The El Paso Conference A conference of religious, social, edu- cational, and welfare representatives held to consider the interests of Mexicans and Spanish-speaking people in the United States, at the Church of the Divine Savior, El Paso, Texas, December 11-16, 1926. This pamphlet embodies the final find- ings of the conference and a statement regarding the disposition made of reports submitted by the several chairmen of commissions. aa CONTENTS Introduction 0 sGecc ee hs pee es ae eee 3—D Chairmen of Commissions, Committees, Officers .............. 5-6 Findings and Recommendations Socitalcand: Economic actors = wien. sets eee eee eee 7-10 Internationalsand#lntérracial Vactorsee. =. et ee eee 11-12 Education eo cmiechetate cst, cre agt ioe ee one ae ee eo ened en te te 13-15 Religioty ~. vos erspculaere se cts oe nla eas pean anePont SAO ter Vic estas ene eRe 16-17 Literature... 32 Sokeceie cee es catees econ Me erecta toe eee ata cae 18-19 Mexicans and Spanish-speaking people in the United States. Un- der the heads of, Social and Economic Factors, Education, Reli- gion, Interracial and International Factors, and Literature, five commis- sions prepared respective reports. The facts gathered by commissions came from every section of the United States where Mexicans were found. Representatives of many agencies participated in this preliminary study. These reports constituted the basis for discussion and final findings. No effort was made to complete a detailed, scientific survey. It was the hope that this conference might serve participating groups who are facing immediate problems, and, at the same time, point the way for continuing studies in this field. The procedure throughout was based on the theory that the chief need in most situations is not an exhaustive compilation of facts gathered by parties who cannot use them, but an honest facing of many facts already available or readily secured by those who are actually responsible for changing conditions. Too often knowledge far outruns the disposition to use it. For this reason administrators and local workers were enlisted in carrying out preliminary studies and in directing the conference itself. The conference was projected by Home Mission boards having work in the Southwest, which are constituent members of Council of Women for Home Missions and Home Missions Council. The two Councils voted their endorsement of the conference and also their cooperation. While the interest of the Councils and field workers furnished the princi- pal incentive to the conference it ought to be said that this interest was intensified by the consideration the Committee on Cooperation in Latin America was giving to several possible conferences in the region of West Indies and Mexico. The financial backing was provided by interested boards. The confer- ence itself, however, included representatives of Home Mission boards, educators, welfare workers, and business men. [very effort was made also to secure a fifty per cent representation of the Mexican and Spanish- speaking people themselves. This ideal was not fully realized, but fully fifty Spanish-speaking people were registered as delegates and shared freely in conference discussions. The conference was not planned as an occasion for a group of Anglo-Americans to confer about Spanish-speak- ing people in this country. It was rather to be a conference in which rep- resentatives of both groups would confer together about matters of mutual interest. The total registration was fully one hundred and fifty. The committee had planned on about one hundred and twenty-five. The registration was limited in order to provide adequate opportunity for dis- cussion. The purpose of the conference, as declared by the Committee on Arrangements, was :— 1. Cooperatively to find and face the facts basic to the solution of the major problems affecting Mexicans and Spanish-speaking people in the United States. 2. To develop and focus a more intelligent public opinion on these problems. 4 El Paso Conference was set up to consider the interests of 3 3. To provide that all interested agencies may face the facts together and permit each to use the findings in such ways as may be of advantage to their own programs. The following statement made by the chairman at the opening session fittingly expresses the purpose and spirit which pervaded the conference throughout — It ought to be constantly kept_in mind that this is not a conference of people all of whom see eye to eye. Our unity will lie in an open-minded approach to facts which may come before us. We may not all interpret facts in the same way. We can at least be sympathetic and charitable toward each other. The presence of the delegates here is certainly evidence of a mutual interest in a com- mon cause. Then, too, we are not here to find fault with each other, or discredit each other, or the organizations we represent. We are here first of all to discover the privileges to which the Mexican and Spanish-speaking people, who are a part of our common social life, are entitled, and the means by which these can be provided. The best that any individual or group has done in relation to such ends is all too limited and imperfect to warrant much stone-throwing. It will be far better if each will give attention to evaluating his own work in the light of unmet needs and responsibilities, rather than to emphasize the shortcomings of others. We are not here to correct others but to find facts which may affect the policies, attitudes, and aims of all our groups after this conference is over. It will be a real step forward also if we can realize that none of our agencies can function most effectively on an individualistic basis. This conference ought to make allies of many who heretofore have had very limited dealings with each other. The participation of both Spanish-speaking and Anglo-American groups in the conference was most gratifying. The fact that sessions were held in one of the Mexican churches of El Paso, and all