- Legal barriers: Coleman faced legal challenges and restrictions due to her activism. She was arrested and charged on multiple occasions for her participation in civil rights demonstrations, sit-ins, and protests. These legal battles could have potentially resulted in imprisonment, fines, and disruptions to her personal and professional life.
- Racism and discrimination: As an African-American woman, Coleman encountered racism and discrimination on various fronts. She was subjected to verbal abuse, threats, and physical violence because of her activism and her fight for equality. Such discrimination not only hindered her efforts but also caused emotional and psychological stress.
- Community resistance: Not everyone in the African-American community supported Coleman's activism. Some individuals believed her methods were too confrontational or risky and could potentially harm their community. This lack of universal support could have made it challenging for her to mobilize and gather wider participation in her initiatives.
- Internal conflicts: Coleman's activism was not immune to internal conflicts. Disputes could arise among fellow activists regarding strategies, priorities, and approaches. Balancing different viewpoints and resolving disagreements could have been time-consuming and complicated her efforts.
- Gender bias: As a female activist, Coleman also faced gender bias and sexism in a predominantly male-led civil rights movement. She might have been subjected to stereotypes and challenges in asserting her leadership and being heard equally in discussions and decision-making processes.
- Financial strains: Coleman's activism often meant substantial financial sacrifices. Traveling to participate in protests, attending conferences, and covering legal expenses could have been costly. Securing funding and managing financial resources were constant concerns for her and her fellow activists.
- Personal risks: Coleman's dedication to civil rights activism exposed her to personal risks and dangers. She faced arrest, harassment, and potential physical harm from hostile individuals and law enforcement officers. Balancing her commitment to the movement with her own safety and well-being was a demanding task.
Despite these challenges, Quimby Coleman persevered and continued her influential work, demonstrating resilience and a strong commitment to the fight for civil rights equality.