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VIOLENCE IS NOT THE WAY • • . Atlanta Branch NAACP The events occurring in our city a few nights ago when a few people interfered with an officer of the law in the routine execution of his duty has caused some alarm and deep concern on our part as citizens in this community who take seriously our responsibility as citizens. No one can honestly deny the facts of history -- facts which show that Negro people have been and still are victims of injustices and wrongs. We are just as determined as any to work continuously and with vigor to eliminate any and all injustice in this city. We do not believe , however , that one wrong can be made right by committing another wrong. violence no The way of matter by whom perpetuated is wrong and it creates more problems tha n it solves. i nnocent children. by any people. Worst of all , violence a lways victimi z e s the This course i s not wise and should not be follow ed There i s a w ay to protes t. in our Constitution. The frame w ork i s set out All people should w o rk t o s ee: 1. That it is preserved and honor ed. 2. That all who live under it, live~ it. V i olence or inciting t o riot does neither of these. As citizens who live he re and who are determined t o make Atlanta a more just city we pledge our support of law and o rder. We call for wisdom and calmness on the part of all • • • the police and the people alike. Level heads , pure hearts when joined in a common purposeD remove fear and release untapped energies for good. Atlant~D t hough imperfect, is too good to �NAACP Statement Page 2 be destroyed by rashness no matter from what quarter. Those who are engaged in the struggle for human injustice anywhere in this nation must have friends. No man, no nation, no group of people can go it alone •. Cooperation is the way to achieve righteous goals. �