speeches were interpreted, contributed much to the success of the meeting. It also greatly affected the Mexican people of the community, many of whom attended the evening sessions. The influence from these factors cannot be measured, but it is by no means the least of the benefits coming from the gathering. The interest in the conference never lagged. The delegates remained throughout. A new sense of unity and mutual responsibility was awakened. The difficulties and magnitude of the problems involved were more clearly revealed. The final findings presented herein will show that few things which vitally affect the welfare of Mexican or Spanish-speaking groups were overlooked. Each study topic was freely discussed. Every partici- pating agency will be profited. The church groups, being most numerous, will as a consequence profit most. Reverend Vicente Mendoza, a native Mexican and editor of El Mundo Cristiano, of Mexico City, and Jose Kelly, general delegate of the Mexican Federation of Labor, made worthy contributions to the conference. Each gave one of the main addresses of the five-day meeting; Mr. Mendoza on Sunday evening, December 12, and Mr. Kelly on Wednesday evening, December 15. Mr. Mendoza, who has made a close study of social and industrial conditions on this side of the border, as well as of recent religio- political developments in Mexico, gave several reasons why Mexican immi- grants refuse to become American citizens. He mentioned pride of race, nearness of native land, conviction that American industry seeks to exploit Mexican laborers, lack of social considerations, and a memory of the War of 1847. Mr. Kelly, Mexican labor leader, denied that organized labor in Mexico 4 maintains bolshevistic or socialistic agencies in Europe, and pictured the southern republic on the eve of making a positive contribution to the civil, industrial and cultural progress of the world. “Tf alien forces inimical to the wholesome development of our nationhood let us work out our political and industrial destiny un- hampered, if Mexicans take their stand as Mexicans, build up a school system and use all other available elements of their strength, the United States will in time cease to have a Mexican immigrant problem; Mexico not only will keep all of her own people but will have an immigrant problem of her own, so great and valuable are her natural resources. In the meantime Mexico looks to United States to send back to her bands of educated young people prepared to join in the work of reconstruction.” Mr. Kelly predicted a new day for Mexican labor in the United States. “The goal of Mexican labor here,” he said, “is a position in skilled and unskilled ranks now occupied by members of racial groups having their American origins a generation or two ago.’ The conference as a whole gave all a new realization of the necessity of closer cooperation and more mutual good will. Representatives of church and social agencies came to see that a more sympathetic relation should exist between them. The complete task discovered calls for the contribution of all. The impression was made that a new day has dawned for these Spanish-speaking people who are destined to become a more conspicuous factor in the social and economic life of our nation. No complete report of the conference is being printed. The Findings are included in this pamphlet. The reports of commissions, as presented by their chairmen, with notations as to changes and as approved by the conference, are available on request. The supply, while limited, is felt to be adequate to care for any normal demand. The chairmen of commissions were as follows :— Social and Economic Factors—Robert N. McLean, Associate Director, Department City, Immigrant and Industrial Work, Board of National Missions, Presbyterian Church, WS BASIS ents Calif. Education—Thomas W. Currie, President, Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church, U.S., Austin, Texas. Religion—Jay S. Stowell, Director of Publicity, Board of Home Missions and Church Extension of the Methodist Episcopal Church, Philadel- phia, Pa. Interracial and International Factors—George L. Cady, Secretary, Ameri- can Missionary Association, New York, N. Y. Literature—E. M. Sein, Pastor, Plaza Mexican Church, Los Angeles, Cali; OFFICERS OF CONFERENCE President—Charles E. Vermilya, 156 Fifth Avenue, New York. Vice-President—E. M. Sein, Plaza Methodist Episcopal Church, Los Angeles, Calif. Secretary—James H. Batten, Pomona College, Claremont, Calif. Interpreters—E. M. Sein, Los Angeles, Calif.; F. 5S. Onderdonk, San Antonio, Texas. Chairman, Committee on Procedure and Findings—Wiulliam P. Shriver, New York. 5 CONTINUATION COMMITTEE George W. Hinman Thomas W. Currie R. C. Ortega Jay S. Stowell H. C. Donaldson Floyd Poe Charles E. Vermilya § Vernon M. McCombs _ Charles A. Thomson James H. Batten L. S. Mercado COMMITTEE TO CONTINUE STUDY OF SEASONAL LABOR, WAGES, AND HousING Robert N. McLean, 313 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles, Calif. Edwin R. Brown, 1254 Royal Court Street, Los Angeles, Calif. B. F. Coen, State Agricultural College, Ft. Collins, Colo. B. K. Tenney, Dallas, Texas. S. L. Hernandez, 3125 Rivera Street, El Paso, Texas. Z. T. Scott, Littlefield Bldg., Austin, Texas. F. S. Onderdonk, San Antonio, Texas. Mrs. C. S. Guerrero, San Marcos, Texas. