When I was in St. Louis for the launch of the Redirection Boycott for Black Beauty Supply Stores on Nov. 16, I encountered a very interesting discussion. We were at my friend, Sojohna Bell's Ladyz of Elegance Salon in St. Louis, Mo., when her father and the president of the St. Louis Cosmetology Association, Jeff Houston, got into a healthy debate. They argued who had more influence, the black church or the black salon. One backed the church because of its historical legacy in bringing black people together and executing movements. The other argued that before folks go to church, they go get their hair "done." The friendly debate was entertaining, yet insightful.
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