collections to be Beck falsely claims was decreed labor. wide action to smash the Taft-Hartley Law. party. Now he would undoubtedly to all. And this applies now as it made at their Trotsky Memorial meeting this week will add by the AFL. Recalls CP Role like to arouse the whole labor applied then, but have the Wein- The same afternoon Dobbs movement to the dangers of the stocks learned anything or w ill several more hundred dollars to In Smifh Act spoke over the radio and related reactionary Act. His party will they ever? Its fund. Editor: the entire strikebreaking record Reuther’s Call for New Party no doubt remind the labor world Sylvia Bleecker Toledo reports plans to con­ of Beck and Tobin from the Min­ I should like to make a few that an injury to one is an injury New York City tinue visits to M ilitant sub­ W ith the emergence of the Wallace party type of New Deal party. It is clear that what comments on the question" of scribers from whom they have neapolis struggle to the Boeing and its strong appeal to several m illion work­ Reuther has in mind is building the same working class solidarity in con­ already collected $5 and sold strike. He told how the Washihg- ton State A F L had condemned ing class and Negro voters, and the growing type of middle class capitalist party as Wal­ nection with the arrest of the several subs. The first doorbells CP leaders. of M ilitant subscribers rung by Beck, how unions and students disillusionment of labor’s ranks with the Are Workers Ready for Labor Party? lace has concocted, with leadership in the I worked actively with the the Cleveland comrades netted bad demanded Beck’s removal old-line parties, it has become increasingly hands of a clique of liberal politicians of the We are reprinting an exchange of correspondence on the additional dollars for the fund. from the Board of Regents at-the Civil Rights Defense Committee labor party issue, copies of which have been sent us, between difficult for the AFL and CIO bureaucracy type of “ Senators Aiken and Murray, Tobey at the time of the Minneapolis Frances collected $3 from the University of Washington and William N. Doty, member of Lodge No. 889 of the Brother­ to continue its policy of tying the labor Labor Case. Those were trying first 3 subscribers visited and how a revolt was stirring among and Wagner.” hood of Railroad Trainmen and A. P. Whitney, president of the days. We had to arouse the trade Sally gathered $1.15. the rank and file of the teams­ movement to the two-party system of capital­ The difference between his proposed party rail brotherhood. unions, fraternal organizations Collections should be spurred ters union against Beck. ist politics. and Wallace’s is simply this: Whereas W al­ Virginia, Minn. and generally liberal-minded June 9, 1948 Labor union members are more and more lace is in alliance with the Stalinists, the bodies to the danger inherent in turning a deaf ear toward exhortations to "get new policy will be firmly anti-Stalinist—but that infamous law. That task Mr. A. F. Whitney SCOREBOARD FOR ¿ 2 5 4 0 0 out and register” in order to vote for Demo­ firmly pro-American imperialist along the would, have been fa r simpler if it President B. of R. T. In re: A Real Labor Party Cleveland 13, Ohio cratic or Republican “ friends of labor.” Their lines of the Americans for Democratic Action weren’t for .the treacherous role indifference and even sullen resentment has and the New York Liberal Party. of the Stalinists. They blocked Dear Sir and Brother: SWP ELECTION FUND our way wherever they could. grown so pronounced that the CIO leaders The kind of party Reuther has in mind is I enclose herewith a clipping from the Duluth News- In spite of that, hundreds of have for months not had the courage to not the kind of party that class conscious Tribune May 30, 1948: “ Reuther to Sponsor Third Party A fter unions and fraternal organizations 1948 Elections.” Why wait until after election? openly endorse Truman. In contrast to all workers have been demanding. The M ilita n t that had little in common ideolo­ I am in favor of building a real Labor Party now and the previous electoral campaigns since 1932, has advocated the formation of a broad Labor gically with the Trotskyists, un­ w ill pledge at least one hundred dollars ($100) toward the ex­ they found it necessary to subject the labor Party, based on and responsible to the union derstood the dangerous precedent pense of same and to show, you exactly what I mean by a real movement to a drawn-out process of “ soften­ movement, and has pledged its support to in the Smith Act and helped Labor Party I enclose a booklet by Mr. George Clarke entitled morally and financially. ing up” and elaborate preparation before they such a party even though, at first, the program “Build a Labor Party Now.” I recall especially my visit to There are' 15 million organized workers and about an dare propose that the union members cast of this party is faulty in many respects from the Painters’ D istrict Council .No. equal amount of organized farmers and together with their their vote for the man who broke a number the point of view of class conscious socialists. 