Gratitude and appreciation: Some African Americans felt gratitude and appreciation towards white business owners who were willing to serve them despite the prevailing societal norms. They understood the risks that these business owners took in going against the discriminatory practices of the time.
Loyalty: As a result of the positive experiences and respectful treatment they received, many African Americans developed loyalty to these white business owners. They would frequently return to these establishments for their needs, even if it meant traveling longer distances or paying slightly higher prices.
Support: In some cases, African Americans showed their support for these businesses by spreading positive word-of-mouth recommendations within their communities. They encouraged their friends, family members, and acquaintances to patronize these establishments, thus contributing to their success.
Cautious optimism: While grateful for the opportunity to be served, some African Americans remained cautious and aware of the potential for continued discrimination. They might have felt a sense of uncertainty or anxiety due to the prevailing social climate, but they appreciated the efforts of these business owners to treat them fairly.
Economic empowerment: In certain instances, African Americans recognized the potential for economic empowerment that these interactions provided. They realized that by supporting businesses that were willing to serve them, they were contributing to the success of the African American community as a whole, creating opportunities for economic growth and independence.
It's important to note that these responses varied among individuals and communities. The experiences and attitudes of African Americans during segregation were diverse and complex, influenced by factors such as geographical location, personal circumstances, and the specific actions and attitudes of white business owners.