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Fred L. Brownlee Russell S. Showers Frank A. Smith Carroll M. Davis Hermann N. Morse Frank E. Stockwell John McDowell Samuel G. Inman Mrs. F. S. Bennett Grace Love Daisy June Trout G. I. Babcock Homer McMillan W. I. Haven Ernest M. Halliday W. H. Matthews R. L. Russell Thomas S. Evans Mrs. J. W. Downs Mrs. J. Ferguson James Cannon Jay S. Stowell, Secretary *David D. Forsyth Charles E. Vermilya, Sponsor Mrs. W. H. C. Goode INTERDENOMINATIONAL COUNCIL ON SPANISH-SPEAKING WORK IN THE SOUTHWEST President—George W. Hinman, 287 Fourth Avenue, New York. Vice-President—George L. White, 317 West 3rd St., Los Angeles, Calif. Executive Secretary—Charles A. Thomson, 756 Union Street, San Fran- CISCO, Calire THE HOME MISSIONS COUNCIL President iiacc cia s Bare ego ie eet ee eee Dr. Charles L. White Secretary. sey «Wl s oieha ane Race eoeet ee ree Charles E. Vermilya THE COUNCIL OF WOMEN FOR HOME MISSIONS President :23 Fire, tre re oe eres eee ie Mrs. John Ferguson Secretary / Sih). gi ee chi. ort ieee eee RET Florence E. Quinlan 156 Fifth Avenue | New York. *Deceased RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION ON SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS Adopted by the El Paso Conference December I1-16 I. WHEREAS the housing conditions of recent Mexican immigrants are generally bad, and WHEREAS these conditions tend to develop discontent leading to migrancy, which in turn leads to a demand for more immigration, tending to perpetuate the vicious circle, and WHEREAS the employers of Mexican labor fail in general to recog- nize the economic waste, and WHEREAS the Mexican children are crowding into our public schools wherever possible, and that their influence on the Anglo-American children is dominantly colored by their home environment, and WHEREAS for the stability of democratic government, equal educa- tional opportunity is necessary for all members of the commonwealth, and WHEREAS child labor tends to prevent children of school age from receiving school instruction at the right time, under proper conditions, and WHEREAS health is dependent upon proper sanitation, supply of fresh air, and clean food, and WHEREAS Mexican housing conditions are bad, the people them- selves are generally afraid of night air, and are ignorant of proper diet, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That through all possible local agencies an aggressive campaign of education be instituted, looking for- ward to establishment of better homes for immigrant laborers and the determination of minimum standards of wholesome housing. We Recommend that all agencies represented in this Conference co- operate with the American Red Cross and other health agencies in their campaigns of health education. We wish to commend the National Child Labor Committee for its efforts put forth in bettering conditions of child labor among Mexican people. Il. WHEREAS the Mexican is by nature attached to his home and is disinclined to migration, and WHEREAS seasonal labor demands in the United States of America require frequent shifting of common labor groups, and WHEREAS due to lack of training in thrift, the Mexican makes no provision for unemployed periods, too often becomes dependent upon society, and too frequently delinquent, and WHEREAS under existing migrant conditions, the adequate education of his children and his own civic and spiritual progress becomes an impos- sibility, We, therefore, Recommend, THAT the National Conference concerning Mexicans and Spanish- Americans in the United States, go on record as favoring cooperative efforts on the part of municipal, state and federal labor offices looking toward the adequate distribution of seasonal labor ; THAT a publicity campaign be initiated by the organizations in the National Conference concerning Mexicans and Spanish-Americans in the United States, through bureaus of charity and other social and Christian agencies, to demonstrate the social and economic waste in the present method of handling seasonal labor. 7 III. THAT public school boards and service organizations be encour- aged to provide opportunity classes and recreational facilities for adult Mexicans. IV. THAT agricultural organizations, chambers of commerce, rail- roads, and industry in general, be persuaded, as far as possible, to budget their annual labor needs in order to eliminate the necessity so far as pos- sible, of constant migration. V. THAT industry and social service agencies be encouraged to stimu- late activity for Mexicans during idle time, capitalizing their talents. VI. THAT organizations and individuals concerned with Mexican labor, be encouraged to foster thrift among their employees. VII. THAT our churches and social agencies be encouraged to co- operate as fully as possible with immigration officials, offering their serv- ices and request such officials to call the attention of immigrants to the advantages of these agencies to the end that they may feel a real welcome in America. VIII. THAT we deplore the widespread ignorance of Americans on the general subject of Mexican capacity, talent, and assimilability, and THAT we do all in our power to make the Mexicans’ sojourn in America a real participation in our American life. IX. THAT we Recommend the work being done by the Council of Women for Home Missions among migrants and cannery workers, and call upon our churches and community houses to cooperate in this service. Approved and Referred to the Special Committee to Be Appointed by Charles E. Vermilya, Secretary, Home Missions Council, for the Purpose of Making a Special Study of the Subject. X. THAT a committee be appointed by the National Conference con- cerning Mexicans and Spanish-Amercians in the United States: (a) To study methods for the control of seasonal Mexican labor, especially methods which have succeeded, and to suggest mini- mum wage standards ; (b) To study successful efforts for better housing of Mexican families, especially of casual workers, and to suggest minimum standards of wholesome housing for Mexican workers; (c) To present these findings and standards to corporations and individual employers of Mexican labor, to reach public opinion through press and trade associations of the area, and to bring to the Mexican population their own responsibilities by educa- tional methods. OUR SOGIAL AGENCIES AND THE MEXICAN Some mention ought to be made of varied services that American Social Agencies are rendering to the Mexicen. He is sometimes accused of too great dependency upon these agencies, but the charge itself suggests something of the active efficiency with which they are reaching out to meet his needs. Individual workers would do well to secure information as to just what organizations are found in their state, county, or city which can be called upon to aid in re-enforcing plans for needed relief in their com- munities. 