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

Source: Address to the National Negro Business League convention, Chicago, 23 August 1912 (as reported by A'Lelia Bundles)

Context Left off the programme by Booker T. Washington, she rose uninvited on the convention's final day to introduce herself and her business to the delegates.

Portrait of Madam C. J. Walker
Madam C. J. WalkerUnited States · 1867–1919
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“I know how to grow hair as well as I know to grow cotton.”
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