Mukoli

Righting the Ship

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The stunning coalition had held together. Over the course of 18 months, after three major presentations before the United Nations, and debate in every country of the world, the planet was mere days from deciding whether to pursue the ambitious and audacious plan to undo the tilt in the Earth’s axis and position it for continuous, consistent year-round exposure to the sun.

When it was first proposed, the idea drew everything from smirks to guffaws, with most people convinced it was a joke. As scientists investigated the feasibility, impacts, and trade-offs, it took on a life of its own. Rarely does support mount so rapidly for a proposal this monumental.

A year and a half ago, the United States of America, European Union, Russian Republic, China, Australia, South American Alliance, and African Union came together to examine the key issues in the extraordinary concept. Scientists joined together to analyze it from every angle to see if it had any merit. To everyone’s surprise, it far surpassed expectations.

The General Assembly adjourned for lunch after hearing the final scientific stamp of approval. Cora Walker and Jerome Barris walked to the cafeteria together. Cora’s hip was bothering her again, so they fell behind the others while they talked.

“I can’t help but feel the weight of this decision on our shoulders,” she said.

Jerome said, “I agree. This is momentous. But we’ve been thorough and the arguments for it continue to build.”

“Yes, certainly, but the risks seem so great. We’ve come so far in getting nations of this planet to work together. We could blow it all through our hubris.”

“But remember what the last speaker said. The greatest risk is to feasibility – the plan might not work at all. If it does work, the risk of unanticipated consequences is extremely low.”

As Cora prepared to respond, Marcus Booker ran up to them, grabbed Jerome’s arm and spoke urgently, “I have to talk to you two. There’s no way we can go forward with this.”

Jerome said, “Marcus, come sit with us and tell us what’s on your mind. I’m leaning towards supporting the proposal, but we’ll certainly listen to you.”

Cora added, “Yes, please join us.”

As they entered the cafeteria, the three found a table and placed their orders electronically. Cora noticed that Marcus’ colleagues from the African Union appeared to be fanning out to get to as many delegates as possible to influence them before the afternoon’s final debate and vote.

Cora represented the United States and Jerome was from the European Union. They were among the longest-serving delegates, so they were perceived to be among the more influential members, although their legal authority was no greater than others.

Robots arrived with their lunches within a few minutes. The room was abuzz with the topic the entire world was talking about, although some groups used the time to take a break from it and decompress.

Marcus wasted no time with pleasantries. “As you two know, the African continent has benefitted greatly from all the progress of the last two centuries. We harness solar, wind, and fusion power for all our needs, desalinization and cloud farming provide us with consistent water supplies, and the use of equity quotients has put us on track for more balanced worldwide economies. And we have been at peace longer than any other continent.”

Cora shifted in her seat. “You’re right, the world has made tremendous progress.”

Marcus continued, “Yes, definitely. But I think we’ve let it go to our heads. We’ve been able to achieve so much and now we’re putting it all at risk with this wild idea to tamper with nature on an astronomical basis.”

Jerome leaned forward, “I wouldn’t exactly call it wild. There’s never been a proposal as thoroughly researched and vetted as this one. You realize we have to do something to stop the seasonal and migratory shifts of populations on the planet, don’t you?”

Marcus wrinkled his face, “Of course, these shifts of hordes of people at once are way out of control. I agree. But there has to be some other way to deal with that.”

Jerome said, “We’ve probably considered 20 serious alternatives and none of them have the desired impact with minimal consequences that this plan offers.”

Cora broke in, “I’m worried too. I wish our colonization of other planets and moons had been more successful, and we’ll get there in time, but we can’t wait for that to happen. We have to deal with this Earthly problem now. Most people agree that we’ve overpopulated the planet and
these shifts are just exacerbating the problem.”

Jerome added, “Yes, when you’re not fighting over fossil fuels or scarce resources, and diseases can be conquered quickly, the species is bound to flourish. We’re seeing the consequences of people living to an average of 180 years.”

Cora said, “What are your top concerns, Marcus?”

“Well, you know my natural inclination is to leave well enough alone, but my two main concerns in this case are inundating our continent with people before we reach stability and the impact on wind patterns.”

Cora responded, “So one sociological problem and one scientific. Can you be more specific?”

“We predict that after the planet realignment there will be one major shift of huge populations. Massive numbers of people will move to their preferred climate and economic future and then things are expected to stabilize. We should see much more consistency and frankly complacency with where people live. What we’re concerned about is that Africa will be a major destination prior to the eventual stabilization. The fertility of our land, vast resources, and strong economic engine will drive millions, if not billions of people to us.

“Remember when water encroached on places like Miami, Manhattan, Venice, and Amsterdam, the resettlements and disruption in those places were massive. Prices alternately skyrocketed and plummeted for decades. It made no sense and they weren’t prepared for it.”

Jerome interjected, “There are many attractive destinations in the world. Why would Africa besingled out?”

“I don’t think we’ll be singled out, but we’ll be one of the few most appealing.”

