Other than fear of being fired, black people in Montgomery had a hard time admitting to their white employers that they supported the boycott because they were aware of the potential consequences of being labeled as "troublemakers" or "agitators." They feared being subjected to further discrimination, harassment, and even violence. Additionally, many black people were economically dependent on their white employers and felt that openly supporting the boycott could jeopardize their livelihoods. The societal power dynamic between whites and blacks in Montgomery during this time made it difficult for black people to express their political beliefs and support for the boycott without fear of retribution.