A copy of legislation (H.R. 6127) introduced by Representative Emanuel Celler, known as the Civil Rights Act of 1957, to provide means of further securing and protecting the civil rights of persons within the jurisdiction of the United States.
A brief letter from Representative L. Mendel Rivers requesting the opportunity to appear in opposition to the Celler Civil Rights Bill when it reaches the House Rules Committee.
A letter congratulating Rivers on his speech before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Constitutional rights. Alfred is encouraged by Rivers' continued fight to protect states' rights.
A transcript of a four-page speech given by Representative August E. Johansen before the House of Representatives concerning his opposition to the Civil Rights Act of 1957. Johansen argues that there is an over reliance on the federal government to solve civil rights problems and a real fear that the zeal for improving civil rights issues will get out of hand.
A six-page letter from members of Congress opposed to the civil rights bill. The congressmen specifically cite extraordinary powers given to the attorney general, the removal of the right of trial by jury in contempt cases, and the superseding of state courts by federal courts for civil rights cases. Representative Rivers is a signatory of the letter.
A letter from a Florida resident to Representative Syd Herlong, Jr. expressing his vehement opposition to the Civil Rights Act of 1957. Copies of the letter were sent to many other congressmen and senators including Representative L. Mendel Rivers.
A postcard from a South Carolina constituent condemning Representative Rivers' stand against the civil rights bill. The constituent reminds Rivers that he will remember him when he runs for reelection.
Correspondence concerning a request for a hearing by representatives from South Carolina before the House Committee on the Judiciary concerning civil rights.
A "Fact Sheet" produced by the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights that attempts to counter some of the arguments and misconceptions against H.R. 6127, the civil rights bill.
A copy of Public Law 85-315 known as the Civil Rights Act of 1957. The Act establishes a Commission on Civil Rights and strengthens guarantees of civil rights, including the right to vote and trial by jury.