Cora said, “Yes, that’s why the Russian Republic is building more bubble shielded communities in their northern regions.”

Marcus looked directly at her. “We don’t know that we can handle an influx of people that huge.”

Jerome said, “Of course, the world will help you, and economic quotients will be adjusted to account for all of that.”

Marcus smiled. “Sometimes your optimism scares me, Jerome.” All three laughed nervously. “I’d feel much better having all the details up front.”

Jerome said, “Definitely, but there’s a limit to how much we can predict. We need to act soon and deal with the aftermath as it unfolds.”

Marcus raised his arms. “Which is exactly our problem with the wind currents. Do you think those have been studied sufficiently? What if they change in ways we don’t expect once the realignment happens? My continent, or any of ours, could be vastly different than we expect in five years.”

Cora frowned, “Meteorology is one of our more exact sciences right now and wind is so pliable.”

Marcus said, “I know that’s the industry you came from, Cora, but you two forget about Icarus. Nature can only be predicted and controlled up to a point. You never know when it will all fall apart or catch you by surprise.”

Cora said, “At this point, redirecting wind is like tuning a dial on an old-time TV or radio. If it goes one way and you want it to go another, redirect it to the appropriate channel.”

Jerome said, “That’s one of the least of my worries and scientists spent a day on that at the summit last year. I also trust in Cora.” He smiled at her.

“Don’t trust me! I’ve been out of that loop for more than twenty years.”

“I know. Just kidding. But I know you understood all their arguments and never seemed concerned with any of it.”

“No, I’m not worried about that aspect. Remember that the planet was once very dependent on fossil fuels until the ‘Power Through Abundance’ movement shifted everything to water, solar, wind, and fusion. Just like our ancestors did, we need to move cautiously and respect nature, but also harness it and help nature help us.”

Jerome said, “Well put.”

Marcus looked down, “You two seem to have your minds made up on this plan.”

Jerome sat up straight. “I do. I’m in favor of it.”

Cora acknowledged, “I’ve been wavering. The sheer magnitude of it is what worries me. Marcus, I know this is scary and nobody will have all the answers. At least half the world will be nervous until we actually do something and live with the consequences.”

“Yes, the consequences…”

Jerome touched his shoulder. “But they’re shared consequences. We won’t leave you hanging and hopefully you won’t leave us either if something goes wrong for us. No nation is a huge winner here. It’s the world that wins. And like you said, Africa could be a big winner in many ways.”

Marcus got up from the table as robots came by to recycle his garbage. “Thanks for hearing me out. I appreciate your time and thoughtful consideration.”

Cora smiled at him, “Don’t worry, Marcus. Nobody here is taking this lightly.”

After Marcus left, Cora turned to Jerome, “He makes some good points.”

Jerome raised his eyebrows, “Wait, his arguments are getting to you?”

“Maybe we’re moving too quickly on this.”

“Or maybe not fast enough! If we don’t act soon, we’ll be forced into some much worse decisions.”

“We can’t possibly predict all the impacts of this realignment.”

“Cora, we can’t lose your support. You know how important this is.”

“I know. But Marcus has me nervous now.”

The other African Union delegates found more support among the people with whom they had met. When delegates returned to the assembly, there was a noticeable shift in tone.

As debate kicked off, Marcus and his colleagues made impassioned speeches advocating for increased resources to support colonization programs on other planets and moons. He raised his concerns about overwhelming migrations to the African Union and other places on the globe, as well as doubts about the ability to truly predict and direct shifting wind patterns.

Jerome texted Cora to ask her to meet him in the back of the hall. She made her way and they found a semi-private spot among all the other side conversations that were occurring. Lobbying and negotiating were rampant.

Jerome was more agitated than before, “I don’t like the way this is going Cora.”

“Then people need to hear your side if you want to fight for this.”

“People need to hear from you! We can’t do this without the United States and your opinion matters to a lot of people in this room.”

“Frankly, Jerome, I’m not sure how I’m going to vote.”

“Is it because of what Marcus said or something else?”

“It’s primarily the mass migrations once the tilt is corrected. I’m not worried about the wind. We’ve been able to control that for decades. Sure it will need some adjustments, but that’s so simple my grandkids could do that.”

“Yeah, I agree. Marcus keeps playing up the Antarctica incident, but that was ages ago and wind channelers have accounted for that blip.”

“Not our finest hour.”

“So why are the migrations bothering you now?”

“Remember during the coastal encroachments? I was living in Miami at the time and my parents moved us to Wyoming, well inland. That state and others around it have become some of the most populous in the country. We were welcomed like invaders. It took years to feel like we belonged there and were part of the state. We were basically tolerated until time soothed the tensions.”

“I wasn’t aware you had gone through all that. Obviously, people made sacrifices. You can’t go anywhere now without density being a problem. But that’s precisely why we have to do something now. We have to control the temporary shifts that continue to exacerbate tensions.”

“I’ll never forget how it felt to be viewed as an outsider for so long.”

