‘Coming 2 America’ Hairstylist Stacey Morris Reflects on Legacy of Barbershops and Black History Month
variety.comStacey Morris As an African American, I cannot discuss Black history without mentioning the direct influence it has on the fabric of my existence.
As a Black female barber-stylist, by profession, I reflect on the history of Black barbers and barbershops, as well as my progenitors that pioneered a historical pathway.Amidst many social changes that transpired in the 19th century, Black-owned and operated barbershops catered most to white patrons.
The Black barbers, who were usually slaves, rarely serviced Black men.Segregation was highly enforced, forbidding barber tools used on a Black man to also be used on white customers.
After the emancipation, Black-owned barbershops were opened to service Black customers. That was the very beginning of the barbershop traditionally becoming a sanctuary for Black men.
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