Statement by Helen Gahagan Douglas: Defending American Principles and Civil Liberties, 1947-11-04

Helen Gahagan Douglas speaks out against the actions of the Un-American Activities Committee, stating that their hearings are unjust and violate individual rights. She believes that combating communism should focus on addressing poverty and ignorance, not through hysteria or limiting free speech. Douglas criticizes the Committee for unfairly condemning the motion picture industry and interfering with creative freedom. She argues that the Committee's actions give the impression that communism is stronger than it actually is, and that extreme measures are not necessary to combat it. Douglas concludes by quoting a resolution from the House of Bishops urging caution in fighting communism and protecting freedom of conscience.