8 I, DEPENDENCY AND POVERTY For the following reports we are indebted to Dr. Smith of the Associated Charities of Nogales, Arizona, “While there is some truth in the accusation that ‘the Mexican is improvi- dent and becomes a charge upon the community,’ we must set over against the statement the helpful constructive services which are being rendered in this field by the social agencies of the country at large and the Southwest in particular. “Practically any community carrying on any form of organized activity has its human welfare agency of some kind, which gives itself not only to the work of meeting emergencies in human need, but to that more serious and important task of guiding the worker into constructive types of action which lead to economic independence; in fact, all welfare workers oe this age set up this objective as being OL primenmpontance,ss tec oar “In this field of service we have the Associated Charities ae our urban communities. This organization carries on under a variety of names, but in practically every case it serves as a clearing house for all types of human ‘welfare work. Aside from this function it gives special attention to the stranger of the community, frequently making contacts which he has allowed to elapse. Often young men and young women are put in touch with parents and friends and thereby saved from vagrancy and crime. “A young American woman drifted to the cabaret life across the border. Her beauty attracted an intoxicated army officer who purchased her from the bartender for the sum of $500 cash in hand. She later made a desperate dash for liberty and on reaching American soil was arrested for being im- properly clothed. Being but fifteen years of age, the next day the chief of police and the judge brought her to the Charities officer for clothing and counsel which resulted in her being sent to the home of an aunt where she could finish her schooling and move in a religious atmosphere, all of which she was glad to do, and has become a most estimable young woman. Incidents could be multiplied almost indefinitely of this constructive service in our cities. “Family case work is a most appealing and fruitful field for Associated Charities work. Selecting a house, helping in the furnishing, planning the family budget, the taking up of any particular problems which may militate against their ability to ‘carry on’, giving direction to children and holding confidential counsel with the parents—all of this, and much more which is being systematically carried on by Welfare Agencies, gives evidence of being an indispensable service in adding to the sum total of human development and progress. “County Out Door Relief also functions in this field among those who are citizens of the county. An interesting item is reported where the superin- tendent makes a visit to every home prior to the opening of the public schools in September, making lists of all clothing, shoes and school supplies needed so that every child can appear at school on the opening day. This is kept up throughout the school year, attention being given to every item in the home and activities of the families which has direct or indirect bearing on their trek toward intellectual, moral and economic poise. “State Child Welfare plays a most important role in this great scheme of human uplift by furnishing money and giving at least general supervision and assistance to orphan and half-orphan children. “The American Red Cross, with its visiting nurse, Junior Red Cross and nutritional programs, has become the sworn enemy of disease and physical impoverishment in many isolated communities where economic and _ financial conditions have made it impossible for local people to successfully combat these evils. It also carries on through Chapters and Branches vital programs in our urban centers. “To prevent overlapping and waste, it is highly desirable that all of our: welfare agencies be coordinated in systematic cooperative effort. Notable in this connection are such cities and counties as St. Paul, Minnesota; Webster County and Des Moines, Iowa; City and County of Los Angeles, Calif.; El Paso, Texas; and Nogales and Santa Cruz County, Arizona— with others which might be mentioned. “Our Welfare Agencies represent the combined efforts of all of the people in combating the three common enemies of the race, namely poverty, ignorance and immorality.” is II. DELINQUENCY AND CRIME In the field of prevention may be listed all our special and community centers, settlements and churches. With their programs of recreation, education and inspiration, they furnish moral strength to many who otherwise would fall. The many national organizations which are promoting clubs are rendering large service in combating juvenile delinquency. The Y.M.C.A. has established Mexican branches at two points in the Southwest —E] Paso, Texas, and Miami, Arizona. The Y.W.C.A. ministers specifically to Mexican girls and young women through its International Institutes at San Antonio and Austin, Texas, and Los Angeles, Fresno, Oakland, and San Francisco, California. At other points American branches of both Associations endeavor to draw groups of Mexicans into their activities. The Boy Scouts are also reported to have organized several Mexican troops at various points in the Southwest. In some cases these are under the supervision of the American Service Clubs. Work is also probably being done by the Girl Scouts and the Camp Fire Girls. When the Mexican youngster oversteps the bounds of law, the Juvenile Court with its probation officers offers intelligent and sympathetic treatment of the youth- ful offender, and in many cases, by a study of his home and other environmental conditions, turns him back from a life of crime, and toward a career of