9 in New York City. Weinstock wives we should muster at least 50 million votes and thereby of major strikes and whose administration Because the very creation and existence of was Secretary-treasurer at the take control of the federal and state governments and leave secured innumerable injunctions against the such a party would enable the labor move­ time and also a member of the the forces of evil or as you say, “ the W all Street gangsters” completely out of the political picture. unions. ment to constantly check on its leaders, profit Political Bureau of the CP. The council members wanted to We must get rid of them before they strangle us to death Reuthcr’s recent declaration for a new party from its mistakes, learn from its experiences hear the representative of the like they did the German workers recently. represents a recognition of the untenability and select new leaders in tune with the CRDC. Weinstock made a dema­ I am, and remain of the present policy on the part of the most problems that call for solution. It is an gogic speech opposing it. He Yours fo r a real workers and farmers party, now. energetic and socially conscious section of the entirely different matter with a Peoples lost and the CRDC representative Wm. N. Doty did speak. The members of the Lodge No. 889 trade union bureaucracy. Front outfit, where actual power is vested copy w ith enclosure Reuther fears — and with good reason •— council were impressed by the in the hands of an uncontrolled clique of appeal. Weinstock recognized this to Sec. Lodge No. 889. that the attempt to keep the labor movement liberal politicians, responsible to no one but and went into a tirade against hogtied to the Democratic Party w ill not only themselves. the Trotskyists. Then he appealed General Offices Cleveland 13, Ohio prove increasingly difficult of accomplish­ to the Council’s patriotism ; to the M ilitants in the unions w ill profit from June 15, 1948 fact that the Soviet Union was ment but that the bureaucrats may suffer a Reuther’s declaration, and the heightened Mr. W illiam N. Doty the ally of the U.S. He said the loss of influence right among their own mem­ political discussion that it is sure to evoke Virginia, Minnesota defendants in the Minneapolis berships in the unions. throughout the labor movement, to press with trial deserved the conviction and Dear Sir and Brother: Unfortunately, Reuther’s declaration for redoubled energy for a break with capitalist should stay in jail. This time he This w ill acknowledge your letter of June 9, with which "a new political realignment,” printed in his politics and the creation of—not just any partly succeeded. The council was enclosed a booklet entitled “ Build a Labor Party Now” President’s Column of the August United kind of new party— but d genuine labor members left the question open by George Clarke, and a clipping from the Duluth News- Automobile Worker, is not a call for a Labor party, espousing a m ilitant program of class for further investigation, although Tribune, May 30, captioned “Reuther to Sponsor Third Party Activities of ‘M ilitant’ Readers and the Party, hut for the creation of a People’s Front action. some painters’ locals utilized their After 1948 Elections” by Max Hall. You are in favor of autonomy and contributed to the building a real Labor Party now and pledge at least $100 defense out of the local treas­ to take care of the expense of the same. Your idea of a real uries. Labor Party is that proposed in the booklet by George Clarke. SOCIALIST WORKERS PARTY Now the Smith Gag Act is be­ There is a great deal of current discussion and has been Case of Russian School Teachers ing used against Weinstock’s a great deal through many years on the subject of labor sponsoring its own political party. It is extremely doubtful ' AKRON —i So. H ow a rd St., 2nd f l. Mon. MBW a WK— 4?3 S p rin g fie ld A t * Phon« The U. S. government is trying to make B ige lo w 3-2574. R eading rwxm . O ftfh burial. Nor is the ink yet dry oh the in­ that workers could be brought into a single political party through Fri., 7 to 9 p. m.; Branch meet­ famous law which bars most jews in the ing every Thurs. 8 p.m. d a lly , 12^4 and' 7*10- &rtL the maximum of propaganda capital out of PITTSBURGH! suoh as is proposed by Clarke. We have been unable to solidify BALTIMORE—1121 E. Baltimore Bt., NEW YOtfK CITY (Bit.)— 1!« UttHWt- the workers in the fight against the Taft-Hartley Act. Some Phone W o lfe 1753J. D a lly 9 a.m . - 9 P.m .. Ity P I. Phone OR. 5-3149. the case of the three Russian school teach­ Displaced Persons camps of Germany from Tentative Schedule for of the labor union officials have already signed the anti­ O. Coover Sr.. MILITANT and FOURTH EAST SIDE—251 E. Houston St entering this country. Nor can anyone for­ GRACE CARLSON Visit INTERNATIONAL, on eale. lf it ft. • ... ers who are refusing to return to Russia. traitor and anti-communist oath in order to be in a better BOSTON—30 Stuart St.. Sat., 1-S p. m., H A B K E M — 103 W . 110 S t , 23 get that countless dissident foreign born FRIDAY, SEPT. 10 Tues., 7:30-9:30 p. m. Phone MO. 2-1866. Open dlecuwMon. The bourbons of the State Department are position than the officers of rival unions. T h u rs., 8 p. m. Radio Broadcast WLOA—6:00- BUFFALO—Mriitant Forum, 929 Main trade unionists are under warrant right now I doubt the advisability of attempting to organize the B R O N X — 1034 Prospect Ave., Uk 11, St., 2nd f l. Phone M Adlson 3990. E ve ry Phone I jI I . 9-0101. donning the cloak of beneficent justice and for deportation. 6:30 p. m. workers into a political party directed by the Socialists. People afternoon except Sun. Meeting—“ Ivory’s Garden B R O O K LY N —635 F u lto n St. Pftofle sternly proclaiming that the United States The State Department propaganda would with Socialist tendencies are like those in labor unions, having CHICAGO—777 W. Adame (comer Hal- ST. 3-7433. 