CNN interviews Blacks in a Black-owned barbershop. Didn't go as CNN planned... (2024)

FAQs

What does the barbershop mean to the black community? ›

At this point, Black barbers began opening shops in the Black community specifically to serve Black men. These barbershops quickly became a gathering place where Black men could gather to socialize, play chess and checkers, and discuss politics.

A GLIMPSE INTO THE HISTORY OF BLACK BARBER SHOPS

During times of segregation, these establishments served as safe havens for African Americans, offering them a space to freely express themselves and discuss important issues affecting their communities.

Many hairstylists opt for black clothing because they're often handling chemicals such as hair color that will easily stain clothing. When the products are spilled on black clothing, they're much less visible, giving hairstylists a more clean and professional look even if a mishap were to occur.

African-Americans began to use their hair as a way to showcase a link to their African ancestors and Blacks throughout the diaspora. The Afro, in conjunction with the Civil Rights Movement, was helping to define black identity. Some artists used their actual hair as an expression of art.

The bloody bandages associated with bloodletting inspired the red and white stripes, while the barber pole itself symbolises an instrument people gripped onto during the procedure to encourage blood flow. Barbers would place the barber pole outside their barbershop, to let customers know they were open for business.

Barbers of the time were known to perform medical treatments such as bloodletting, application of ointments, and tooth extraction. Over time, the profession of barber spread throughout the world.

Hair was, and still is, an important symbol of pride. It was a symbol that oppressive systems often sought to take away. When an estimated 12 to 15 million Black men, women and children were sold into slavery between 1500 and 1800, it was common for slave owners to shave the heads of the people they captured.

Only after remembering—not traveling through time—does Billy see that the barbershop quartet resembles the four German soldiers standing together, along with the 100 US POWs, in the slaughterhouse during the bombing.

The bloody bandages associated with bloodletting inspired the red and white stripes, while the barber pole itself symbolises an instrument people gripped onto during the procedure to encourage blood flow. Barbers would place the barber pole outside their barbershop, to let customers know they were open for business.

What are the benefits of barbershop in the community? ›

Barbershops have long been an integral part of local communities, serving as more than just a place to get a haircut. These establishments play a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging, promoting social interactions, and providing a space for community engagement.