. . "Memphis (Tenn.)" . . "Southern Regional Council, Atlanta, Ga." . . . . . . . . . "Memphis"@en . "In view of its heavy negro population and its deep south location, the progress of memphis toward the elimination of race discrimination is remarkable. Conspicuous, though still token, strides toward desegregation and equality in schools and employment have been made. Greater progress has been seen in the desegregation of public accommodations. A dozen negroes sit on official boards or hold other responsible positions in the city government. Several basic factors contribute to the forward momentum of desegregation in memphis. The large negro vote tends to liberalize all decisions by public officials in matters affecting negroes. The high caliber of leaders in the white community who are active in the movement is another positive force. Another major factor is the strong unity within the negro community. The memphis branch of the naacp boasts the largest membership in any southern city. Perhaps the strongest element of unity in memphis is the committee on community relations. This biracial agency includes strong representations from the chamber of commerce, churches, business and professional groups, civic organizations, the urban league, and the naacp. A rigid police force policy largely and favorably identified with the civil rights advance and two local newspapers which follow a policy of cooperation and encouragement in the campaign are other positive factors."@en . . . . .