5434 2nd Ave., 8 p. Ml. varying ideas as how to reach a designated goal. There has sted). Phone D E A rb o rn 4767, D a ily except C H E L S E A — 130 W . 23rd St. Phone always stands for the right of political asyl­ be considered a huge joke both in this coun­ Sun., 11 a. m.-5 p. m. Library, book­ CH. 2-9434. SATURDAY, SEPT. 11 always been a wide divergence between the Socialist Party and store. OAKLAND (Cal.)—Write P. Ö. Bo* um in the United States. try and abroad were it not for the fact that Radio Interview WLOA—9:15- the Socialist Labor Party and, too, there has always been di­ CLEVELAND—Militant Forum, Sun., 1351, O aklatid 4; Stalinist tyranny and barbaric conduct 9:30 a. m. vergent ideas as between the leaders in those two political 8:30 p. m., Peck's Hall, 1440 E. 82nd St. PHILADELPHIA — 1303-05 W. Gttraid This is a barefaced fraud. The United (off Wado Park Ave.). Ave., 2nd ft. Phone Steve neon 4-585)0, States today, under the ¡rule of the monop­ again and again enables the imperialists SUNDAY, SEPT. 12 parties. D E T R O IT — 6108 Llnw ood Ave. rh on e Open d a ily. F o r tom, B^rl.', 8 p. m i TY 7-6267. M on. through S at.. 12-5 p. m. to hide their own misdeeds and crimes Meeting: Militant Labor Forum I f it were possible to have the 15 million workers now P IT T S B U R G H — 1416 F ift h Ave., 9nd fT. olists, stands for political asylum for only 1418 F ifth Ave., 3:30 p. m. affiliated in labor unions to forget their political prejudices FLINT—Socialist Workers Party Hall. Sunday evening discussions.: on.^''W e behind a mantle of phony indignation 215 B. N in th Street. Phono: 2-2490. SWP Election Program” . Every tfeeii, one class of political refugees — capitalists, For additional information on and think and act in a single unit, it would be possible with Open House Saturday evenings. 7:30 P. M. fascists, unemployed monarchs and dispos­ against the atrocities of the Kremlin. GRACE CARLSON’s visit call the members of their families to control the national and IX)s ANGEI.ES—M ilitant Publ. Assn., SAN DIEGO (Cal.) — For Information state elections. I am sure you w ill recognize that that is im­ Room 201, 124 W . 6th St. phone V A ndyke w rite P. 0 . -B o x 857. sessed royalty. It is willing and anxious to Class conscious workers w ill take due note CO-6060. 8061. possible. SAN rE D R O —M ilita n t. 1008 S. P a c ific SAN FRANCISCO—<1169, FtlUxKH* AVa,, provide haven to the reactionary capitalist of the cynical gangster behavior of the 4th ft. Phone F l. 6-0410. D a lly except Until such time as the workers and the farmers are Room 214. Sun., 12-4:30 p'. m . opponents of Stalinist totalitarianism, as Kremlin bureaucracy -as again displayed in thoroughly educated as to their economic and political possi­ WATTS—Militant. 1720 E. 97th St. ■ SEATTLE—Mayhard Bldg,, IstA V *., CHICAGO! LYNN, (Mass.)—44 Central So.. Rm. South & W ashington, Phone Mafln ¿£7$. pairt of its cold war against Russia. But it the case of the three Russian school teach­ bilities, I believe it advisable to work somewhere within the Mön. through“ Sat., 12-^T pT m; s »ranch A Workers Candidate for 11. Sat. 1-5 p. m . Discussion. TtTee.. has shut its doors tight against all true pro­ ers. They will take heart from the growing framework of the two major political parties in attempting ?:30 p. m. • nieeftHsr. JP B lri 8 p . *w.- L ib r a r y , b o & o to fo . President of the U. S. A. MILWAUKEE—Militant Bookshop. 908 ST. LApIS—1023 N> «Grand Btvd.* ttm. to secure the nomination and election of public servants who 312. Vbrumyftiurs.. 7-M-10 p, HT gressives, against all working class fighters instability and unpopularity of the Stalin S. 5th St. Mon. through Frl., 7:30-9:30 FARRELL DOBBS w ill serve in the interest of all of the people. The great d if­ p. m. Phono BTtoadway 9645. ST: DAUL—S4e Oedar 8t» Phon* Out- and genuine battlers for the advancement regime revealed in this whole sorry episode. field 1137. Open daily. Bookstore. speaks fo r ficulty which we have and do now face in using the rig h t of MINNEAPOLIS—10 So. 4th St. Phone TACOMA (Wash.)—Write P. O. Boa and betterment of humanity. Everyone re­ They w ill at the same time reject with scorn suffrage is that only a m inority of the workers and farmers M ain 7781. D a ily except Sun., 10 A. m .- 1079. Meeting:. Wed.. 8 p.,m .. Odd Felton “A WORKERS AND FARMERS 6 p. m. Library, bookstore. Hall, 6th & Fawcett. members how the greatest of all fighters the spu'rious claims of the capitalist rulers GOVERNMENT” take the trouble to register and go to the polls to vote. NEW BRITAIN, (Conn.)—M ilitant Dis­ TOLEDO — Weekly meeting« every in Washington as the protectors of civil Fraternally yours, cussion Group every F ri. 7 :30 p.m. M ili­ Friday night at 7:30, KappS H ill, ’4$ against Stalinism, Leon Trotsky, was re­ 8:00 p. m. A. F. Whitney, President tant Labor Club. 165 Main St. (next to S um m it, Hoorn 1, to p fl. fused asylum and permission was denied to liberties and the guardians of political Wednesday, Sept. 8 Strand Theatre). YO UNG STO W N — 234 E . F e d e r« 8 t. Copy to: N E W H A V E N — L a b o r School. 855 Phone 3-1355. W ed., F r l „ Sat’., 1‘iSO to even bring his dead body into the U. S. for asylum. 