The Call for an Anti-Chinese Convention in Seattle
A local organizer proposes a massive, territory-wide assembly at Frye’s Opera House to coordinate the systematic removal of Chinese residents.
I think the time has come for the intelligent action of patriotic, law-abiding citizens to aid in the prevention of the coming of the Chinese to this country, but by peaceable means and legal methods to secure their removal from our midst. To this end, it is important now that the sentiment of our people be calmly, clearly and forcibly expressed so that the hands of the Representatives in Congress and Senators friendly to this purpose may be strengthened. I would suggest that a convention be held in Frye's Opera House in this city on or about March 27th, to which delegates be invited representative of the Territory at large and of the different City Governments, Boards of Trade and Chambers of Commerce. The delegates from the Territory to be selected five from each county by the County Commissioners. Immediate action is of the utmost importance. Respectfully yours, Thomas T. Minor.
“I think the time has come for the intelligent action of patriotic, law-abiding citizens... to secure their removal from our midst.”
This letter, authored by a future mayor of Seattle, highlights the organized political infrastructure behind the anti-Chinese expulsion movement of the 1880s. It illustrates how civic leaders utilized 'legal methods' and formal conventions to codify xenophobia, a grim precursor to the violent forced expulsions that would take place in Seattle the following year.
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