(RELIGION) Membership card in the Development of Our Own a g

Sale 2663 - Lot 380

Unsold

Estimate: $ 600 - $ 900

(RELIGION.) Membership card in the "Development of Our Own," a group with ties to both war-era Japan and the Nation of Islam. Printed card, 2¼ x 3¾ inches; moderate wear; completed in manuscript with the name and address of a Detroit member. Detroit, MI, early 1940s

Set Alert for Similar Items

Additional Details

"The Development of Our Own" was a controversial Detroit-based organization. Two key figures were Pearl Sherrod (born 1896), an African American woman who had been an early member of the Nation of Islam; and her husband Satokata Takahashi (1870-1954), a Japanese national. His initial goal was apparently to create loyalty to Japan among the African-American community ahead of the expected military conflict. After he was deported to Japan in 1934, Pearl continued as leader of Development of Our Own, bringing a more international feminist perspective.

This membership card lists the group's five "Guiding Principles," which appear neither controversial nor subversive. Number 1: "To act in accordance with God's will: Thus; there is nothing to fear but God." Number 4: "To be a part of our community and our Country; less talk, more action and self sacrifice are necessary; If a Group is to act together: By giving in you gain: By surrendering you win." We trace no other materials from this somewhat mysterious group at auction.