Whether it was becoming first lieutenant for the Army’s signal corps during World War I, studying engineering, or serving a role for the pentagon, Homer B Roberts was used to succeeding. But soon he would learn a hard lesson.
Even with all his accomplishments, including serving in the military, he was still unable to find a job. Businesses at the time were not likely to hire Black workers. So Roberts made a decision that would change his life and the lives of those around him.
He began selling cars in 1919, with only a curb stone as his office. Soon he found enough success to move his office indoors. And after that, his success allowed him to do something else.
Roberts was able to create opportunities for others. He only hired Black staff, and advertised his business in The Kansas City Sun, a local Black-owned newspaper. In 1921, after years of success and expansion, Roberts employed over 55 Black people for his company.
We are capable of creating our own resources for ourselves and each other. When we invest in each other, we only become stronger. What opportunities to support Black businesses exist in your community?