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Marietta, Washington
December 28, 1949.

Judge N. B. Johnson,
President, N. C. A. I.,
Claremore, Oklahoma.

Dear Sir:

Relative to the convention of the National Congress of American Indians to be held in the city of Bellingham, State of Washington, I am compelled to ask you to reconsider the date tentatively set for August 27.

I have been aware of my appointment to the office of Regional Secretary for N.C.A.I., and about a month ago Hiram Clark visited me and after discussing matters pertaining to the coming convention, he left me with the impression that the setting up of our convention date should devolve upon us here in the local community.

So when I learned that a date in August was set by George Adams, I immediately went down to his home and told him that a date in August would not be convenient for our people in this region, and that a date in June would be better for all concerned.

Adams did not cooperate so I am forced to appeal to you and your associates to consider this change of date from August 27 to June 5, 6, 7 and 8.

The reasons for this needed change is imperative because it is the suitable season so you can see from the letters I am enclosing.

And because it will be helpful in getting better attendance which should help get new membership.

The facts stated in the accompanying letters about the peak of our fishing season in August, is all too true and it would definitely interfere with our membership drive.

The Bellingham Chamber of Commerce, Lummi Business Council of our local tribe, the John H. Kittles American Legion post of Lummi, and Hamilton post of Bellingham and all this neighboring Indian tribes beg you to give this request your favorable consideration.

Change the date from August 27 to June 5,6,7,8, and let me know at the earliest date and send me such credentials as I will need to proceed with this work.

Respectfully yours,

Herbert John
Herb John