777 W. Adams St., Chicago, III. Mr. A. N. Swain, Sec., No. 889. Grand Ave., 3rd fl., Tues. 8-10:30 p. in. 4 p. m. Campaigning in Michigan t h e MILITANT By Grace Carlson The most interesting parts of any tour are the combined to make this Pontiac “ first” a highly VOLUME X II MONDAY, AUGUST 30, 1948 NUMBER 35 "firsts.” And we’ve had a lot of “ firsts” on this successful venture. campaign tour—starting out with the “first” On the following night, the “first” Trotskyist Socialist Workers Party meet­ meeting was held in Saginaw, a General Motors ings in Salt Lake City, Denver town north of Flint. The interest cards signed and Boulder; going on to the and the literature sold marked this Saginaw “ first” local SWP broadcast in meeting as a successful “ first” also. A Saginaw OneYear of Taft-Hartley A d ­ Indiana over Hammond’s sta­ News reporter and a photographer had their tion WJOB, and continuing “ first” experience in covering an SWP meeting— here in Michigan with a record and it was a pretty educational experience all number of “firsts.” around. My appearance before the Early Saturday morning, Aug. 21, we had a membership of the motor build­ very unusual “firat”—a radio interview over Sta­ its Effect on Trade Unions ing unit of Ford Local 600, tion WMRP at Flint’s Municipal Market. Genora UAW-CIO in Detroit on Aug. Dollinger, F lin t Organizer and SWP candidate By C. Thomas 15 was my “first” union meeting on this tour. for U. S. Senator had made the ararngements for In fact, it was the “ first” time that an SWP the interview beforehand. The interviewer asked The first "anniversary” of the infamous Taft-Hartley Law- Candidate had ever appeared before the mem­ many quest'ons about the party program and i provided the capitalist press with the occasion for editorial bership of the world’s largest union. The friendly was very gratifying to be able to tell this rad it sermons directed toward refuting the contention that the Act reception and the generous applause were audience of Michigan workers and farmers rha. •vas designed to undermine, features of the meeting which w ill not quickly- we propose taking control away from Wall Stree but a one-day holiday to vote in forgotten. and building a Workers and Farmers Government weaken and emasculate the trade unions of this country. another set of hard-bitten capi­ Pontiac, an auto center about 30 miles from in the United States. talist politicians. Detroit, was the scene of a few other “ firsts.” Wo Of course we had .fine, inspiring camp-rig: The editorials sneered at labor’s A t every stage the labor lead­ had the “ first” SWP meeting in Pontiac and the meetings in established party center.- here i characterization of the Act as a ers hewed to the same pattern of “ first” open-air meeting on this tour. The numbers Michigan. The “ firsts” are especially interesting slave labor law. They scorned the blustering defiance, retreat and of Pontiac workers who stayed fo r the whole though, because they mean that the Socialis prediction that it was intended as capitulation. After its formal meeting, their very obvious enthusiasm, the in­ Workers Party is on the march in this 1948 a union-busting measure. As evi­ adoption the Act could have been terest in The Militant and other party literature campaign! dence they offered the fact that rendered ineffective if the unions the unions were still in existence. jointly refused* to sign the a ffi­ Further, that wage concessions davits of compliance — the so- had been gained without recourse called anti-communist' affidavits. Randolph’s Betrayal to widespread strike action. In Absolutely no attempt was made essence, the editorial sermons to organize such united resist­ By F. Forest preached that one year of the ance. There was the usual blus­ Taft-Hartley Law had demonstra­ izntion to which they would have to submit, an- tering followed by individual de­ On Aug. 18 a blow was dealt the movement ted that it was a good thing for against m ilitary Jimerow. This blow was del ver- which would bo democratically controlled by h fections. Then the AFL conven­ all concerned. ed not by the bigoted proponents of Jimerow. tank and file. It s true that at first they withstooc tion went on record to comply hut by the founders of the the attack both from the government and the to The question arises: Has labor followed by the CIO convention civil disobedience movement, A. Negro leaders. When C. B. Powell, editor of th exaggerated the intent of the Act which left it to the discretion of Phillip Randolph and Grant Amsterdam News, counseled the Negro to accep or is the Taft-Hartley gang pro­ its affiliated organizations. When Reynolds, who unceremoniously “ his full responsibilities as a citizen in the dafens- ceeding according to schedule in the UAW convention, under the announced that they were can­ of his country,” and when W. R. Hearst, dr., o carrying forward their union- •initiative of Reuther, came out | celling their civil disobedience the New York Journal American, Robert S. Shane busting program. The answer to for compliance, this sector of the campaign against Jimerow in of the New York Daily News, Mayor William this question can be found in an resistance front caved in. Many the armed forces. Messrs. Randolph and Reynolds O’Dwyer and Senator Irving M. Ives all rushec examination of the origin of the of the smaller unions scurried for Candidates of the Socialist Workers Party in San Francisco, left to rig h t: Harry Press, can­ offered no greater pretext fo r their shameful to praise Powell’s statement, Randolph replied Act and its subsequent effect on cover and those Stalinist-control- didate for Assemblyman, 