Eva Perry Moore to National Council of Women Executive Committee, November 20, 1924

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Nov. 20, 1924.

Members of the Executive Committee:

Will you please consider the enclosed letter quite confidential until we have answers from all of you, that would warrant action.

For some months, criticism has come to this office concerning the radical views of the League for Peace and Freedom; resolutions of censure have been passed by some organizations in membership; the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House, considering an appropriation to the National Council for entertaining the International, sent special request for information concerning this organization by some of them called "disloyal."

My first thought is always to be fair toward every belief and to know the truth before judging. I have, therefore, gone directly to their officers and asked in regard to specific statements made in "Peace at any old Price" and found there were misstatements and inaccuracies clearly proved from their minutes.

However, I advised them to give their resignation from membership, as a more dignified proceeding than to be asked for it by others. I even assured them that, when the resignation was presented, I would give them the opportunity to make a statement and then withdraw, when action would be taken.

This resignation was sent, as follows:

"Mrs. Eva Perry Moore,
President, National Council of Women,
3125 Lafayette Ave.,
St. Louis, Missouri.

Dear Mrs. Moore:

The Executive Committee of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, Section of the United States, on September 12 took under consideration the question of continuing as a constituent member of the National Council of Women.

It was voted to ask you as President to accept the resignation of our League, and to express our appreciation of the purpose for which the Council was formed.

With best wishes for the success of the Sixth Quinquennial Convention to be held next Spring.

Sincerely,

(Signed) Amy Woods, Nat'l Secy.
For the Executive Committee."

The day of the opening of the Board, the resignation was withdrawn by action of their officers and upon advice of Miss Jane Addams, President of the International League for Peace and Freedom. Therefore, there was no resignation before the Board.

Since that time so many protests have been received; broadcasting has indicated suspicion of the loyalty of the National Council, due to the membership of the League for Peace and Freedom; that I have been forced to bring the matter to you for advice -- whether we shall consent to continued membership or ask their resignation.

This I do immediately, because we must be ready to meet and answer further Congressional disapproval after the opening of Congress, December 1st.

Awaiting your prompt response,

Very truly yours,

E. P. M.