Atlanta Daily World

"Get Out The Vote"

In his radio broadcast to the American people last Thursday night, President Roosevelt issued a significant summons to all qualified electors to go to the polls in November and voice their expression in the ballot box.

"The continuing health and vigor of our democratic system depends on the public spirit and devotion of its citizens which find expression in the ballot box," said Mr. Roosevelt.

Very properly, the President called attention to the fact that all the people should vote, or at least, "a clear majority" of them rather than a mere 49 per cent, as was the case in 1920, which was then, as now a most fateful year.

Not only did the President call upon all women of this nation to vote, but gave new emphasis to the right of all, "regardless of race, color or creed," to vote. For the "free and secret ballot is the keystone of our American constitutional system."

That clear statement should, at this time in particular, hold a special significance for American Negroes. We should also follow through to the voting booths, where the registration books in the communities where we live. We determine the quality and character of those who shall be commissioned to lead us.

Now is the time to get ready to make this important decision. The next four years in American history, like in the history of the whole world, will perhaps be our most fateful and eventful years. Upon the choice we make at the ballot box will depend our peace, our happiness and our future prosperity.