Garrison Voted Once!
December 18, 1834
In a letter addressed to “the Colored Inhabitants of Boston”, Garrison writes against advertisements he had seen which urged them to “rally on the side of the Whigs”. He notes that prior to the election “fully attended meetings” among colored voters passed resolutions in favor of Whigs. He is confident that when they voted for Whigs, their motives were better than those actuated by white Whig supporters. “..you meant to act wisely for yourselves, and indirectly at least, to advance that sacred cause which we deem to be paramount to all others … I think you committed an error — I think you were misled, unintentionally, by those who you have every reason to believe are truly your well-wishers…” He then indicates that he voted for Amasa Walker “on the ground of humanity, justice, benevolence and religion; and I think, as you valued your welfare, he ought to have received your votes…” 1