Colored National League
Open Letter to President McKinley by Colored People of Massachusetts
"Open Letter to President McKinley by Colored People of Massachusetts" is a historical document produced in the late 19th century, specifically addressing systemic racism and civil rights injustices faced by African Americans. This open letter serves as a formal appeal to President William McKinley, articulating the demands of the colored citizens of Massachusetts for equal treatment and protection under the law, emphasizing their rights as American citizens rather than as supplicants. The content of the letter reflects deep frustrations and grievances regarding the brutal conditions and rampant violence against African Americans, particularly in the Southern states, where civil rights were routinely violated. It highlights several incidents of racial violence and the government's inaction, urging President McKinley to recognize and address these pressing issues. The authors express a yearning for acknowledgment and justice, appealing to the President's moral responsibility to protect all citizens, and questioning the perceived selective attention given to foreign affairs over domestic civil rights tragedies. The letter ultimately serves not only as a demand for immediate action but also as a historical testament to the struggles for civil rights and the quest for dignity and recognition in the face of enduring racism.