72

OverviewTranscribeVersionsHelp

Facsimile

Transcription

Status: Complete

224 LIFE AND TIMES OF FREDERICK DOUGLASS

proof of this, I might instance the Russwurms, the Garnets, the Wards, the
Crummells and others, all men of superior ability and attainments, and
capable of removing mountains of prejudice against their race, by their
simple presence in the country; but these gentlemen, finding themselves
embarrassed here by the peculiar disadvantages to which I have referred,
disadvantages in part growing out of their education, being repelled by ignorance
on the one hand, and prejudice on the other, and having no taste to
continue a contest against such odds, they have sought more congenial
climes, where they can live more peaceable and quiet lives. I regret their
election, but I cannot blame them; for with an equal amount of education and
the hard lot which was theirs, I might follow their example ....

"There is little reason to hope that any considerable number of the free
colored people will ever be induced to leave this country, even if such a
thing were desirable. The black man (unlike the Indian) loves civilization.
He does not make very great progress in civilization himself but he likes to
be in the midst of it, and prefers to share its most galling evils, to encountering
barbarism. Then the love of country, the dread of isolation, the lack of
adventurous spirit, and the thought of seeming to desert their 'brethren in
bonds,' are a powerful check upon all schemes of colonization, which look
to the removal of the colored people, without the slaves. The truth is, dear
madam, we are here, and here we are likely to remain. Individuals emigrate —
nations never. We have grown up with this republic, and I see nothing
in her character, or even in the character of the American people, as yet
which compels the belief that we must leave the United States. If then, we
are to remain here the question for the wise and good is precisely that you
have submitted to me — namely: What can be done to improve the condition
of the free people of color in the United States? The plan which I humbly
submit in answer to this inquiry (and in the hope that it may find favor with
you, and with the many friends of humanity who honor, love, and cooperate
with you) is the establishment in Rochester, N. Y., or in some other part of
the United States equally favorable to such an enterprise, of an INDUSTRIAL
COLLEGE in which shall be taught several important branches of the mechanic
arts. This college to be open to colored youth. I will pass over the details of
such an institution as I propose .... Never having had a day's schooling in all
my life I may not be expected to map out the details of a plan so comprehensive
as that involved in the idea of a college. I repeat, then, I leave the
organization and administration to the superior wisdom of yourself and the
friends who second your noble efforts. The argument in favor of an
Industrial College (a college to be conducted by the best men, and the best

Notes and Questions

Nobody has written a note for this page yet

Please sign in to write a note for this page