Untold Stories Collection

On September 18th, 1923, a troubling incident unfolded in Johnstown, PA, highlighting deep-seated racial tensions and discriminatory practices against Black and Mexican migrants. The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the governor of Pennsylvania swiftly condemned remarks made by Mayor Joseph Cauffiel, which threatened violence against these minority groups.

During this period, internal migration within the United States saw many African Americans leaving the Southern states for the industrial opportunities and relative safety of the North and West. Johnstown experienced a significant influx of Black residents, with their population more than tripling from fewer than 500 in 1910 to over 1,600 by 1920. Simultaneously, though smaller in number, the Mexican community in Johnstown was also growing, prompting resentment among some white residents.

In late August, Mayor Cauffiel's inflammatory public announcement demanded that Black and Mexican residents who had lived in Johnstown for fewer than seven years leave the town "for their own safety," implying that violence could be directed at them if they chose to remain. This discriminatory directive sparked immediate outrage and fear within the community.

In response, the governor of Pennsylvania intervened, sending a telegram to the NAACP pledging to uphold constitutional rights and prevent any unlawful discrimination or violence. Mayor Cauffiel, under pressure from public scrutiny and legal consequences, attempted to backtrack on his statements, claiming they were merely "suggestions" taken out of context. However, the damage was already done; over 2,000 families had fled Johnstown out of fear for their safety, facing displacement and losses without any efforts made to facilitate their return or compensate them.

This incident in Johnstown underscores the pervasive racial discrimination and violence that African American and Mexican communities faced during the early 20th century in many parts of the United States. It serves as a stark reminder of the enduring struggle for civil rights and equality, highlighting the critical role of advocacy organizations like the NAACP in combating systemic racism and protecting the rights of marginalized communities.