20th A.D.; Frank Barbaria, candidate for Congress from the 4th Congres­ abandonment of.the movement they had launched to Powell as follows on Aug. 2: “ For more than labor-management relations. led unions which held out became sional district; Bob Chester, candidate for Assemblyman, 22nd A.D. than the “ President’s announced plan to end the target fo r raids by other 25 years Negro leaders like yourself, white OMNIBUS MEASURE segregation in the armed forces.” l berals and trade-unionists have waged a cam­ unions and employer-government The Taft-Hartley Act was ad­ Just a few weeks ago the same Randolph made paign to wipe out military Jimcrow. Today, at assault. mittedly inspired by the most the following unequivocal characterization of the in the past, we are faced w ith promises which The same cowardly policy was rabid union-hating employers James P . Cannon Speaks very same executive order: “ A misleading move, continually go unkept. . .” Then he came to the attempted to evade, temporarily, group in the country, the National made for political purposes and deliberately cal­ crux of the matter: “ . . . the civil disobedience the restrictive provisions of the culated to obscure the issue of segregation.” movement springs not from my call but from the Association of Manufacturers. It Act. Although the Act was adop­ Randolph now has the temerity to issue a state­ deep humiliation and resentment that Negro anc is an omnibus measure combining ted on June 23, 1947 it was not ment which declares: “ Through Sen. J. Howard Me white youth feel at being forced to serve in i most of the separate anti-union to go into effect until August 22. At California Rallies devices advocated fo r years by Grath, chief spokesman for the President, we segregated army.” The labor leaders, including the the ,NAM and other such outfits. l.OS ANGELES, Aug. 20— “ Deal with the social reality and tell the truth about it. That have been given assurance that segregation in What has happened between August 2 anc Stalinists, rushed to take advan­ armed services is unequivocally (!) banned under At one stroke it nullified progres­ tage of this “ escape” period to is the burning need of the day and the essence o f Trotskyism today," James P. Cannon, na­ August 18 to turn Mr. Randolph from a champior sive labor legislation won only the executive order of July 26.” of the Negro masses to their betrayer? gef in under the wire and thus tional secretary of the Socialist Workers Party, told an audience of 200 here tonight. So “ un«quivocally” was segregation in the after years of struggle. earn a year’s grace. Anything to Cannon addressed the Trotsky Randolph emphasized, when he first launched An even cursory examination The social reality today, Can­ armed services banned that the Chief of Staff, postpone the inevitable show­ memorial meeting launching Those who have become cynical the movement, that he looked fo r support not of Mi provisions is enough to es­ down. non continued, is the world crisis betray a lack of understanding General Bradley, could declare: “ The Arm y is not the local campaign for Farrell from the top Negro leaders, but from the “ so- tablish the intent of the Act to of capitalism. Wars, revolutions, and a lack of confidence in the out to make a ay social reforms. . . The Arm y w ill While the union leaders were Dobbs fo r President, Grace Carl­ put men of different races in different companies. called average man on the street.” But it is a destroy the independence of the and economic crises are the price human race, he said. “ We believe following an every-man-for-him- son for Vice-President and Myra I t w ill change that policy when the nation as a fact that he failed to organize this "so-called unions and reestablish the humil­ humanity pays for the continua­ the people of the world aspire to self policy, the Taft-Hartley gang Tanner Weiss fo r Congress from whole changes it.” average man on the street” and failed to convert iating worker-employer relation­ tion of the outlived social system. a better fate than starving in were relentlessly pursuing their the 19th district on the Socialist Now Randolph and Reynolds are well aware his hand-picked Committee into an organization ship under which the unrestricted “ What we can and must do is peace and dying in war.” The that would be democratically controlled by thr union-busting goal. Strategic Workers Party ticket. of this declaration of Jimerow policy of General right to hire and fire, dispense unions were being picked o ff one understand and take an active so-called civilized man of today rank and file. Instead, he kept championing in­ Comrade Cannon spoka on Bradley. They have, furthermore, their own favors or administer punishment, at a time in an effort to establish part in the struggle to guarantee is unconscious of the system which dividual action. ‘ The Presidential Campaign — analysis of the President’s executive order as a is exercised without restraint by broad precedents that could later a good outcome.” dominates him. Hence he is the Issues, the Parties, the Men.” sham. How, then, can they explain their sudden This is not the first time Randolph refused to the boss. It is this relationship of be applied to the rest of the labor “ This is an election issue of subordinated and subjugated to it. He contrasted the lies of the faith in the “ assurances” of Senator J. Howard submit to the control of the rank and file. It is master and slave inherent in the movement. more