Eisenhower Writes to Jackie Robinson on Civil Rights, Equal Citizenship, and the Pace of Racial Progress (1958)

Date: June 4, 1958

Created By: Dwight D. Eisenhower

Original or Replica: Original

Era: Civil Rights, The Presidency

Collection: Eisenhower Presidential Library

Citations: DDE’s Records as President, Official File, Box 614, OF 142-A (6); NAID #17368593

In this June 4, 1958 letter, President Dwight D. Eisenhower responds to Jackie Robinson following a meeting of Black leaders in Washington, D.C. Robinson had apparently expressed concerns about Eisenhower’s emphasis on patience and forbearance in the struggle for civil rights. Eisenhower clarifies that he did not intend those qualities to replace constructive action or continued efforts toward racial equality. He emphasizes that he had never advocated ending efforts by individuals, organizations, or government to secure for all Americans the constitutional rights and privileges of citizenship.

Eisenhower states his belief that every American, regardless of race or creed, deserves equal civil rights and liberties, declaring that there can be no “half-free citizen” in a democracy. He argues that Americans could take pride in the progress already achieved through growing mutual understanding while acknowledging that the country had not yet reached the goal of fair and equal treatment regardless of race or color. Eisenhower expresses confidence that progress would continue and praises Robinson and others who had struggled personally for dignity and achievement as important leaders in that effort. The letter illustrates Eisenhower’s emphasis on gradual progress and mutual understanding while also affirming the federal government’s role in advancing constitutional civil rights.