Why We Hosted Talks in the Barbershop and Beauty Salon: A Community Approach to Violence Intervention

In our increasingly complex world, managing emotions such as anger is paramount, especially for the youth who often find themselves at crossroads where their decisions can have life-altering consequences. This is why Community for New Direction decided to host talks in the local barbershop and beauty salon — two social hubs that foster conversation and connection among individuals. These sessions aimed to share experiences, learn from one another, and equip the younger generation with tools to navigate their emotions constructively.

In September, some fights occurred at Linden McKinley High School, prompting us to act. We saw an urgent need to address anger management in our youth. These incidents not only disrupt the youths’ lives but also leave scars on the community, affecting relationships and creating cycles of violence that are hard to break. By inviting adults to share their experiences with anger and the consequences they faced, we aimed to offer a reflective space that encourages learning from past mistakes. During our discussions, many adults took the microphone to share personal stories about their struggles with anger and the lessons they learned along the way. They recounted moments when their anger led to regrettable actions, often affecting their relationships with school, family, and friends, and even resulting in jail. The raw honesty of the adults resonated deeply with the youth.

Some adults spoke of the turning points in their lives, moments that forced them to change how they handled their emotions. They discussed the importance of seeking help, whether through therapy, mentorship, or supportive community networks, and shared strategies that helped them manage their anger effectively.

The impact of these talks extended beyond just sharing stories; they fostered a sense of community resilience. By openly addressing anger management, we are not only helping our youth but also strengthening relationships within our community. Each shared story and lesson contributes to an environment where young people can feel safe and supported, mitigating the risk of future violence.

In conclusion, our decision to host talks in the barbershop and beauty salon stemmed from our desire to create a space for honest dialogue about anger and its management. With the voices of adults guiding the way, we hope to inspire the next generation to embrace positive alternatives to violence, paving the way for a more harmonious community. Together, through communication, support, and understanding, we can work to break the cycles of anger and violence and foster a brighter future for all.