Councilmember Cohen and Barbers Across Baltimore Unite to Speak Out Against Violence
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 21, 2021
Councilmember Cohen and Barbers Across Baltimore Unite to Speak Out Against Violence
The meeting comes after the tragic shootings of community members in Baltimore barbershops
BALTIMORE, MD (November 21) —Monday, November 22, at 3:00 PM, Councilmember Zeke Cohen will join community leaders Troy Staton (More Than a Shop), Ivan Rodriguez (Bmore Cutz), and barbers from across Baltimore to unite in solidarity against the recent violence in the community.
The group will speak about improving safety in shops, setting up funds to support the families of the victims in the recent barbershop shootings, and providing therapeutic services to those affected in partnership with Healing City Baltimore, a community-based movement of neighbors in Baltimore focused on healing from trauma, violence, and racial inequity.
“Enough is enough with the horrific violence. Murdering a child outside of a rec center. Killing an older woman in her church. And shooting barbers in their shops. We must reclaim our safe spaces and put an end to the killings that are devastating our communities,” said Councilmember Cohen.
“Barbershops are sanctuaries, safe spaces. We are here to let people know that we aren't having this in our community anymore. We'll work together, as barbers of all colors and nationalities, to help those that have been hurt and stand against all who try to violate our spaces of healing,” said Troy Staton.
“Barbers and the community are traumatized. Whatever the reason behind the violence is not the point, the point is the trauma. We've all come here from across Baltimore to see how we can heal,” said Ivan Rodriguez. “Our shops are the main source for everything. Everyone comes to the shops. I believe if we all work together to spread resources throughout the community, we will be okay.”
For more information, or to make an interview request, please contact Nicolas Mackall at Nicolas.Mackall@baltimorecity.gov.
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Who: Councilmember Cohen, Troy Staton (More Than a Shop), Ivan Rodriguez (Bmore Cutz), and Barbers from across Baltimore.
Where: Bmore Cutz, 5901 Eastern Avenue Unit C
When: November 22, 3:00PM
What: Barbers across Baltimore meeting to speak out against violence and to announce initiatives and funds to help victims and their families.
