Madam C. J. Walker

“The girls and women of our race must not be afraid to take hold of business endeavor and, by patient industry, close economy, determined effort and close application to business, wring success out of a number of business opportunities that lie at their very doors.”

“I am a woman who came from the cotton fields of the South. From there I was promoted to the washtub. From there I was promoted to the cook kitchen. And from there I promoted myself into the business of manufacturing hair goods and preparations.”

“My advice to every one expecting to go into business is to hit often and hit hard; in other words, strike with all your might.”

“I feel that I am in a business that is a credit to the womanhood of our race.”