The Personal Blog Of
Boston Motorcycle Attorney

Katherine Johnson and Harley Davidson Diversity
February 26, 2010

Harley Davidson has been a pioneer in the motorcycle industry for a variety of reasons. For years, the Motor Company has been an innovator in motorcycle design and performance. Harley Davidson is one of the most well recognized and respected brands among motorcycle companies and other businesses.

Harley Davidson has also been an innovator in the area of diversity. The Motor Company has made it possible for many minorities and women to enjoy professional careers in the motorcycle industry.

In 1998, Katherine Johnson became the first African American female to own a Harley Davidson dealership.

Ms. Johnson, the owner of a small marketing and advertising firm in Milwaukee, WI, was at a point in her career in the late 1990s where she wanted to consider a career change. She discussed her desire to change careers with her friend who also was a recruiter for Harley Davidson. After a few conversations, Johnson decided to become a Harley Davidson dealer.

There was one problem. Johnson knew practically nothing about motorcycles. She also had to overcome her misconceptions about motorcycle riders. Her knowledge of motorcycles came from watching TV shows and movies like Easy Rider. She felt that motorcycle riders were largely criminals.

This lack of knowledge did not deter Johnson, at the time a 50-year-old mother of two. By utilizing her marketing and advertising knowledge and Harley training, she was able to successfully open her dealership in December 1998. Ultimately, she learned that Harley owners are among the most loyal customers in the world and her customer base would largely be professionals. Her grand opening was a success and on that day, she sold 18 motorcycles.

Harley Davidson was instrumental in helping Johnson develop a business and leave a legacy behind for her children and grandchildren. In the process, Johnson was able to make Harley history.