Technology invades the modern world

Chapter 168 The Anger of Black People (5k)

Martin Luther King Jr. felt the effects of the alcohol wear off immediately.

The White House is the biggest proof of racial discrimination. The White House should be renamed. Why should the White House be called the White House and not the Black House? Why didn't I think of that before?

“Most famous palaces in the world, such as Buckingham Palace, the Kremlin, the Élysée Palace, and the Forbidden City, are either named after people or based on their meanings. Only the White House is named after a color,” Lin Ran said.

Martin Luther King Jr. listened intently, nodding repeatedly: "Professor, what you said is excellent."

The White House was originally called the Presidential Palace. Does it have to be called the White House just because it has white exterior walls?

It's perfectly normal for Black people to be sensitive.

Because President Roosevelt renamed the White House in 1901 at the beginning of the 20th century, racist poems such as "The Negro in the White House" soon appeared on the market, and a large part of the labor force that built the White House came from black slaves.

To be honest, aside from the offensive use of the word "nigger" throughout the poem, the poem itself is practically a prophet, perfectly predicting the White House after the 2008 election.

(The full text of "Niggers in the White House," a poem consisting of 14 quatrains rhyming in ABCB.)

Even before Lin Ran mentioned it, Martin Luther King Jr. hadn't realized that this was pure racial discrimination.
Yes, why should the White House be called "White"?

White people named the White House the White House and ridiculed Black people, constantly calling us "niggers."

"Dr. King, it doesn't matter whether the White House can actually be renamed."

The key is that your movement needs a more accessible and catchy slogan that represents your goals and can quickly spread among your supporters.

At rallies, you use slogans to unite people, and then gradually introduce more specific demands, such as the passage of civil rights legislation or other bills.

In the process of public opinion dissemination and the shaping of ideas, it is your demand that the White House be renamed, and the claim that calling the White House "White" is racially discriminatory can become your propaganda slogan.

Such a concept, due to its sensational effect, will spread rapidly throughout the country.

"When any media outlet reports on this, they will naturally spread your full demands," Lin Ran added.

Martin Luther King Jr. has been shocked countless times today.

From reading articles discussing systemic oppression, to the White House's specific tactics for renaming itself, and then to analyzing the benefits of this tactic from a theoretical perspective.

At this moment, Martin Luther King Jr. was far more shocked than Nixon had been when he consulted Lin Ran.

As a person living in the Internet age, Lin Ran is undoubtedly a master of public opinion dissemination in this era.

No one in this era understands better than Lin Ran how to create an element and spread it as quickly as possible.

"Professor, what you said is excellent." Martin Luther King Jr. had already started taking out his notebook to write down Lin Ran's words.

“Actually, I think renaming it Kennedy Palace would be very appropriate, as it would be a perfect tribute to President Kennedy,” Lin Ran said.

After receiving some pointers at the black bar, Lin Ran felt he had taught Martin Luther King Jr. enough for the day.

As he headed to the parking lot, a young Black man in the darkness reminded him:

“Professor, Director Hoover asked me to remind you that you have overstepped your bounds.”

Lin Ran looked up at him and asked, "You work for Hoover?"

The young Black man didn't answer: "Chief Hoover told me to remind you not to associate with people like Martin Luther King Jr. And don't even think about getting involved in any civil rights movement."

Lin Ran walked to his car without comment, then smiled at the young man without saying a word, thinking to himself, "Hu Fu, you've already found your way to death!"
Why should I interfere with everything, including my meeting with Martin Luther King Jr.? Preventing me from causing trouble is the ultimate way to commit suicide.

Near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.

This place is not only the site of the "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963, but also a symbolic landmark of the civil rights movement.

Martin Luther King Jr.'s event was held here.

With its appeal, at this sensitive time, despite the biting cold in Washington, D.C., temperatures hovering around -5 degrees Celsius, and a thin layer of snow covering the National Mall, the temporary podium stood out conspicuously against the snow, and a large number of people from Washington, D.C. and the surrounding area still gathered at the scene.

Martin Luther King Jr., dressed in a dark coat, with a scarf tightly wrapped around his neck and a black top hat, stood on the podium.

His expression was firm, and when he scanned the crowd, his eyes revealed hope and determination. His hands gripped the edge of the podium tightly.

The crowd included people from different social classes, such as Black people, white supporters, students, and workers.

Their expressions varied; some were full of anticipation, while others were extremely excited.

Police and National Guard members, dressed in heavy uniforms, maintained order on the perimeter. Their expressions were serious, their eyes alert, ready to respond to any potential conflict.

"Friends, we gather here today not just for warmth in the cold, but for justice in our hearts. We want to ask a question: Why is the White House called the White House? Does this name inadvertently remind us that the center of power in this country is still a symbol of white dominance?"

During his speech, Martin Luther King Jr. reviewed the history of the White House, pointing out that it was built by slave labor.

The word "white" not only represents a color, but also symbolizes the past of racial segregation.

"The walls of the White House are white, but its foundation is soaked in the blood and sweat of Black people. We cannot ignore this fact."

"President Kennedy defended equality with his life, and his spirit should continue in this building."

