Statement by Helen Gahagan Douglas: Opposition to Un-American Activities Committee, 1947-11-04

Item — Box: 74, Folder: 15

Identifier: CAC_CC_014_3.2_74_15_0047

Staff Only

Helen Gahagan Douglas criticizes the House Committee on Un-American Activities for their conduct during the Hollywood hearings, stating that they do not protect the rights of witnesses and unfairly target individuals and the film industry. She argues that combating communism should be done through addressing poverty and education, not through violating constitutional rights. Douglas opposes the committee's infringement on freedom of speech and advocates for protecting individual rights and democratic principles. She also highlights the dangers of using extreme measures in response to communism and cites a resolution by the House of Bishops of the Protestant Episcopal Church in support of safeguarding freedom of conscience. Douglas emphasizes the importance of upholding American values and principles in the face of anti-communist hysteria.