Rev. W.J. Powers Denounces Lynchers.

REW. W. J. POWERS DENOUNCES LYNCHERS.

We present to our many readers of the National Advocate in the person of the Rev. W. J. Powers, of the Roman Catholic Church, a Christian gentleman, and a true friend to the negro race. He appeared on the scene on Tuesday, June 15^th when the mob and outlaws lynched three innocent colored citizens. He climbed part way up the pole and began pleading for the safety of the negroes. “You don’t know whether these men are guilty or not, I know the crime is a most heinous one, but let the law take its course. In the name of God and the church I represent, I ask you to stop.” Cries of “To Hell with the law,” “Lynch him,” and “Remember the girl,” was the response of the mob and the leaders went on with their work. A second effort to pacify the mob by another Catholic priest failed also.
The Editor and Publisher of the National Advocate has been in Duluth for the last two weeks, finding facts that will be important when these men are tried. It will be proven that these statements are untrue. The girl was examined by one of the very best white physicians of the city of Duluth. When the grand jury was discharged it was being congratulated by the Honorable Judges of St. Louis County and the best citizens and every club and organization has endorsed the good work done by the Grand Jury and have asked a speedy investigation of the police department, and the general public throughout the country holds the city officials responsible for this disgraceful occurrence which happened in Duluth on Tuesday, June 15^th.