Killing A Film
|
Source: Chicago Defender, editorial, 22 May 1915, pg. 8.
|
AFTER FOUR YEARS—MAYBE—"The Birth of a Nation" may have a Chicago appearance. Mayor Thompson has spoken and voiced the sentiments of every law-abiding and peace-loving citizen in this big city. "Whatever power there is in the mayor's office," he said, "will be used to stop this film or any other films that reflect on any race or nationality. I won't grant my permission for the production of a picture just to give a theatrical man a chance to get $2 a seat. Race riots were caused by this picture in the East. We want nothing of the sort in Chicago." One need not read between the lines to find the meaning in this statement. Mayor Thompson's stand in this matter but intensifies the good feeling the race already has for him. In every instance he has shown himself to be a man devoid of prejudice and appreciative of the efforts we made in his behalf. Chicago is full of just such men save they have not, as has he, the courage of their convictions. But let one prominent and influential man come out for a cause that is right and just and hundreds will quickly follow in his footsteps. A leader is all that is required, and in Mayor Thomspon the race has a friend who will guard out interests as well as he will guard the interests of any other race. Let us be good citizens and deserve the confidence and trust the good people of Chicago have in us.
[End of news article]
|
|
Page compiled: 18 February 2000
|
|
|
