From Julian Bond to the Democratic National Committee, on behalf of Green Co., Alabama, 11 Sept 1969

Dear Member of the Democratic National Committee,

I write you seeking support for the Reverend Mr. William McKinley Branch of Forkland (Greene County) Alabama to fill that state's now vacant National Commitee seat.

The National Democratic Party of Alabama has struggled against racism, poverty, and the established Alabama Democratic Party structure which is at home George Wallace's, yet nationally attempts to be seen as that which it is not.

There is no incumbent to be challenged here.

The vacancy should be filled by a representative of the black citizens of Alabama who, ssince they comprise most of the loyal national Democratic voters of that state, are entitled to formal recognition on our party's governing body.

The recent Greene County, Alabama elections ( and the Reverend Mr. Branch's 1968 Congressional race) indicate that with but little encouragement a new and winning brand of regional politics can emerge in the Deep South.

The NDPA has elected 23 candidates to public office since the Chicago convention. Mr. Branch, as co-chairman of the Greene County party -- and the founder of the NAACP there -- has demonstrated a capacity for leadership.

I would personally appreciate your rendering him assistance at next week's National Committee meeting.

Sincerely,

Julian Bond

September 11, 1969