Rogers, Bruce 1917-04-09

Description:	Letter from Eugene V. Debs, 4/9/1917. Writes that he was surprised by Rogers letter. Informs Rogers that he has made appeals on behalf of the victims of the Everett, Washington conflict in almost every speech he has given, in articles for the NATIONAL RIP-SAW, and in every other way that he knew how. Says that just because these victims were associated with the Industrial Workers of the World that he was not slow to help them. Writes that even though he does not feel kindly towards some of the members of the Industrial Workers of the World that he has never in a single instance refused to support them. Tells Rogers that he helped the Industrial Workers of the World during the Lawrence Strike, the Paterson Strike, and the Mesabi Range Strike. Suggests that if Rogers needs proof of his support all that he has to do is ask Joseph Ettor, Arturo Giovannitti, or Carlo Tresca. Remarks that he has even found himself criticized in socialist circles for telling other socialists that the Mesabi Range Strike was not being supported because it was led by the Industrial Workers of the World. Writes that although Rogers thinks that he is preventing himself from becoming involved in the Revolutions physical phenomena that he challenges Rogers to name a single instance where the Industrial Workers of the World was involved in a struggle that he did not encourage and support. Tells Rogers that he has been trying to keep up with all of the demands placed upon him for years and has been on the verge of breakdown from overwork several times. Informs Rogers that I have given my life to the working class and its struggles drop by drop, and almost to the last atom of my strength, and if this is not enough to satisfy you then I have absolutely nothing more to offer or to give.
Origin:	1917-04-09
Source:	http://indstate.contentdm.oclc.org/cdm/ref/collection/evdc/id/8391
Collection:	Eugene V. Debs Correspondence
Subjects:	Industrial Workers of the World Strikes National Rip-Saw Famous Hoosiers Labor

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