usefulness. JGM) WShcinst Reference has been made to the outstanding health needs of the Mexican, and also to the services which our American agencies are rendering in this field. But it may not be superfluous to express again appreciation for the splendid helpfulness which clinics and hospitals are rendering. In addition to combating disease, they are also devoting great attention to health education with most encouraging results. In Los Angeles County, for example, over a period of seven years, the infant mortality rate for our Mexican population was reduced from 348.06 to 166.12. The school nurse by means of periodical examination of school children, followed up by visits to the homes, is also forwarding a good cause. IV. EpucaTIon Since education is the province of another commission, our report can but touch upon this point. The ordinary grade and high schools of course minister to the Mexican children and young people. In many places adult classes held at night for men, and sometimes during the day for women, afford opportunity to learn English and American standards of home-making. Vocational training in the grade and high schools is often of utility to the Mexican young people. Home teachers are a valuable feature of the educational system of California. They visit the homes of foreign families, organize classes in English, cooking, sewing, and other household arts wherever possible, and in general point their activities toward making the foreign mother a homogeneous element in the American community. THE CHRISTIAN SOCIAL CENTERS The Christian Social Centers render a varied social and religious service to the Mexican within our midst. Baptist, Congregational, Methodist, Presbyterian, and other denominations have already invested largely in this type of activity. The Sections of Women’s Work of the Board of Missions, Methodist Episcopal Church, South, has established Wesley Houses at Dallas, Ft. Worth, Houston, San Antonio, and Thurber, Texas, and at Los Angeles, California. The Presbyterian Church, U.S. A., has its Homes of Neighborly Service at Azusa, Monrovia, Los Angeles, San Gabriel, San Bernardino, Redlands, and El Monte, California; Brighton and Greeley, Colorado; and San Antonio, Texas. The Plaza Community Church of Los Angeles operates under the Latin-American Mission of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Four departments of work are carried on, namely, religious, which includes a regular church program with usual auxiliary organizations; night and day educa- tional classes with a Christian training school; a clinic and health department; and a general aid department. 10 RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL AND INTERRACIAL FACTORS S Adopted by the El Paso Conference December r1-16 I. We, the members of the National Conference concerning Mexicans and Spanish-Americans in the United States, assembled at El Paso, Texas, desire to urge upon our government that its relations with Mexico be developed in an atmosphere of sympathy and mutual good will, and that all questions at issue be approached with exceeding patience and resolved through conference and discussion. A sister republic is now engaged in a struggle for freedom no less significant and worthy than were the struggles of our own Revolution. Of all nations we should be the first to lend them our sympathy and the last to embarrass them in their hopes at this hour. We do not believe that a great nation reaches its best when it places property rights first, but that it is set by God in these times to help hu- manity up in its progress and to foster at all costs international good will. We would suggest that those who have made large investments in Mexico knew the peculiar hazards involved, and that a government whose highest ideals are peace and liberty ought not to jeopardize those ideals in order to validate claims so hazardously undertaken. We would suggest that our government first make a detailed study of such holdings and con- cessions, when secured, by whom and under what conditions granted, and the cost of such investments, and further to inquire carefully whether the Mexican people themselves were defrauded by the actions of their own government. It may be an unusual request from the standpoint of ordi- nary business; it is not too much to ask in the interest of humanity and national freedom. No government has.a right to alienate the land from its people and no other government has a right to be a partner in such aliena- tion. The American government could well afford to pay the purchase price for every investment of its citizens rather than precipitate an international conflict in the mere defense of property. We call upon our national authori- ties to exhaust every means to establish mutual good will. We believe that there can be no moral defense for the use of force or the breaking off of diplomatic relations in the present situation. We urge our government to set before itself one goal, the establishment and maintenance of friendly relations with our struggling sister republic on the south. II. We, the members of the National Conference concerning Mexicans and Spanish-Americans in the United States, assembled at El Paso, Texas, learn with shame the conditions of vice maintained largely by Americans along the Mexican border. Many of the larger gambling houses and saloons are operated and patronized by Americans, giving the Mexicans an interpretation of American life which is a national disgrace. If America is regarded as a Christian land then our Christianity is shamefully betrayed by citizens of Christendom. We desire to register our severest condemna- tions of both the owners and patrons of these institutions and to assure our Mexican brothers that these do not represent the moral and religious 1] life of America. And we would register our opinion that the revenue received from licensing these vices in no way compensates for the degen- erating influences which they occasion. We urge the government of the United