June 4, 1962 - Governor Nelson Rockefeller replied today to a Democratic challenge on civil rights and issued one to President Kennedy in return. In a commencement address at Spelman College in Georgia, he cited aid to minorities by his family, himself, and his Republican administration in New York. The predominantly Negro institution is named for his maternal grandmother and has received substantial aid from the Rockefellers. The Governor then attacked politicians who pay homage to civil rights at election time, “but are found wanting in the courage, the profound and true belief that must back promises with action.” His remarks were taken as a reply to John M. Bailey, the Democratic National Chairman, who accused Mr. Rockefeller last week of dragging his feet on the rights issue.