“I’m sure you won’t. But the world is ready for this. The seasonal shifts can no longer be managed effectively.”

“You’re right. Anyway, it’s almost my turn to speak.”

“Cora, can I count on you to…” Jerome tried to get confirmation before Cora walked away, but she was already moving.

As Cora made her way to the speaker’s podium, she passed by Marcus and spoke in hushed tones, “Marcus, I agree with your resettlement concern. I know it’s real.”

Marcus smiled, “Good. I hoped I could count on you.”

“Stay tuned. There’s more than one way to skin a cat.” She was already on the move again.

Despite having served one of the longest tenures in the United Nations and earning the respect of many of its delegates, Cora rarely addressed the General Assembly as a whole, preferring to work behind the scenes through arm-twisting and negotiation, leaving the more public roles to her colleagues. She was accompanied to the lectern by warm continuous applause.

“Members of the Assembly, nations of the world, fellow citizens of Earth. I have spoken with my President and conferred with leading members of the U.S. Congress. After due consideration and lengthy debate, scientific analysis in an encyclopedia of fields – agriculture, transportation, politics, arts, population density, weather, and physics to name a few – and exhaustive feasibility studies, it is the view of the United States that we, as a united planet, should move forward with the plan to eliminate the tilt in the Earth’s axis. In other words, to right the ship. And I shall vote accordingly!”

The room erupted immediately in thunderous applause lasting nearly two minutes, including many delegates who were participating holographically. Not only was this display a break from decorum and past precedent, it clearly seemed to galvanize some who had been sitting on the fence. Jerome was among the first to rise to their feet. Marcus sat quietly, appearing dejected. Cora made a point to try to find him in the crowd, but she could only catch glimpses.

Cora grew more relaxed about speaking, but was increasingly uncomfortable with the extended ovation. She tried several times to motion people back to their seats. At last, people complied, returning to the more subdued tone of debate in the hall.

Cora continued, “I want to share some personal history with you, as most of you are not familiar with my story.” She went on to relate her life as a child, being uprooted, moving to Wyoming, and the cool reception she and others received. Marcus grew more attentive, wondering where she was headed.

“I’ve heard some of you express concerns about tensions that could arise as people make the transition to new areas. There will be cultural impacts, educational needs, and structural changes, with the most intense period being the next two years. The planet will adjust and populations will realign, but so must our attitudes and neighborliness. We’re in this together, so we have to reach out with helping hands and welcoming arms.

“In recognition of this, I propose we institute a program of Resettlement Coordinators to smooth the transition and get over the hurdles and Resettlement Ambassadors to welcome the incoming populations. In areas losing density, the coordinators will help to transition people out of their areas. I’m not talking about a welcome basket and a few coupons. I want us to pledge to fully deal with the psychological and cultural shifts of the travelers and those receiving them. These are real needs that must be dealt with.”

There was a round of applause showing general support for the idea. Nobody rose to their feet, but murmuring could be heard throughout the room. After such an exhaustive study of the entire global issue, it appeared they had neglected to adequately address some of the psychological adjustments required. Cora spoke for a few more minutes in support of the main proposal and for the tweaks she was suggesting to better adapt to changes due to population realignment.

Speakers were scheduled for the remainder of the afternoon, but all deferred to Marcus Booker so he could follow Cora. He was trembling as he took the microphone. “As many of you know, the African Union is largely not in favor of eliminating the Earth’s tilt. We favor accelerated planet colonization, building taller structures to increase density in already-popular areas, and limiting unnecessary travel for pleasure. However, we are not blind to the considerable problems with each of those options. Something must be done now and I know each of you are feeling that pressure. The delegates from the African Union have not yet decided how we will vote, but I want to speak in appreciation for the proposal by United States delegate Cora Walker. A program to ameliorate the problems of resettlement and help smooth the integration will be sorely needed if the primary plan is approved.”

The remaining speakers largely fell in line behind Cora in support of the proposal. Jerome spoke in the middle of the afternoon, lamenting that so many of the speakers seemed to be in support out of desperation, as if there was no alternative. While he agreed that the planet had reached that point, he extolled the virtues of the proposal in general, suggesting that if the option to remove the tilt had been available hundreds of years earlier, it would have received widespread support back then. There’s a natural appeal to the proposal, achieving balance and symmetry, and therefore greater predictability and control.

In the end, Cora’s Coordinator and Ambassador amendment received unanimous support, with considerable financial backing attached. The vote on the main proposal to eliminate the tilt in the Earth’s axis was somewhat easy to predict by the time it arrived, but was suspenseful nonetheless. The amount of impact on the planet and its inhabitants was not lost on anybody. The world had never undertaken anything this huge before. In the end, the plan passed by a three-fourths vote. Cheers erupted in the assembly for a solid ten minutes.

As delegates left the hall, exhausted but emboldened, Jerome rounded up Cora and Marcus and invited them out for a drink. They picked up additional colleagues along the way and drifted into an evening of laughter and reconnecting.

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