States to enter into negotiations with the government of Mexico to suppress these evils in the interest of morality, public safety, and inter- national respect. Ill. RESOLVED, that this Conference recommends to its affiliated groups, that, in addition to their strictly religious work, they cooperate with the social agencies and labor organizations in developing higher moral, social and economic standards among Mexican workers, believing that the raising of their level of social and economic life will reflect itself in a spirit of material independence and a positive contribution to the religious and cultural life of our society. IV. This Conference favors the visits to Mexico of representatives of cur churches to further good will and mutual understanding, and also favors the visits of Mexican church representatives to this country for the same purpose. V. We are persuaded that the present status of the movement of populations from Mexico to the United States and from the United States to Mexico is not wholly satisfactory, and in view of the preferential treat- ment accorded North and South America in the determination of our immigration policy, we record our judgment that the wisest and most co- operative solution will be arrived at by constituting, by the Governments of the United States and Mexico, a Joint Commission on Emigration and Immigration to recommend to their respective governments appropriate legislation. Approved and Referred to Home Missions Council and Council of Women for Home Missions. VI. We Recommend that this Conference go on record as disapproving of the present methods being used in some places with regard to deporta- tion of Mexicans. With this end in view the Government should be petitioned, through its proper authorities, to investigate the matter carefully, and bring about the use of more humanitarian methods. 12 RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION ON EDUCATIONAL FACTORS Adopted by the El Paso Conference December 11-16 | The Commission on Education for the National Conference concerning Mexicans and Spanish-Americans in the United States presents for con- sideration of the body the following Findings: I. We recognize the public school systems as one of the most potent and efficient agencies for dealing with the problem of educating and train- ing for citizenship the growing population of Spanish-Americans and Mexican people in the United States; and We appreciate the scientific and conscientious projects which are now in progress in the progressive communities where real achievements are taking place—notably in San Antonio, El Paso, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and in many other localities ; and We commend to all communities which have a Spanish-speaking popu- lation a study of the methods in use in these localities. II. While the National Conference concerning Mexicans and Spanish- Americans in the United States, recognizes that there is no correlated pro- gram for the educational work which is being done by various Protestant denominational boards, yet we find very definite aims in the individual schools. After investigation of institutions doing this sort of work, we find that objectives are the same as those of public schools, plus the training . in Christian citizenship, and the developing of native leadership along Christian lines. In order to bring about a higher type of community life and to develop a better economic condition for the group: We Recommend the introduction of limited industrial courses in grades below high school with enlarged vocational opportunities for those desiring such courses in high school. This should be accomplished through additional equipment in schools or cooperatively through industries of the communities. III. We Recommend to all communities the widest possible use of higher education already provided by the State, and suggest experiments in the establishment of schools of religion in connection with these institu- tions. Approved and Referred to the Interdenominational Council on Spanish-Speaking Work IV. In order to carry into effect the recommendations just mentioned with reference to the church schools: _We Recommend that the Interdenominational Council on Spanish- speaking Work appoint at once a Continuation Commission which shall make surveys of several communities in New Mexico from which students 13 are coming to institutions in New Mexico with a view to discovering the agricultural and industrial opportunities; as a guide to these schools in formulating their curriculums. Approved and Referred to the Home Missions Council and Council of Women for Home Missions VY. In view of the need for providing opportunities in higher education for students graduating from our church schools in New Mexico and neighboring territory : We Recommend to the Home Missions Council and to the Council of Women for Home Missions the establishment at Mesilla Park, in con- nection with the State Agricultural College of New Mexico, a co-ordinat- ing institute offering courses in religion, etc. (a) For four years’ work and not two, as the Spanish-American desires the higher degree as an evidence of attendance upon a higher institution of learning. (b) This institution should be at the Agricultural School, and so near enough to the border to afford opportunity for students from Old Mexico to attend, and where the climate is warm enough to make less burdensome the economic demands on the Spanish-Americans from the northern part of New Mexico. (c) The nearness of the city of Las Cruces would give the students some advantages. (d) The presence of the International Committee-owned Y.M.C.A. building on the campus would make the operation of such a school less expensive than elsewhere. This building might be leased for a term of years, and dormitory space provided for some of the students, and recitation rooms for courses in religious education and kindred subjects. A man and his wife, both duly qualified, might be able to handle this work for the first year. (e) All courses in the Agricultural College should be open to students of the Training School, and all courses in the Training Schools should be open to other students in the College, credits being interchangeable, and the courses being conducted on a parity. (f) With an increased emphasis on the practical work in agricul- ture, as planned by Prof. Bohannon, new values and worth would be given to the importance of the farmer in the plaza districts of New Mexico. (g) At the end of four years the degree of the State institution would be received, and a special diploma from the Training School, and students would return to service in their own state, whose needs and opportunities would have been constantly developed in their minds during the four years of higher education. 