"Let us work together to ensure that the center of power in this country is no longer named after a color, but after freedom, equality, and justice! Let us shout: Why is the White House called White? Until justice comes!"

The supporters present were clearly moved; they felt inspired and hopeful.

When Martin Luther King Jr. uttered the poem "The Negro in the White House," the young Black people present showed expressions of anger.

White supremacists outside the venue were outraged when they heard Martin Luther King Jr. call to rename the White House to Kennedy Palace, seeing it as an attack on American tradition.

They attempted to disrupt the event but were stopped by security personnel.

After the rally ended, supporters and opponents clashed violently at the scene.

Civil rights organizations such as the Southern Christian Leaders Conference and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) expressed their support, seeing it as a symbolic call for equality.

"Dr. Kim hit the nail on the head," said the SCLC leader.

The event ignited the enthusiasm of civil rights supporters.

This slogan quickly spread throughout the country, igniting a nationwide media frenzy.

During its spread, the slogan was further simplified to: Why called white.

The media rushed to report on it.
The New York Times: "Dr. King's call to rename the White House sparks national debate," the report said, quoting Martin Luther King Jr.: "The name of the White House is a symbol, a symbol of the barriers we must break down."

The Washington Post, however, held reservations about the name change, stating that "real change lies in the law, not the name."

Southern media outlets, including conservative newspapers like The Atlanta Journal-Conference, launched a fierce critique, stating that "Dr. King's proposal is an insult to tradition and will exacerbate the antagonism between the two sides."

Within the Democratic Party, opinions are divided, with some members supporting the name change while others worry about exacerbating tensions.

Republicans unanimously opposed and criticized it, calling it a "provocation."

President Lyndon Johnson, through a spokesperson, stated that he respects civil rights demands, but that a name change requires broad consensus.

In an interview, Martin Luther King Jr. said, "The professor gave me a lot of inspiration. If it weren't for the professor, I wouldn't have realized that the White House itself is a symbol of white supremacy."

That's why white supporters, led by the KKK, reacted so strongly to my demands this time.

Clearly, we've found the crux of the problem.

"Of course, the professor has insights beyond ordinary people. He can clearly see the essence of the problem and propose solutions. The fact that the White House is called the White House is an oppression of ethnic minorities is something that he reminded me of, and that's why I noticed it."

Inside the White House office, the fireplace was radiating warmth.

Lyndon Johnson and Lin Ran sat facing each other around the desk.

Lin Ran knew very well why the other party had sought him out.

The Senate has approved his nomination as NASA administrator by a margin of 60 to 40.

Clearly, some Democratic legislators from southern states were dissatisfied with his recent erratic behavior and therefore did not vote in favor. Meanwhile, some Republican legislators who supported him, perhaps because of his views, or perhaps because of the influence of Morgan and Rockefeller, voted in favor.

Lyndon Johnson leaned forward, his gaze fixed on Lin Ran, the cigar in his hand emitting smoke: "Randolph, congratulations on becoming the director of NASA. I've always known you're an outstanding engineer, and I believe you'll be able to lead NASA to victory after victory, just as you've said."

That's why I'm pushing for you to be NASA's administrator, because you can bring us victory.

Not only do I believe this, but the Americans believe it too.

Lin Ran said, "I will definitely lead the American people to the moon."

Lin Ran thought to himself, "If I don't participate in the entire Apollo program, how can I directly replicate the Apollo moon landing sixty years later?"
Furthermore, he was well aware that Lyndon Johnson had put him in this position because he had helped Johnson save political resources.

Indeed, these positions in Washington, whether they are members of Congress or White House advisors and assistants, come at a price; they are all part of the president's resources.

He got the job done without expending any resources, and the resources saved could be used by Lyndon Johnson to make deals and help him secure the position of NASA administrator.

For example, if Lin Ran is to sit in this position, James Webber needs to find a place, a place no less important than this position.

If Robert Kennedy were to resign voluntarily, he would have to offer the other party something in return. This "something in return" is not monetary, but rather political resources, such as a seat in Congress or an advisory position.

However, Lin Ran did not expect that he would become the director of NASA in just five years.

“Randolph, I called you here today not to discuss technical details. I want to talk to you about something bigger, about America’s future.”

Lin Ran slightly adjusted his posture. He knew what the other party wanted to say, most likely about the renaming of the White House, or more accurately, the vigorous civil rights movement behind the renaming of the White House.

"Mr. President, it is an honor to serve you. What do you mean by 'bigger things'?"

Johnson stood up, walked to the window, his back to Lin Ran, and spoke in a deep, powerful voice:
"The future of America, Randolph, is not only in space, but also in our streets, in our schools, and in the hearts of every American."

You know, the Civil Rights Act is about to pass, but this is just the beginning. I want this country to see that minorities can not only participate, but also lead.

Lin Ran nodded and said, "Of course, I also expressed my opinion at the hearing."

Johnson continued, "Randolph, but you shouldn't give Dr. King advice."

Lin Ran said, "I just mentioned it casually, I didn't expect him to take it seriously."

