Kollin White

Alabama Clergymen’s Letter Reading Comprehension and Rhetorical Analysis

August 26, 2020

1. The clergymen write with a sense of security as they recognize Alabama’s racial

problems and urge the reader to maintain peace during this troubling time. 

2. The clergy write to the citizens of Birmingham, Alabama, with the intention of the letter

to reach the Negro community.

3. With the increased forbearance and a willingness to face facts, “responsible citizens”

decide to take on the problems which caused racial friction.

4. Some of the “Negro citizens directed and led in part by outsiders” are very impatient

when it comes to their hopes of becoming a reality. 

5. The “outsiders” are activists who are not from Birmingham. The clergy is indirectly

referring to King. Their suggestion implies that “outsiders” should not be involved when

it pertains to Birmingham politics.

6. The clergy acknowledges the “other side” feelings when they “recognize the natural

impatience of people who feel that their hopes are slow in being realized” (paragraph 3).

Moreover, the clergy understands these people’s frustration and unrest because of the

racial tensions on the rise, not just in Alabama but also in the United States.

7. The purpose of the clergymen’s letter is not only to question the protests but also to

provide a recommendation to the Negro community in which they fight their battles in

the courts and not on the streets. Ultimately the clergymen are calling for unity within the

Birmingham community.

8. -The negro community should withdraw from protesting.

-The demonstrations are unwise and untimely.

-The citizens should appeal to the principles of law and order and common sense.