The Times was the first newspaper in the country to challenge the right of the Ku Klux Klan to exist, and the charges by the Times regarding the methods and practices of the Klan in the regulation of public affairs are identical to those under investigation by members of Congress at Washington.
The Times received notes and threats purporting to come from the Klan, but that did not deter this paper in seeking to nip in the bud an organization that threatened the peace and safety of the community. The principles laid down by this paper at the time have been vindicated by similar action in all parts of the country, and the same challenge that we made “why have any set of men the right to become interpreters of the law, or executors of the law unless clothed with powers duly granted by the people,” is now being asked by Congress and the newspapers of the country.
One member of Congress who seems to think that the acts of the Klan are quite proper, and that under their masks they should be free from ??, reproof or punishment, has introduced a resolution on to investigate all secret orders.
This resolution begs the question. We would favor such a course should others interfere with the rights and liberties of the people. But the Klan is the only one which hatches schemes in tis halls and then sallies forth to put them into execution under the cloak of darkness, and the disguises which they wear.
Other orders appear in their uniform, but the members do not black their faces or cover them up. Neither do they interfere with the business of the law with weapons of intimidation and threats.
The creed of the Times is very broad. Let every man enjoy the fullest measure of happiness and liberty as long as it does not interfere with the happiness and liberty of others. Analyzed to its ultimate conclusion, it will do to live by.
From the editorial page of the Wilson Daily Times, John D. Gold, Editor, Oct. 15, 1921
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