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The White House Washington March 22, 1949 Dear Mr. Suman: The time is again at hand when many Americans turn their thoughts to the education of Negro youth. Along with most other Americans, I place great reliance on education as a means of national self-improvement. The founders of our country had great faith in education. Jefferson, in particular, felt that an educated citizenry was essential to the development of a democracy. For many thousands of Negro youth, local, private Negro colleges offer the best opportunity for education and advancement. These colleges have their origin deep in the roots of America. Many of them were created by missionary effort. All of them have a background of religious faith. Their continued growth and improvement should be a source of pride to all Americans, for they represent the sincere efforts of people who have banded together in the American way -- to help themselves by helping one another. Very sincerely yours, Harry Truman Mr. John R. Suman, 38 East 57th Street, New York 22, N. Y. 1949 social worker teacher nurse homemaker Only a hope ... a hundred years ago