“The struggle is real,” Sen. Bailey said with a subtle sigh. “If I couldn’t get to a barber, I would go back and forth to see if someone could show me how to properly line up. I live in the Bronx, but often have to travel to Albany. not. [congressional] session. Sometimes in Albany you feel like you need to line up or tape up, and it’s not always comfortable. ”
In both salons and barbershops, a lack of education about hair texture has a human cost. In such a scenario, Black people have to risk potential denial of service or hair/scalp damage if the stylist is not prepared to work with them.
The Future of Hairstyling in New York State
Despite the bill’s good intentions, only time will tell whether it will truly make all salons in New York state more inclusive. But bill S6528A serves a larger purpose than just forcing hair texture education in cosmetology schools. It means recognizing that black people have the right to sit comfortably in any salon chair. “We feel it is necessary for all individuals to embrace the idea that they deserve safe, professional services provided in a sanitary environment by trained and licensed individuals,” Reddy said. To tell. “We all deserve equal access to hair care services.”
Hairstyling is sometimes considered a luxury activity, but it’s important to remember that rest, relaxation, and pampering can have a positive impact on our overall health. “When we talk about mental health and how we’re feeling, I think we need to understand that hair care and personal care are part of an overall sense of well-being,” Senator Bailey points out.
But let’s be clear: Bill S6528A is not a quick fix and will not immediately alleviate the black generation’s distrust of non-black stylists. But it has the potential to open new doors.
“There is no single state statute or statute. [can] It’s about solving social ills,” said Senator Bailey. “But I think when people who aren’t necessarily part of your culture take the time to learn something, it’s viewed favorably. [However,] If you feel more comfortable with a Black stylist, you should continue to see one. Go to someone else if you feel like it. ”
But overall, this bill has the potential to lead the state to a better future, one where Black people are no longer ashamed of their natural characteristics. And one is People who spend money on beautywe understand our purchasing power and only enter salons where we feel safe and welcome.
Continue reading:
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