Al Lowenstein

Bayard Rustin’s Role Clarified in U.S. Informal Contacts on Rhodesia

Telegram from a U.S. Department of State press briefing clarifying that Bayard Rustin, along with Al Lowenstein, is not a U.S. government representative but is valued for sharing independent observations from Southern Africa. The briefing emphasized that the U.S. maintains informal contacts with individuals traveling to and from Rhodesia but has not shifted official policy. The U.S. continues to oppose Rhodesian military actions in neighboring countries and urges all parties toward reconciliation through dialogue.