Here's why he organized the march and why it was eventually cancelled:
Why he organized the march:
* Discrimination and segregation: Black Americans faced widespread discrimination and segregation in all areas of life, including employment, housing, and education. This was particularly acute during World War II, as many Black Americans wanted to contribute to the war effort but faced barriers.
* Unequal opportunities in defense industries: The defense industry, booming with the war effort, was largely segregated, denying Black Americans jobs and contributing to their economic hardship.
* Desire for equality and justice: Randolph and other civil rights leaders demanded equal rights and opportunities for Black Americans, arguing that they deserved the same rights and privileges as white Americans.
* Pressure on the government: The threat of a massive march on Washington was intended to put pressure on President Roosevelt to address these issues. The march was seen as a powerful symbol of the Black community's determination to achieve equality.
Why the march was cancelled:
* Executive Order 8802: President Roosevelt, facing pressure from the march and civil rights leaders, issued Executive Order 8802 in June 1941. This order banned discrimination in defense industries based on race, color, creed, or national origin.
* Promise of change: The executive order was a significant victory for the civil rights movement and provided hope for future progress.
* Strategic decision: Randolph and other leaders decided to cancel the march, recognizing the importance of the executive order and believing it was a step in the right direction. They also understood that the march could potentially be exploited by white supremacists to incite violence.
While the march was cancelled, it was a crucial moment in the fight for civil rights. It showed the power of collective action and helped to bring about the first major federal action against racial discrimination in the United States.