Chapter 35

Summary

• The protagonist, named Mary, steps off a train at Union Station in Washington D.C., on her way to accept a federal position.
• Mary had been advocated for by Eleanor, who sent the influential Miss Josephine Roche to represent her at the NAACP convention in her stead. Impressed by Mary's speech, Roche recommended her for a position in the National Youth Administration (NYA).
• Mary is excited for her new role, where she'll have input into federal programs that focus on colored youth and will ensure New Deal monies are directed into Black communities.
• She struggles to find a taxi due to the segregation and arrives late to her meeting with the rest of the NYA council.
• After mistakenly entering the wrong room and being confronted by the white men inside, she finds the correct room and is warmly welcomed by Aubrey Williams, the executive director of the NYA.
• Mary also recognizes Miss Roche, and Dr. Mordecai Johnson, the first Black president of Howard University, who would also be serving as an adviser.
• Williams shares his vision with Mary and Mordecai, emphasizing the plan to appoint colored state directors, particularly in the South. He also shares the news of an appointment, Lyndon B. Johnson, who he believes will be dedicated to serving all youth.
• Mary and Mordecai share their own ideas, with Mary wanting to work with the poorest and most vulnerable children, while Mordecai expresses the need for increased federal support for Black colleges and universities.
• As the meeting concludes, Williams mentions reviewing their progress in biannual meetings. However, Mary is determined to create a larger role for herself in the NYA.