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Volume IV: Symbol of the Movement,
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To Mordecai W. Johnson5 July 1957 [Montgomery, Ala.] William Stuart Nelson, dean of Howard=s School of Religion, had proposed that King succeed him and suggested a future meeting to include Howard president Mordecai Johnson. On 2 May King wrote confirming a date for a 16 May meeting in Washington, D.C. Almost two months after the scheduled meeting, Johnson wrote that he was still "eagerly awaiting" King=s decision regarding the appointment. In the following letter King informs Johnson that he has decided to turn down the position at Howard because his "work in the South is not quite complete." Johnson replied on 3 August, supporting King=s decision: "There are indeed vast possibilities of a non-violent, non-cooperative approach to the solution of the race problem in the South; and this undertaking is challenging beyond measure. Intellectually and spiritually, you are fitted for the work; and I believe that God will give you all the strength which is needed day by day to go forward with it." Dr. Mordecai Johnson, President Howard University Washington, D.C. Dear Dr. Johnson: I must apologize for being so tardy in replying to you concerning the matter which we discussed a few weeks ago. Absence from the city on several occasions and the emergence of several unexpected responsibilities account for the delay. I can assure you that my failure to write you immediately was not due to sheer negligence, but to the inevitable pressures of an overcrowded schedule. I have thought and prayed over the decision many, many times since I talked with you last. After giving this offer every consideration I have come to the conclusion that my work in the South is not quite complete, or at least I have not been able to do several of the things that I would like to see done before leaving. The vast possibilities of a non-violent, non-cooperative approach to the solution of the race problem are still challenging indeed. I would like to remain a part of the unfolding development of this approach for a few more years. When I talked with you the other night I felt that many of my obligations and desires in the South could be fulfilled by June of 1958. But now I have the feeling that it will take longer. In the light of the above mentioned considerations I find it necessary to decline your gracious offer to serve as Dean of the School of Religion. Please know that I regret this very deeply. This has been one of the most difficult decisions that I have had to make in my brief career. The difficulty of the decision stems from the fact that the deanship of such an outstanding school of religion is something that the greatest of men will find challenging and attractive. Words are inadequate for me to express my deep appreciation to you for considering me for such a significant position. It gives me a deep sense of humility to know that you at least feel that I can fill the post. I must thank you also for being so patient during my moments of decision. I will always remain indebted to you for your encouraging words and Christian generosity. With warm personal regards. Yours very truly, M.L. King, Jr., Minister MLK:mlb TLc. MLKP-MBU: Box 82. |
