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* - - a, * e wee ¢ . Memorandum to Mr. Boardman Re: Paul Leroy Robeson 1000-12304 With reference to his passport case, he charges that State Department's refusal to grant him a passport is arbitrary. He claims there is no evidence to support Government charges and jalleges his passport refusal is based upon his concern for Negro ‘rights. In general, he attempts to put across point that his support of Soviet Union and Afro-Asian policy concerning colonial liberation movement and racial equality has been misinterpreted as Un-American activity. He frequently criticizes the State Department and United States Government concerning both domestic and foreign policy in this regard. He continuously emphasizes the alleged lack of racial discrimination in Europeem and Asian countries as contrasted to the United States. At one point Robeson expresses his conviction in scientific socialism as an advancement to a higher stage of life and as being superior to “capitalistic imperialism." He does not elaborate further on this matter; however, he does comment at one point about the "new China" (Red China) in a favorable light and also emphasizes that the “communists of the world denounce racism." Robeson admits he has never hesitated to assoclate with nonconformists and radicals, and in this regard points out his long association with Ben Davis, current national CP functionary. He points ¢ the mutual interest of himself and Davis in regard to the fight for Negro freedom. He goes on to describe the Smith Act convictions as unconstitutional and likewise denounces the Walter-McCarran Act. The majority of Robeson's comments deal with his views concerning Negro inequality in the United States. He denounces segregation and its advocates. He proposes coordinated mass Negro actior built around strong Negro leadership to cope with the current crisis. He suggests a central fund, anmcerted Negro support of already existent organizations such as National Assoclation for the Advancement of Colored People, and the exertion of influence of the Negro in labor unions. ; In coneluding, Robeson compliments the Soviet Union-on the launching of the Sputnik and describes it as a step toward world peace. ¥