July 23, 1925.
Dear Madam:
The California Joint Immigration Committee was instrumental in securing passage of the measure excluding aliens ineligible for citizenship, in accord with the belief of President Roosevelt that an increase of unassimilable Asiatic population in the United States would inevitably lead to racial friction and international misunderstanding.
Since enactment of the law the Committee has been active in promoting better feelings with Japan by correcting some of the misunderstandings which existed, in Japan and here, as to the motives and reasons which actuated Congress in the matter.
The measure of success which has been obtained in removal or abatement of existing friction [through] friendly overtures on both sides will, perhaps, be more than offset by the campaign inaugurated by Dr. Sidney L. Gulick and George W. Wickersham, with the support of various church organizations, to reopen the question and so amend the law as to except Japanese from the provisions thereof.
Even Japanese opinion, here and in Japan, deprecates this move, believing that it will not be successful and that it will only increase friction.
Your attention is invited to the enclosed copy of letter to Dr. Gulick, May 19th, and the leaflet "America and Japan" which answers his public statement. It is suggested that you pass these enclosures after reading, to some prominent church man, preferably in the Eastern States, whose church organization is concerned in the movement, and invite his criticism and suggestion as to the matter. It is believed that the prestige and influence of the churches is being used in this matter in opposition to a sound American policy, and that loyal Americans, within and without the church, will so determine then they have had opportunity to examine the facts.
Additional copies of the enclosures and any further information desired may be had from this office on request.
Yours truly,
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