Her business model was groundbreaking, as it was one of the first to empower African American women to become entrepreneurs in their own right. Walker’s company grew rapidly, and by 1917, she had employed over 3,000 women in the U.S. alone. Madam C.J. Walker's products were sold not just in America but also in the Caribbean and parts of South America.
Advocacy for African American Rights
While building her business, Madam C.J. Walker also became an outspoken advocate for civil rights, particularly for African American women. She believed that economic independence was essential for the advancement of African Americans and took an active role in promoting social change.
Walker was a supporter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and a close ally of civil rights leaders like W.E.B. Du Bois. She used her wealth and influence to support African American causes, contributing generously to organizations that fought for racial equality, including the anti-lynching movement. Her commitment to social change was not limited to financial support; she also used her platform to speak out against racial discrimination and promote the empowerment of black communities.
In addition to her civil rights work, Madam C.J. Walker was an advocate for women’s rights. She believed that women, especially African American women, should have access to education, financial independence, and opportunities to build their own businesses. She often spoke about the importance of self-reliance, personal responsibility, and community building, values that would go on to inspire generations of African American women entrepreneurs.
Legacy and Impact
Madam C.J. Walker’s contributions to business, civil rights, and women’s empowerment cannot be overstated. She is remembered as one of the first African American women to become a self-made millionaire, a title she achieved by the time of her death in 1919. Her legacy extends beyond her wealth, as her efforts to uplift African American women, both economically and socially, created a lasting impact on the nation.
Today, Walker is celebrated as a trailblazer who helped pave the way for future generations of African American entrepreneurs and activists. Her name and her business continue to be synonymous with success, empowerment, and social justice. The Madam C.J. Walker Legacy Center in Indianapolis, which was once the headquarters of her company, stands as a testament to her enduring influence.
In addition, the recent resurgence of interest in her life, particularly through the 2020 Netflix series Self Made, has brought her story to a new generation, inspiring young women of color to pursue their dreams in the face of adversity. Madam C.J. Walker’s life reminds us that, even in the face of overwhelming odds, one person can change the course of history by using their talents, resources, and voice for the betterment of society.
Sarah Breedlove’s journey from a poor, orphaned child to a self-made millionaire and philanthropist is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination. Her life’s work remains an inspiration to entrepreneurs, activists, and women across the world. shutdown123