importance to workers,” he The next task is to understand McGrath? They do not even try to. ro t the first time that he has le ft the Negro Act. that fully justifies its charac­ capitalist parties and their can­ said, “ than those discussed by the and free ourselves from this sub­ From the beginning, when Messrs. Randolph masses in the lurch. In 1941 he betrayed the terization as a slave-labor law. THREE UNIONS didates with the issues as dealt so-called labor leaders who sec jugation.” and Reynolds first announced their defiant stand Mareh-On-Washington movement which he him­ But those who framed and enac­ The CIO National Maritime with by the Socialist Workers no further than which capitalist Collected for the election cam­ against a Jimerow Army with their statement self had organized. Just when it enlisted tens of ted the law, and those assigned Union, the AFL International Party in this campaign. politician w ill enact the least re­ paign fund at the meeting was that they preferred going to jail to giving sup­ thousands of Negroes in its fight against dis­ to administer it, were shrewd Typographical Union and the In­ “ The social lie began w ith the actionary labor laws, or will build $619.54. The audience, a cross- port to “Herr Jimerow,” the Militant warned that crimination in employment, Mr. Randolph, also enough to know that an attempt dependent United Mine Workers beginning of class society, in more chicken-coops for veterans section of the Los Angeles work­ the Committee Against Jimerow in Military without consulting the rank and file, called off to impose its provisions at once had dared defy the Act. The Na­ order to cover up and justify the and their families." ing class, had a good representa­ Service and Training would mean little unless on his own the scheduled march. For his capitula­ would lead to civil war. The or- tional. Labor Relations Board and exploitation of one class by ano­ Dismissing Truman and Dew- tion from minority groups in­ it became a powerful mass organizaion demo­ tion to President Roosevelt at that time, at least, gahized labor movement was too its General Counsel, Denham, ther,” he pointed out. But this ev, Comrade Cannon demonstrated cluding Mexican, Filipino, Negro, cratically controlled. We pointed out that while he was granted the concession of the FEPC. Nov strong and too confident of its spearheading the anti-labor drive epoch is the “ epoch of the lie. tiiat Wallace and Norman Thomas Japanese, Indian and Jewish their defiant stand did Randolph and Reynolds he has given up the struggle against Jimcrow in strength to tolerate such an at­ are seeking to make an example Lying is the every day business support American capitalism. workers. credit, defiant protest and even going to jail on the armed forces in return fo r a piece of paper! tempt. The bosses had tried the cf these unions. Court action has of the capitalist parties,” he said, “ We are not friendly critics of Comrade Steve Roberts, chair­ the part of individuals was not the solution. We Neither Negro nor white labor will forget this method of head-on assault in 1946 been brought against all three. “ but election time is the rush sea­ capitalism, but irreconcilable op­ man, introduced Myra Tanner nevertheless supported the progressive fig h t the latest betrayal of Randolph. The important and were soundly whipped. Unfortunately, the leaders of son.” They lie when they promise ponents,” he declared. “ The fun­ Weiss, candidate of the party for movement was undertaking and defended it thing, however, is that just as the movement did these unions have been inclined peace and prosperity, when they damental evil in the world today Congress from the 19th district, against its “Uncle Tom” detractors. We wrote: not spring from Mr. Randolph’s call, "but from PIECE-MEAL STRATEGY toward a naive faith in the im­ talk about solving the housing is not this or that fault of capital­ who discussed the party’s “ auda­ “ The power of the protest is in the mass action the deep humiliation and resentment that the Therefore, the Taft-Hartley partiality of the U.S. Supreme crisis, when they talk about doing ism, but capitalism itself, and it cious move in entering the nation­ and mass activity which it unlooses. It is Negro and white youth feel," so this movement gang devised the strategy of put­ Court. something about the high cost of must be fundamentally done away al and local election campaign.” precisely this fear of mass action which has will not disappear with the betrayal of its once- ting over the Act piece-meal. The The labor commentator for the living, when they promise to with.” She pointed out that California’s characterized the Negro leaders, as it has charac­ defiant leader. The movement w ill merely throw labor leaders aided and abetted N.Y. Journal of Commerce takes maintain the civil rights minority restrictions w ill keep the SWP KNOWLEDGE AND FREEDOM terized the labor leaders.” off the shackles of Gandhism and expand into a this strategy. Their opposition a more realistic view when he groups in this country are de­ presidential and vice-presidential Randolph and Reynolds must now be included genuine mass organization, democratically con­ was confined to the ground staked says, “unless the political winds prived of. The Socialist Workers Party candidates off the ballot in this among the leaders who fear mass action, even trolled by the rank and file. For the masses are out by the Taft-Hartley gang. shift far more to the