The Saint Paul Sun

LARGE CROWD HEARS
WILKINS AT G.O.P.
WORKSHOP LUNCHEON

More than 300 persons attended the luncheon sponsored by the Hennepin County Republican Workshop last Friday at Hotel Leamington when J. Ernest Wilkins, assistant secretary of labor, spoke on "Labor's Role on the Eisenhower Scene."

After outlining statistical facts on increased employment, steady prices, and higher wages pertaining throughout the nation since the present administration took office in 1953, Mr. Wilkins emphasized that "the increased income has not been eaten away by inflation."

Before concluding his speech the assistant secretary of labor discussed racial conditions in America, pointing out that "90 per cent of Americans want to improve racial conditions but fear ostracism which might come if they speak out. Only 10 per cent want to maintain the status quo."

He sounded a note of warning when he said, "Unless America cleans her own house first, she will not be able to keep her place as leader in the world. If America tolerates practices in any part of the United States which resemble those of Nazi Germany or Soviet Russia, then the sincerity of its freedom will be questioned by other nations of the world."

Several persons questioned Mr. Wilkins from the floor when he finished speaking, including some from the large group of high school students who filled the back of the room.

Since Mr. Wilkins is in the city attending the General Conference of the Methodist Church, he was available for the luncheon engagement. He is secretary of the Judicial Council of the Methodist Church.