Local barber provides safe space for young men through conversation
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MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – Most men consider it their safe space, barbershops.
A local barber is using conversation and fresh cuts to be a change maker for local youth.
It’s through a nonprofit called H.I.M, Helping Inspire Men.
Raymond Henderson and Richmond George are the founders of H.I.M. The program launched in 2019. Every two weeks the barbershop, Tailored Salon Memphis, is filled with young men needing much more than a cut or touched-up fade
“The barbershop is the country club for a Blackman, we shuck and jive but lately it’s been a lot of seriousness, that’s why the barbershop is a space we can just be,” Henderson said. “We are going to talk about our emotions, our feelings, and it kind of transitioned to the kids.”
From the adult men to the younger generation.
Henderson and George realized there was power in the chair.
“Historically it’s just always been a safe space for us,” George said. “We come here at our worst if you think about it figuratively.” “We are building relationships with these kids. So, we know them personally. We know their situations, we know what school is like, we know what home is like for them. Being able to reach out to these young men and reach them where they are and understand the anger that they have. So, we are providing that level of coaching. Wrapping our arms around them and lifting them up and provide a safe space for them and the city.”
Henderson and George serve as the young men’s barbers, life coaches, and mentors.
While shops are universally known as a safe space, Henderson said he wants the work he does at his shop, to last longer than a fresh chop.
“It is not over for the young black male in Memphis. It is not over, it’s not the end of the road,” Henderson said. “We have spaces that they can come and express themselves. Alot of times they just don’t have the language. So, with Helping Inspire Men we believe in giving them the language, helping them understand what it is that you’re feeling, how you’re feeling and how you can express that.”
Henderson and George’s target group is young men ages 8 to 19.
For additional info visit their website at www.raybridginghumas.com or find them on Instagram at Helpinginspiremen
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