Our People's Condition
October 10, 1896
Summary
A contemplation on the state of the African American community.
Transcription
The outlook at present for our people is not at all discouraging and indicates that in the discussion of great financial questions, the Afro-American as an issue will pass away forever.
It is plainly apparent that the recognition which comes to him will not be based upon any sentimentality but will be reckoned in accordance with his political worth.
Votes which can be counted will be the measure of this elevation to office, and not those of the thousands who have been barred out from political avenues, and despite their blood-stained devotion to the cause are further away from the goal of political enfranchisement than ever.
It is to be regretted that this is so and the children will be expected to reap the benefits accruing from their fathers’ sacrifices.
There is no hope for us or our posterity in ignominious peace secured by the relinquishing of all that a people holds dear. There must be agitation and contention until recognized principles are allowed to exercise an unrestricted sway, and inherent rights are accorded all men before the law.
Supine submission creates disgust, multiplies the indignities and invitites our opposers to further and more furious assaults upon our liberties.
There is no state of rest for an Oppressed people, sojourning as they are in a world of turmoil and strife.
It is plainly apparent that the recognition which comes to him will not be based upon any sentimentality but will be reckoned in accordance with his political worth.
Votes which can be counted will be the measure of this elevation to office, and not those of the thousands who have been barred out from political avenues, and despite their blood-stained devotion to the cause are further away from the goal of political enfranchisement than ever.
It is to be regretted that this is so and the children will be expected to reap the benefits accruing from their fathers’ sacrifices.
There is no hope for us or our posterity in ignominious peace secured by the relinquishing of all that a people holds dear. There must be agitation and contention until recognized principles are allowed to exercise an unrestricted sway, and inherent rights are accorded all men before the law.
Supine submission creates disgust, multiplies the indignities and invitites our opposers to further and more furious assaults upon our liberties.
There is no state of rest for an Oppressed people, sojourning as they are in a world of turmoil and strife.
About this article
Source
Location on Page
Upper Left Quadrant
Topic
Contributed By
Liam Eynan
Citation
“Our People's Condition,” Black Virginia: The Richmond Planet, 1894-1909, accessed September 14, 2026, https://blackvirginia.richmond.edu/items/show/1592.