Lt. Governor Ernest Vandiver responds to the Calhoun Lawsuit:

"The people of the Sovereign State of Georgia are determined and resolute. There will be no mixing of the races in the schoolrooms of Georgia.

"It is a tragedy that certain irresponsible Negro leaders would by this insensible and foolhardy act, attempt to destroy our separate system of schools. They will fail in their efforts.

"If a federal court orders a Georgia school integrated, it will mean the end of the public schools in the area affected.

"Whether I am a public official or a private citizen, I will fight the mixing of races in Georgia as long as I live.

"Georgia is prepared to meet the challenge, and meet it she will."

The mayor of Atlanta, William B. Hartsfield, also had comments about the suit:

"I am sorry this suit was filed. The mayor and aldermen have nothing to do with the operation of Atlanta schools. However, our city attorney is charged with their representation and will file immediately appropriate defenses."

source: Atlanta Constitution, January 13, 1958