Sexual Harassment, Racism, and Unprofessionalism
I am writing this review as an Barber who use to cut in this toxic barbershop to warn both potential clients and barbers about the deeply troubling and racist environment at this barbershop, which is enabled by the owner.
My experience was defined by four core issues: outright racism, pathological lying from the owner, a toxic culture of control and jealousy and sexual harassment
1. Blatant Racism Tolerated and Excused:
The most shocking example occurred when one of the Hispanic barbers referred to the African American man who cleans the shop as a"monkey." When I brought this deeply offensive and racist remark to the owner's attention, he did not apologize or correct the behavior. Instead, he tried to justify it by saying it's a word "the Hispanic culture uses to describe the color of one's skin." This is unacceptable. The owner not only allows racism to occur but actively makes excuses for it. This incident is part of a larger pattern where Black barbers were systematically disrespected--our names were routinely crossed off the client list, and our appointments were stolen without consequence.
2. A Pathological Liar for an Owner:
The owner is fundamentally dishonest.He once lied to my face, claiming his next-door neighbor (a client of mine) had complained about my prices. When I respectfully asked the client, he was shocked and confirmed the owner had completely fabricated the story. This was one of many lies. He also consistently complained to me in private that other barbers were "illegal immigrants" without licenses, fostering a culture of gossip and distrust while presenting a different face to the public.
3. A Toxic Culture of Control and Jealousy:
The owner resents any barber with ambition.When I stood my ground on charging a fair price for my 15 years of experience, his attitude changed. When he learned I had a successful side business, he became cold and distant. He tried to control my schedule, despite me being an independent contractor, and resented me for working elsewhere during the holidays to maximize my income.
4. Failure to Address Sexual Harassment:
The most egregious breach of professional conduct occurred when a fellow barber told me that he liked me and wants to be my boyfriend, upon learning about my relationship status, showed me an unsolicited and explicit photograph of his genitals. I reported this incident of sexual harassment to the owner immediately. No action was taken. The owner's failure to address this violation created an intimidating and hostile work environment.
The combination of unaddressed sexual harassment, excused racial discrimination, and managerial dishonesty created an intolerable and professionally unsafe environment. I do not recommend this establishment to any professional, especially women, or to any client who wishes to support an ethical business. read more
