Segregation, racism, and persecution were still highly prominent in the South and African American's were continuously migrating to the "tolerant north" in hopes of creating a safe life where they could freely exercise civil liberties in peace. Hermione's heart ached for those that were still living as glorified slaves or being murdered by the Klan, knowing that the civil rights movement was several decades away. Many were inhabiting New York City, and thus there were areas were less economically enriched than others, because, although the north was more tolerant, it didn't mean they weren't racist. In short, many people went without medical attention.