How did Elenore Roosevelt influence racial politics during the Roosevelt adrninstation?

Answer 1

By all accounts, Eleanor Roosevelt was a passionate advocate for greater equality for black Americans. She had a radio program of her own, which she sometimes used to discuss the issues of the day, and she did not shy away from the occasional controversy. She also at times used her newspaper column in the same way. For example, she praised talented black entertainers (such as vocalist Marian Anderson), as well as black scholars and professionals, challenging some of the stereotypes of her era about black contributions to society. When a segregated venue in Washington DC refused to allow Marian Anderson to perform, Eleanor used her influence to call attention to this bigotry, and after another venue was arranged for the concert, Eleanor encouraged (some say pressured) radio stations and networks to carry it live, which many did, giving Ms. Anderson a national audience she might not have had.

But more importantly, she had the ear of President Roosevelt, and used that relationship to speak out for causes she believed in, such as better treatment for black members of the military: it was she who promoted the cause of a group of black aviators later known as the "Tuskegee Airmen," and thanks to her efforts, these skilled professionals received the opportunity to fly just like their white counterparts did (under segregation, even the most highly trained black servicemen, like the Tuskegee Airmen, were being relegated to menial jobs like janitors, until Eleanor spoke out). She also was good friends with the famous black educator Mary McLeod Bethune, and frequently worked on committees that advanced educational opportunities for people of color (who were then called "Negroes"). Unfortunately, America was still segregated and Eleanor was unable to change that. But she became known as a champion for equal rights, and within the confines of her society, she did what she could to make a difference.