Anti-Wallace Broadside

Collection

Identifier: MSS-4732

No requestable containers

Scope and Contents

This mimeographed flyer, produced by the Congress of African People in Philadelphia in 1970, promotes “The People’s Ball,” an event opposing George Wallace and his segregationist policies, referred to as “Wallace-ism.” The flyer invites attendees to meet John Cashin, an African American dentist, civil rights activist, and gubernatorial candidate in Alabama, and to support the fight against racism in the South. It features an illustration of George Wallace with a footprint on his face, symbolizing opposition to his ideology. The event, held at the Hotel Philadelphia at Broad and Vine Streets, included entertainment by Carl Holmes’ Band.

Dates

Creation: 1970

Conditions Governing Access

Collection is open for research. Researchers must register and agree to copyright and privacy laws before using this collection. Manuscript collections and archival records may contain materials with sensitive or confidential information that is protected under federal or state right to privacy laws and regulations. Due to the nature of certain archival formats, including digital and audio-visual materials, access to certain materials may require additional advance notice.

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Biographical / Historical

The Congress of African People (CAP) was a Black nationalist and socialist organization active in the late 1960s and 1970s, advocating for Black self-determination, political empowerment, and racial justice. Founded by Amiri Baraka and others, CAP played a significant role in mobilizing African Americans against racism and white supremacy, particularly in opposition to segregationist politicians like George Wallace.

George Wallace, the four-term governor of Alabama, was a staunch advocate of segregation and white supremacy, famous for his 1963 declaration: “Segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever.” His influence extended beyond the South, making him a key figure in national debates over civil rights. Wallace’s 1970 gubernatorial campaign was met with fierce opposition from civil rights activists, including John Cashin, an African American dentist and political activist from Huntsville, Alabama. Cashin co-founded the National Democratic Party of Alabama (NDPA), which sought to provide an alternative to the state’s racist political establishment.

The flyer promoting “The People’s Ball” in Philadelphia reflects the broader nationwide resistance to Wallace and his ideology. The event aimed to raise awareness and support for Cashin’s campaign while fostering solidarity in the fight against racial oppression. This document is an example of grassroots political organizing within the African American community during the Civil Rights and Black Power movements of the 1970s.