Chapter 31

Summary

• The narrative takes place in Washington D.C., April 28, 1934, centered around a character named Mary who is attempting to engage President Roosevelt on the issue of lynchings, with Eleanor (Roosevelt's wife) supporting their cause.
• Mary is in conversation with three young men, Robert Vann, Eugene Kinckle Jones and Robert Weaver, all of whom appear to have been appointed to federal positions under the Roosevelt administration.
• They discuss their experiences in the position, with Robert Vann and Eugene expressing frustration over having roles in name only, and lack of cooperation from white colleagues.
• Robert Weaver, on the other hand, experiences a different, more positive work experience and has seen progress being made under his superior, Mr. Foreman.
• Mary suggests drafting a thank you letter to President Roosevelt as a way to encourage further progress. The men, especially Robert Vann, are skeptical of the idea given their experience in the administration.
• However, Robert Vann, despite his reluctance to sign the letter, suggests making it public to garner better impact.
• The conversation touches upon political loyalties as well, with Robert Vann noting that Mary hasn't fully embraced the Democratic Party and it needs to be reflected in the tone of the letter.
• While they are drafting their letter, Mary receives a call from Eleanor who warns her not to make the letter too exuberant as Franklin Roosevelt might not meet with Walter White, head of the NAACP, as they had hoped.
• Mary suggests tricking President Roosevelt into an impromptu meeting with Walter White, to which Eleanor agrees.