The Legacy of the Black Barbershop

THE LEGACY OF THE BLACK BARBERSHOP
The barbershop is a deep rooted institution in the black community. It serves as not only a place to get a great shape-up, but also a hub of information, resistance and self-care.
The Black barbershop is not new to America. Barbering was actually one of the most sought after professions of formerly enslaved men post civil war, and throughout the Jim Crow era.
Due to racist laws and practices Black men were limited on where they could gather and speak freely, and the friendly confines of the barbershop become one of those retreats.
Since the barbershop was mostly segregated during that time, early activism, organizing and discussions of civil rights and equality took place, even voter registration.

THE FAMOUS ROSE AND TAYLOR BARBERSHOP
The Rose and Taylor Barbershop was opened in downtown Champaign by Lum Rose, and Joe Taylor. They were in business together for more than 20 years at their shop in Downtown Champaign.  He recalled the good times and how Lum was like a father to him.

Lum died in 2012, but we did talk to Joe about his more than 50 year career behind the barber's chair. He still cuts hair for a few friends and says the conversation he has with them is the best part.

RAY GLASS, JR- RAYZOR SHARP DESIGNS
Ray Glass  Jr. is the current proprietor. He cuts hair in the first chair, under a large framed photo of Lum and and Joe. He comes from a long line of entrepreneurs including farmers, mechanics and pastors. Ray’s clients also share their perspective on the barbershop and what the experience means to them as Black men and fathers.