The 1843 National Convention of Colored Citizens, held in Buffalo, New York, served as a critical forum for African American leaders to address the multifaceted challenges facing their community. Beyond the powerful speeches and prominent figures, the convention was defined by its rigorous examination of various issues, leading to the formation of committees, detailed reports, and the passage of numerous resolutions. These discussions covered a wide
range of topics, from economic empowerment and education to political engagement and the role of the church, revealing both areas of strong consensus and significant controversy among the delegates.
Economic Empowerment and Social Advancement
During the convention, several committees were established to delve into specific issues deemed vital for the advancement of colored people. These committees focused on topics such as the general condition of colored people, the mechanical arts, agriculture, and the press. One notable outcome was the creation of a statistical report, which aimed to document the number of colored people, their professions, and their holdings, providing a factual basis for their discussions.
A key area of focus was economic empowerment. Delegates recognized the importance of practical skills, and colored citizens were strongly encouraged to learn mechanical arts, as this was seen as a pathway to creating opportunities for influence and self-sufficiency. Furthermore, the convention concluded that agriculture offered broad benefits, and it was resolved that colored people residing in cities should be encouraged to relocate to farms. This recommendation aimed to foster economic independence and potentially greater freedom in rural settings. To support these initiatives and to advocate for the people's freedom, it was also resolved that a weekly newspaper should be established, providing a vital platform for communication and advocacy. These ideas, stemming from the committee reports, received strong support from the convention, reflecting a collective vision for economic and social uplift.
Political Engagement and Education
The condition of colored people was a central subject for the convention, leading to discussions on various strategies for improvement. Delegates critically examined the concept of American colonization, concluding that despite any initial good intentions, it ultimately hindered the cause of freedom. Corrupt missionary work, in particular, was condemned, indicating a desire to challenge institutions that might inadvertently or directly undermine the struggle for equality.
Education was identified as a cornerstone of progress, and the convention stressed its vital importance for colored children. This emphasis highlighted a long-term vision for empowerment through knowledge and skill development. Furthermore, the convention determined it was of crucial importance for colored people who were citizens to exercise their right to vote. This underscored a growing recognition of political participation as a powerful tool for change. The convention also argued for the support of the Liberty Party, a political party dedicated to abolitionist movements through political action. However, this resolution was not without disagreement, as some attendees were opposed to the idea of pledging their vote to any single political party. A separate resolution supporting the formation of The Freeman party was also debated and proved controversial, with some questioning the wisdom of supporting both parties. Ultimately, both resolutions passed, reflecting a desire to explore multiple avenues for political influence.
Controversial Debates: The Address to Slaves and the Church
Among the most contentious issues debated at the convention were Resolution No. 10, concerning a potential address to slaves, and Resolution No. 1, regarding support for the church. Resolution No. 10 was arguably the most heavily discussed and controversial, ultimately failing to pass. This debate famously pitted Henry Highland Garnet, who advocated for slaves to rise against their masters, against Frederick Douglass, who argued for peaceful methods. Arguments against the address included concerns that it would endanger free black citizens and that it promoted violence. Despite being rejected twice, a revote was called. President Amos G. Beman spoke against it on moral grounds, and it was rejected indefinitely on its third vote, illustrating the deep divisions over the use of force.
Resolution No. 1, dealing with the support of the church, also sparked significant discussion. Frederick Douglass suggested adding the word "Christian" to the resolution. While most delegates were supportive of religion, various members expressed reservations about the existing Christian church. Some believed the church was too corrupt to be reformed, while others feared that abandoning it would prevent any future reform. After considerable debate, the original resolution in support of the church passed, but the word "Christian" was not added. These debates highlight the complex moral, strategic, and religious considerations that animated the 1843 National Convention of Colored Citizens as delegates grappled with the most effective means to achieve freedom and justice.