14 (h) A: new building for special religious work might be erected on the Agricultural College campus on a lot leased from the State for a long term of years, and at a low rental, the State having the right to purchase the building after a term of years, or after due notice of one to five years, and at a price to be determined by mutual agreement. (1) The presence of a selected group of Spanish-American boys and girls in the environment of the Agricultural College would give opportunity for interracial relations. The athletic prowess of some of the Spanish-American boys would tend to give them recognition on athletic teams. In case this does not seem feasible, we suggest one of the following alternate policies: (a) Establishment of a separate and independent four-year college, interdenominationally supported and controlled. (Mr. Buch- holz should be asked to present this plan in writing.) (b) Development of a Pan-American University at El Paso. (Mr. Vermilya and Mr. Stowell.) (c) Selection of special colleges already established, and the regular turning to such institutions, by the various denominations, of certain students graduating from the several schools. These students are to be regularly aided during their college courses by the aid of their several Boards of Education. (d) Realignment of present educational programs of several de- nominations involving new distribution of the work on the basis of a separation between the Senior and Junior High Schools, co-education in upper grades of the high school, and an addition of two years of further training, largely religious. (Charles E. Vermilya, New York; George W. Hinman, New York; William E. Hunter, State College, New Mexico, were appointed a committee to take under consideration the recom- mendations concerning establishment of a college.) 15 RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION ON RELIGIOUS FACTORS Adopted by the El Paso Conference December 11-16 We Recommend that the aim of Christian missions among Mexicans and Spanish-speaking Americans in the United States should be the inter- pretation of Christianity in its fullness, the winning of individuals to a personal allegiance to Jesus Christ, the sharing of a spiritually enriched life with a seeking people; the promotion of the reign of good will among individuals and between diverse racial, religious, national, and social groups; and the application of the spirit of Christ to all social and economic situations. Attitude Toward Other Groups We Recommend that in carrying out such a policy our attitude shall be one of sympathy and cooperation with all agencies working toward similar ends. Comity We commend the Interdenominational Council of Spanish-speaking agencies at work in Spanish-speaking communities, and the ideals which have been set up and largely attained in this matter and we urge that efforts already so largely successful in this field be continued. Responsibility of Anglo-American Churches In view of the wide dissemination of our Spanish-speaking populations throughout the country, we particularly urge upon our Anglo-American churches the importance of getting acquainted with the Mexican popula- tions in their respective communities, of bringing Mexican children into their regular American Sunday Schools, finding ways to minister to the spiritual life of the adults, and of leading in promoting economic justice and interracial good will between the groups involved. Leadership Being convinced by our studies that work among Spanish-speaking peoples this side of the border is in urgent need of more adequate leader- ship, we Recommend that: 1. A larger number of potential leaders—pastors, directors of religious education, teachers, and parish workers of other sorts—be sought out and aided in securing desired training. 2. A more careful and intelligent effort be made to secure leaders of deepest spiritual life, higher moral ideals, more thorough preparation and greater capabilities, it being the consensus of opinion that race, nationality, or citizenship should not be determining factors if the above qualities are present in the leaders. 3. That importance of proficiency in the use of the English language be emphasized as a qualification for leadership. 16 4, That denominations interested be urged to provide better facilities for the training of leaders. 