EXCERPT...
Mr. Young: I can only state that in being interviewed and being
asked questions, that I hope that I will be allowed to react fully
to those questions, and not be expected to react only in such a man-
ner that this committee may desire me. In other words, I might have
answers you might not like. You called me here to testify ; I am pre-
pared to testify, but, I would like to know from you if I shall be
allowed to respond to your questions fully and in my own way.
Mr. Tavenner. I have no objection to your answers, if they are
responsive to the questions.
Mr. Young. I will respond.
Mr. Tavenner. But I desire to ask you the question which I have
asked other witnesses: Are you now a member of the Communist
Party ?
Mr. Young. I refuse to answer that question, relying upon my rights
under the fifth amendment, and, in light of the fact that an answer
to such a question, before such a committee, would be, in my opinion,
a violation of my rights under the first amendment, which provides
for freedom of speech, sanctity and privacy of political beliefs and
associates, and, further, since I have no purpose of being here as a
stool pigeon, I am not prepared to give any information on any of
my associates or political thoughts.
Mr. Tavenner. Have you been a member of the Communist Party ?
Mr. Young. For the same reason, I refuse to answer that ques-
tion.
Mr. Tavenner. You told us you were the executive secretary of the
National Negro Congress
Mr. Young. That word is "Negro," not "Niggra."
Mr. Tavenner. I said, "Negro." I think you are mistaken.
Mr. Young. I hope I am. Speak more clearly.
JNIr. Wood. I will appreciate it if you will not argue with counsel.
Mr. Young. It isn't my purpose to argue. As a Negro, I resent the
slurring of the name of my race.
CONTINUED...
Communism in the Detroit Area (Congressional Hearings)
In 1968, he became the first African American to serve on the Democratic National Committee.
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