left than “ The only time they tell the advocates a Workers and Farmers slate, and make a write-in vote as the government fears it. From the first Ran­ learning that the only way to wipe out Jimcrow On the day following the enact­ most observers expect them to, truth, and I must admit they do Government, he continued, not a for them necessary. In the 19th dolph and Reynolds refused to form an organ­ is through mass action. ment of the Law, June 24, 1947, the act probably is going to once in a while,” he said, “ is Stalinist police state and not a district, however, the Los Angeles the reactionary N.Y. Daily News emerge in the long run in even when they talk about each other.” “care-taker government fo r Local has decided on the ambi­ called on the labor leaders to: stronger form than it is today.” “The Socialist Workers Party, capitalism, as in Britain. We tious undertaking of getting its “Take It Like Sports.” The “pro­ Like Mr. Dooley, the Journal of the only genuine socialist party, want a Workers and Fanners candidate on the ballot by a drive “Unity” at Last! per procedure.” advised The News, Commerce is convinced that “the is the only one that can tell the Government to overthrow capit­ for 3,000 signatures on nominat­ was to abandon all talk of a gen­ Supreme Court follows the elec­ truth because we have no inter­ alism and replace it with social­ ing petitions. By Joseph Keller eral strike and “to work on Con­ tion returns.” ests in the status quo to defend.” ism.” The campaign starts Aug. 30 We have just read the news that leading repre­ I t seems the British labor leaders were balk­ gress to revise the law.” A N.Y. and all M ilitant readers and sentatives of the American unions have recently ing. The British workers consider Hoffman’s pro­ Times editorial, the same day, SWP Presidential Tour friends who wish to sign the peti­ ¡met and approved “a common proposal. . . in the posal as nothing but a Marshall Plan export of expressed the “ hope” that the tions and help in the drive are name of united American labor.” But don’t cheer American-style speed-up. The U. S. union bosses labor leaders would cooperate with urged to contact the SWP by y e t were over there to “ put on the heat.” They made the law while exercising their calling Vandike 8061 or writing This announcement appears in the AFL Inter­ “off-the-record” statements in the British capital­ “ right to seek the repeal of this or visiting Room 201, 124 West national Ladies’ Garment Workers’ Union paper, ist press that “ American labor” is demanding legislation through the election My Visit in Seattle 6th street, Los Angeles 14.

Justice, of August 15, in an article by Jay Love- “action” from the English workers; that British of new members of. Congress.” * * * stone, renegade from communism and chore-boy union leaders are “ too slow and tim id” in im­ The National Association of By Farrell Dobbs for David Dubinsky. plementing “ European recovery” ; that “all bar­ Manufacturers, sparkplug of the SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 22 The “common proposal” he speaks of has noth­ riers to increased production” must be broken; drive to smash the unions, pre­ SEATTLE, Aug. 21 — 1 I talked to a former Minneapo­ again aroused by our presidential Comrade Cannon repeated ing to do with joint labor action in America to and, above all, that the “ restrictive practices” of scribed the following remedy: “ If arrived here by plane just after lis coaltruck driver after a meet­ campaign. his address on the Presidential ing where I had described the Among those at the University fight the Taft-Hartley Act, halt the current,juris­ the British unions — that is, the union rules they (union leaders) deem any sunrise. Campaign at a meeting of 120 dictional civil war in the unions or build a Labor safeguarding working conditions — must be abol­ Workers and Farmers Govern­ of Washington meeting was a provision of this bill to be un­ As 1 saw the beautiful modern people marking the eighth an­ Party. ished. constitutional, it is their privil­ ment. He reminded me that he young science student. He is shift­ city of Seattle rising out of a had been present when I made my niversary of the death of Leon His “united American labor” refers to the dele­ ege — their obligation — to con­ ing his studies toward history and How little the British workers welcome this wilderness of timberland, moun­ firs t speech at a union meeting. politics because he believes titanic Trotsky. The meet'ng also opened gation of U. S. union big-shots sent over to West­ Marshall Plan “ aid” — the speed-up demanded test it in the courts. But only the ern Europe and England as unofficial agents of tain ranges and large bodies of It was a mass rally at the old social upheavals are coming soon. the SWP national election cam­ by the Dubinskys, Lovestones, Reuthers, etc. — courts should be used for this water, I thought, “What a symbol Shubert Theater in Minneapolis in He wants to be prepared. paign here and initiated the peti­ the U. S. State Department to help sell the im­ is shown by the strike last week of 17,000 Austin purpose.” perialist Marshall Plan. of man’s great future under So­ 1934. Most of my time was spent tion drive to get the local candi­ auto workers in Birmingham, England, against “Breakfast in Rome — afternoon tea in London” The course of action prescribed cialism!” “ You have learned a lot since talking to union militants. They dates on the ballot. what they called “ American