DePorres Club Civic Relations
“Father Markoe told us that the backfire we are experiencing is a good sign, and a healthy sign because it indicates we are getting known. We may be accused of being radical, but we are not to let this bother us. We have to stick by what is right.” -- DePorres Club Member Ola McCraney, March 8, 1948 (Markoe Archive, B7, F5)
The DePorres Club was pioneering in its approach and impact in confronting racism and discrimination within Omaha throughout the 1950s. The club's work for racial justice attracted pushback from people who disagreed with its methods and stance. This pushback can be observed through the Club's relationships with national and local government as well as with local newspapers, businesses (see: DePorres Club Sit-Ins & Boycotts), and educational institutions.