5. In order to secure a higher type of leadership in this work and make more efficient the leaders already in service, the various maintaining boards be urged to establish salaries more commensurate with the higher stand- ards of leadership demanded. Local Church Program In view of the limited program carried on in our local church fields, particularly our smaller churches, we earnestly Recommend and urge the putting on of a program similar to the following: I. EpucATIONAL LINEs: ET: (a) That the importance of grading our Sunday School work and of providing teaching in English, for pupils who desire it, be emphasized. (b) That the religious nurture of boys and girls be carried further than the Sunday School and that it include daily vacation Bible Schools, and wherever possible, week-day religious instruc- tions. (c) That special teacher training classes be instituted. SociaL LINES: (a) That classes and clubs of a social character be encouraged, not only in local churches, but in interdenominational groups. (b) That friendly interracial relationship be encouraged through athletic and other group community activities. (c) That literary and social programs be encouraged among the young people. III. We Recommend that the Council call upon all the churches in it iy represented to set aside one day for presenting the problem of cooperation in Latin-American Work and for intercession in behalf of the work. That the services be union services wherever possible; and that, if practicable, Mexicans or workers among Mexicans be invited to speak at these services. FINANCE: We Recommend that the tried plan of: systematic giving be en- couraged—namely, the Every Member Canvass—and that weekly giving and tithing be especially encouraged, and our members trained in this as our only hope of attaining self-support for the work. 17 RECOMMENDATIONS FROM THE COMMISSION ON LITERATURE Adopted by the El Paso Conference December 11-16 I. We urge the Superintendents of all Missions among Spanish-speak- ing people to keep constantly before their people the matter of the circula- tion of religious literature, supplying all workers with catalogs and price lists of available publications, and wherever possible, selling these books di- rectly to those who need them. Approved and Referred to the Interdenominational Council on Spanish-Speaking Work. Il. THAT the Committees on Literature of the permanent Council on Spanish-speaking work be enlarged to include representation from the Home Missions Council and the Council of Women for Home Missions: (a) (b) (c) (d Se (e) To communicate, as far as possible, with workers on the field, concerning the needs as regards publication of literature in Spanish ; To summarize the opinion of these workers, in the way of some concrete recommendations as to what literature is most needed ; To place this information before the proper representatives of the Home Missions Council, the Council of Women for Home Missions, the Committee of Cooperation in Latin- America, and any other organization which may be disposed to use it’ To establish and maintain relations of cooperation with the existing agencies working in the field of literature in Spanish, with a view to furthering in every way possible, the publication of such literature, and the avoidance of unnecessary dupli- cation ; To examine tracts, pamphlets, and books which may appear from time to time, and make recommendations, through evangelical periodicals in Spanish, which will put our people in touch with the agencies furnishing this literature. III. THAT a Committee on Music be appointed, whose duty it shall be (a) (b) (c) To collect from all sources possible the available results in the production of congregational and other religious music in Spanish ; To seek the most effective means possible of putting these re- sults at the disposal of our workers among Spanish-speaking people ; To see that, if possible, arrangements be made whereby phono- graph records of religious music be prepared, through compli- ance with conditions mentioned in the body of this report. 18 Approved and Referred to the Interdenominational Council on Spanish-Speaking Work and the Home Mission Boards. IV. We consider that an annual budget of $1,500.00 should be provided for the maintenance of the Nueva Senda, and Recommend that the Coun- cil take whatever steps it may consider wise for the allocation of this amount among Boards willing to cooperate, and for the general promo- tion of the interests of the paper. Amendments Made to the Report of the Commission on Literature, Which, Being Approved by the Conference, Are Virtually Findings: A. We think that some steps should be taken looking toward coor- dination of efforts in the preparation of textbooks to be used in Teacher Training, and in the awarding of credits for work done. B. We feel that Superintendents of the various Missions among Span- ish-speaking people can aid greatly in the circulation of literature by giv- ing constant emphasis to the matter, and by keeping workers under their direction supplied with catalogues and lists of books and tracts. C. We are informed that a hymn-book suitable for use in Elementary Departments of the Sunday School has been published by Mrs. Effie Nay- lor, in Cuba. The Committee on Cooperation in Latin-America has gath- ered material for the publication of a general Hymnal in Spanish. Also, a Committee of Southern Methodist workers in Cuban and Mexican fields has done considerable work looking toward the preparation of a hymnal for general use in Sunday School and Church services. We feel that steps should be taken to secure the utilization, in a cooperative way, of all material available in the field of congregational and other religious music. D. The Baptist Publishing House of El Paso is doing considerable work in the preparation of Sunday School literature for that denomination. The Quarterly Review, published by Southern Methodist workers in Cuba, is used in a number of schools in our territory. The Notas Explicativas, published by the Committee of Cooperation in Latin America, form a val- uable contribution to literature on the International Uniform Lessons. The Graded Literature, prepared in Spanish through the Primary Depart- ment, and most of the Junior Department, and the lessons for the Interme- diate Department are in process of preparation. These lessons are of the same characters as the Graded Lessons used in most well-organized Eng- lish-speaking Sunday Schools, and constitute a most valuable addition to literature for Sunday School work in Spanish. E. We are pleased to know that the American Bible Society contem- plates the preparation of a Concordance in Spanish, to be published in con- nection with some of its Bibles. This is greatly needed, and we hope it will soon be accomplished. 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