The Morning After: Black Women Business Leaders Reflect on Election Outcome

Pinky Cole, a successful vegan food entrepreneur, woke up feeling drained after the presidential election results. She had built her business from scratch in just a few years, but today, she felt emotionally exhausted. "I'm sad, " she shared with ESSENCE. This election, she said, affected her differently than before because now she's a business owner. Many other Black women in business felt the same way. Dr. Peggy Roberts, a healthcare provider, was concerned about how the new president-elect might affect her ability to provide care, especially since he's against Medicaid. "He won because some people cared more about race and gender than the health of the nation, " she explained. Morgan Malone, CEO of City Bureau, warned that nonprofits should prepare for tough times. "You can't rely on one source of income anymore, " she advised. Right-wing groups like The Heritage Foundation have plans that could threaten many gains made in housing, social justice, and economic equity. Despite these concerns, Black women leaders are resilient. Cole believes their strong community helps them keep going. "We don't give up, " she said, her voice filled with emotion. "We get better and keep going. "