They are faced with responsibility and total commitment, financial burdens, keeping up with technology, access to capital and problems with employees. Despite their difficulties, ninety percent of women said they would choose business ownership if they had a chance to do it all over again. From the time African American women first stepped foot in the New World, they have struggled courageously to contribute towards a better life in this society. From the 1600's until today, their struggles have been waged from the position of black and white Americans and they have labored under the hardest conditions. While their contributions have been significant in the development of this nation, they have had to fight against oppression.
Black females have yet to enjoy the full benefits of their suffering and hard labor.
Black women were affected by racism and sexism where they lived and worked, yet the full leadership potential of black women throughout history has been underutilized by white as well as black organizations. In fact, during slavery, organizations were not permitted among the slaves. White males headed organizations that included black and white males and females. White women headed women's groups that were racially mixed. Outside of the family, which was headed by males, the black church was the first major institution completely controlled by blacks.