Changing the Beauty Industry and Changing the World
Although these entrepreneurs came from different walks of life and stood for different causes, one thing they all had in common was their philanthropic nature.
Walker used her influence to support organizations for the advancement of African American rights and was heavily involved in the National Association of Colored Women and NAACP.
During WWII, Helena Rubinstein helped Jewish families escape Europe and employed many in her companies. She also assisted Polish Jews who had reached New York with employment and lodging. Rubinstein also advocated for the arts, particularly championing women artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe.
Lydia Pinkham was an ardent supporter of the abolitionist and suffrage movements.
Elizabeth Arden advocated for suffrage and marched for the right to vote, distributing bright red lipstick to the marchers, which became a symbol of solidarity and independence.