37. Defend Rights “By Any and All Honorable and Legal Means”
The Deacons had strict membership requirements. They accepted only male citizens 21 or older, preferably married, and with prior military experience. They refused to take on those with a reputation for “hotheadedness”, demanded discipline in the face of provocation, and a commitment to act only in self-defense.
Their charter explained that the goal was “the defense of civil rights, property rights, and personal rights … by any and all honorable and legal means to the end that justice may be obtained“. Every Deacon had to pledge his life to the defense of justice, civil rights activists, and the people of their community.