Opposition
During World War II, when segregation was at its height, many citizens did not want African Americans to become pilots. There was a common discontent among the people when the Civilian Pilot Training Program was announced. Members of both races opposed the Tuskegee Program. Whites opposed the plan simply because they thought themselves to be inferior, many also believed whites to be more skilled at flying. African Americans opposed the plan because it allowed for segregation at a time when they were trying to establish their civil rights. Within the program, military officials often times were racist and held an attitude of inferiority.
- According to Roger McGrath (photoed bottom left), Chronicles Magazine author, the creation of the Tuskegee Airmen group was not intended as a move to desegregate but instead a political strategy for President Franklin D. Roosevelt. There was a growing “urban black community” in which Roosevelt wanted to ensure votes. Thus, he capitalized on this political opportunity by showcasing the Tuskegee Airmen.
- Charles Lindbergh (photoed bottom right), writing in Readers' Digest, called aviation a "tool specially shaped for Western hands; . . . one of those priceless possessions which permit the White race to live at all in a pressing sea of Yellow, Black, and Brown."
- “You, people. Don’t you know how bad we treat you, people? Serving your country? This ain’t your country. Your country is full of apes and gorillas, malaria, missionaries…” –Major Sherman Joy referring to the Tuskegee Airmen