Document 35: James Hubert to Helen Davis, clinic staff, 25 June 1934, 2 pp., Reel 32, Papers of Margaret Sanger, 1900-1966, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.
Introduction
This letter from the Urban League's president reasserting the request for a $200 donation from the clinic provides an account of the league's reasons for the request. As the Depression deepened, the league, like the clinic, found it harder to raise funds to meet its expenses. Hubert also reiterated his continuing commitment to the clinic.
[p. 1]
June 25, 1934
Miss Helen B. Davis
Birth Control Clinic
204 West 156th Street
New York, N. Y.Dear Miss Davis:
I have had a talk with Reverend Imes concerning the Birth Control Clinic. My proposition was that the Bureau contribute for space now occupied at the Urban League, a minimum of $200.00 per year, and that this amount be payable as of January 1, 1934.
It now appears that there is some feeling that the amount is more than should be asked. Also we have a request that the room be decorated at the League's expense. I have taken this up with our Housing Committee, who share with me the opinion that even with a contribution of $200.00, we would not be justified in incurring this extra expense.
First of all, may I explain that this is not a charge for rent, but a carrying charge to help bear interest on mortgages, light, heat, janitor service, etc. It so happens that a similar room is being used by one of our affiliated clubs for which they pay $25.00 per month. This amount was arrived at after a very careful analysis of the carrying charges of the Building. You can see, therefore, that the figure given the Birth Control League is 33 1/3 per cent less than is being paid by another organization.
I realize that the Bureau like all private agencies must be facing a terrific task in raising funds. The New York Urban League certainly is. There is no exception to this rule, and I cannot believe that the officers of this organization would want to escape their responsibility by unloading it on the shoulders of the Urban League. Besides, it is my conviction that there is a deep interest in the program that the Bureau has to offer, and its program, therefore, presents an opportunity for those of Harlem who are interested, to approach the public and secure additional support. I think it is the tasks of your Advisory Committee rather than the officers of the League.
[p. 2]
Again may I assure you and the members of your Committee of my deep personal interest in the work of the Birth Control and my desire to help in every possible way. However great this interest may be, I must adhere to the policy and rules governing the Urban League in arriving at these decisions.
If I can be of any further assistance, please let me know.
Very truly yours,
James H. Hubert
Executive Director
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