Words by Fla's Greatest Governor

Gov. LeRoy Collins denounced the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in Brown v. Board of Education as did essentially every Southern official at that time. He did so because he felt the Court usurped the powers of the states by making there decision. He was not, though, against the basic premise of the decision. And when the Legislature of Florida passed an "interposition" resolution which indicated the intent of the legislature to "interpose" itself between the citizens of Florida and the United States government to prevent what the legislature contended was an illegal intrusion upon the right of the state by imposing integration, Collins did what he could to stand against this. When the resolution came to his desk, he had no power to veto it as it was a resolution. But Collins made sure to leave a note, in his own handwriting, effectuating his belief.

"This concurrent resolution of 'Interposition' crosses the Governor's desk as a matter of routine. I have no authority to veto it. I take this means however to advise the student of government, who may examine this document in the archives of the state in the years to come that the Governor of Florida expressed open and vigorous opposition thereto. I feel that the U. S. Supreme Court has improperly usurped powers reserved to the states under the constitution. I have joined in protesting such and in seeking legal means of avoidance. But if this resolution declaring the decisions of the court to be 'null and void' is to be taken seriously, it is anarchy and rebellion against the nation which must remain 'indevisible under God' if it is to survive. Not only will I not condone 'interposition' as so many has sought me to do, I decry this as an evil thing, whipped up by the demagogues and carried on the hot and erratic winds of passion, prejudice, and hysteria. If history judges me right this day, I want it known that I did my best to avert this blot. If I am judged wrong, then here in my own handwriting and over my signature is the proof of guilt to support my conviction. LeRoy Collins, Governor." May 2, 1957.