Johnson sneered, "Professor, I don't believe you just said that offhand."

Can something just casually mentioned have such a powerful effect?
Now, from newspapers to television to the general public, everyone is discussing renaming the White House.

"The Negro in the White House" became clear evidence of America's past racism, fueling calls to rename the White House and exacerbating national unrest.

Lin Ran said, "Well, it's normal for me, as a member of a minority group, to naturally sympathize with and support the civil rights movement, right?"

Furthermore, I'm about to return to Redstone Base, and I don't have time to think about how to make this country more equitable.

Lyndon Johnson said in a softened tone, "Professor, I didn't mean to criticize you."

I'm just saying, shouldn't you consult me ​​before making this kind of suggestion next time?
I'm under a lot of pressure now because the president can decide whether or not to change the name.

The White House is the official residence and property of the President's executive branch, and is directly managed by the President. In 1901, Theodore Roosevelt renamed it the "White House" by executive order without congressional approval.

"If I change my name, conservatives will accuse me of going against tradition, which will be detrimental to my election campaign."

If I don't change my name, minorities will think my advocacy for civil rights is fake, a ploy to quell the unrest following President Kennedy's death, which will also affect my election prospects.

Lin Ran suddenly realized, "So that's what you meant, kid."

But thinking about it, it makes sense; it's easy to offend a group of people no matter what.

The Civil Rights Act itself has influenced conservative voters, and renaming the White House will further influence some moderately conservative voters. People may think that you are being a bit too extreme.

It's just a name, is it really that big of a deal?

If we don't change it, the Black community has already made the slogan "Why is the White House called White?" so loud and deeply ingrained in people's minds that not changing it will only offend more people.

Understanding the unspoken meaning, Lin Ran said, "Why not just push it to Congress and let them vote on it?"

Lyndon Johnson said, "This is an executive matter and doesn't require congressional approval."

Lin Ran explained, "It's an administrative matter, but you can't change the name every time a new president comes in."

When you were there, it was called Kennedy Palace; after the Republicans came to power, it was renamed the White House.

If the White House changes its name, it means the Democratic Party has won; if the White House doesn't change its name, it means the Republican Party has won.

What if a future president were to rename the White House after himself? Wouldn't that create chaos?

Old T is really capable of doing this.

If America had kept changing the name of the White House sixty years ago, Old Trump would definitely have named the White House after himself, or even sold the naming rights to a company and made a fortune.

"Besides, changing the name doesn't involve updating the law. For example, do the clauses in the law that mention the White House also need to be changed? Doesn't that require Congressional approval?" Lin Ran continued to ask.

Lyndon Johnson nodded and said, "That's right, Professor, you're the one who has the solution."

The section of the America Code concerning federal property management needs to be revised.

Lin Ran continued, "Shouldn't we have a hearing to discuss the symbolic significance of the White House itself?"
The replacement of signage and badges on various items inside the White House involves the federal budget and requires a special grant. Shouldn't Congress review this as well?
In short, there are many ways to drag this out, but the best way is to pass it on to Congress.

I believe conservative lawmakers will be very happy; if it weren't for the president deciding whether to change the White House's name, they would have had the opportunity to block it.

Lyndon Johnson nodded and said, "Professor, I understand."

The appointment of a minority member to a senior White House position is a historic moment, and the White House held a special appointment ceremony which was broadcast live on television.

After all, Lin Ran, who serves as the bureau chief, is a figure of great interest.

The appointment ceremony was held in the White House Rose Garden. The weather was bad; the roses weren't in bloom, and it was a bit chilly.

The Stars and Stripes and NASA flags were placed in front of the podium.

Media reporters, politicians, NASA officials, and representatives of ethnic minorities made the atmosphere here quite lively.

The atmosphere was solemn yet full of anticipation.

Walter Rostow stood at the podium, his tone solemn: "Ladies and gentlemen, please be quiet. Today we are here to witness the formal appointment of Professor Randolph Lin as NASA Administrator. Please welcome President Lyndon Johnson."

President Johnson walked confidently out of the White House, waving and smiling.

Lin Ran followed closely behind, his expression serious.

The crowd applauded in response.

Lyndon Johnson stood at the front of the stage, his gaze sweeping across the audience, his voice booming:

"Today is a day to remember for America. We have taken an important step on the path of space exploration and social progress."

Professor Randolph Lin, an outstanding mathematician, engineer, and philosopher, will become NASA's first minority administrator.

This is not only an affirmation of his talent, but also a commitment to diversity and fairness in America.

He then turned to Lin Ran and said, "Randolph, you stand here, representing the dreams of countless American minorities."

I believe that under your leadership, NASA will not only win the space race, but will also become an institution that all people of the free side can be proud of.

"Today, we have shown the world the true strength of America: a nation where diverse cultures and talents converge. Let us join hands to win space and win the future!"

As Lin Ran listened, he thought that America would be even more diverse, more diverse than you could imagine. He observed the expressions of the guests in the audience and immediately spotted Hoover, who was expressionless.

　Another 10,000-word update, and I'm also asking for monthly votes!

　　
　
(End of this chapter)