mass production keeps the U. S. delegation at a “driving pace” by the avowed advocates of the “What a firm guarantee that then,” he said. “ We need your honor the Socialist Workers Party The Party’s candidate fo r As­ methods” — the attempt of the company to get \yxites Lovestone. These harassed U. S. union of­ Taft-Hartley Act was followed, man will establish a socialist so­ help here and I ’m glad you came.” for our proud record in defending semblyman from the 22nd As­ a gear-box cutter to finish 360 boxes instead of ficials — including Dubinsky of the AFL, George almost to the letter, by the labor ciety so he can have a future!” I A Boeing striker telephoned the workers’ democracy against dic­ sembly District in San Francisco, 280 a day. Harrison of the Railway Labor Clerks, Victor leaders. Abandoned were the concluded, after I had spent a party headquarters a few min­ tators like Dave Beck. Bob Chester, Organizer of San Reuther of the CIO auto workers, David MacDon­ Lovestone glowingly reports that in putting thundering threats of independ­ busy week talking to the work­ utes after I spoke over the radio. Francisco-Bay Area Local, was LEFT WING GROWING ald and Elmer Cope of the CIO Steelworkers, and the heat on the British union officials, “ Averill ent mass action made prior to ers. We had worked together in Min­ introduced and spoke of the a spokesman of the United Mine Workers — hard­ Harriman, chief of the OEEC, pointed out that the adoption of the law. Instead, The Seattle Branch of the So­ neapolis 20 years ago. He came From my talks with these work­ heritage of Leon Trotsky. The ly had time to “unpack” before they went into it was the tradition of international labor to go they threatened political reprisals cialist Workers Party did an ex­ down to our social that evening. ers, I became convinced that there candidates for Congressman from “caucus” and “hammered out an agreement on across national lines.” against the politicians in Wash­ cellent job in preparing for my We had a fine talk and he made is a tremendous potential here for the 4th Congressional District of fundamental policy.” American labor, like the General Motors work­ ington, even vaguely at the pos­ visit, and their publicity work a $20 contribution to the cam­ the building of a powerful left California, Frank Barbaria, and wing movement. Unity at last! But on how to force the British ers who have been striking against speed-up, will sible organization of a “ third” quickly bore fruit. paign fund. for Assemblyman from the 20th First to respond were workers Equally important is the fact Trade Union Congress executives, then in ses­ certainly be delighted to learn that American political party — some time in Another Boeing striker came Assembly District of San Fran­ who have migrated to Seattle that the Stalinist misleaders are sion, to agree to “the proposal made by Paul G. union officials like Walter Reuther’s brother Vic­ the not-too-immediate future. with his two sons to meet the cisco, Harry Press, spoke of the from Minnesota. Many among SWP presidential candidate and rapidly losing ground just when Hoffman, Economic Cooperation Administrator, tor are trying to get workers in other countries Spokesmen for the AFL de­ need fo r genuine working class them were once officers of local get a copy of my Seattle radio | a new current of militancy is ed- for setting up consultative Anglo-American Com­ to accept the speed-up “ in the name of united clared they would call a one-day representation in the government. unions, job stewards, militant speech. i dying through the local labor mittees to stimulate and lift production in Brit­ American labor” and “international labor solidar­ holiday, come next election day, fighters in the great Minnesota The speeches broadcast from movement. The chairman of the meeting, ain.” ity.” so the workers could vote out of strike struggles of 1934 and later. our national convention have also We helped discredit the CP Comrade Della, in welcoming office those who enacted the law. They remembered me from left their mark here. hacks further when we defeated Comrade Cannon to the speaker’s Not a one-day general strike pre­ DAY OF MOURNING — Over 100 clergymen U. S. POPULATION — The U. S. Census those days and came to talk to A free-lance writer who was their attempt to disrupt our meet­ stand, reminded the audience that ceding or immediately following issued a statement through the National Council me about their problems in fight­ passing through the city came to ing at the Yesler Child Care Cen­ the speaker was no stranger to Bureau estimated that the nation’s population, (he adoption of the Act to demon­ Against Conscription calling for a “day of mourn­ ing both the employers and Dave a meeting. He had once been a ter. San Francisco. He had in 1937- aided by a 41% increase on the Pacific coast, strate labor’s determination to 38 been the editor of the first ing” on the Sunday before the beginning of the Beck, local czar of the Teamsters sympathizer of the SWP, but he Our Seattle comrades have peacetime draft as the start of a campaign for jumped about 9% between 1940 and 1947. I t now' defend its existence — that Union. Native Seattle workers dropped away during the 1939-40 every right to be confident of the Trotskyist newspaper on the early repeal ci the conscription measure. totals approximately 143,414,000. wouldn’t be at all “sporting” — came with them. faction fight. His interest is future. Pacific Coast.