In May 1933 at Washington’s Whitelaw Hotel, Mary gathers with colleagues after the Rosenwald Fund’s conference on Black employment falters because white workers and union leaders do not attend. The group reflects on William DuBois’s sobering speech: some industrial gains exist, yet Harlem’s unemployment stands at 64%, with warnings it could reach 90%.

Despondency turns to strategy. Eugene Kinckle Jones argues they must bypass unions and appeal directly to President Roosevelt. Ralph Bunche insists Roosevelt owes inclusion to Black voters, but Walter White doubts their electoral leverage and questions whether Roosevelt, “a son of the South,” would help.

Walter White reveals multiple unanswered attempts to reach the president, even through advisers Louis Howe and Steve Woodburn, reinforcing fears that the New Deal excludes Black Americans. Mary privately wonders if refusing Eleanor Roosevelt’s campaign help cost her influence and a seat at the table.

Eugene then hints at Mary’s friendship with Eleanor, proposing it as a conduit to the White House. The men press Mary with questions, culminating in Walter’s request for access to the president. Mary refuses to confirm or deny the relationship, deflecting for now but recognizing Walter’s persistence will force a decision soon.