It all started with fire alarms in a residence hall and then one in our heads.
“The Royal Treatment,” EMU’s new barbershop and salon was born out of necessity. From time to time students would accidentally trip the fire alarm while caring for their hair in their rooms. Our goal is to create a dedicated space where students could access a proper hair-washing sink, sit comfortably for longer hair processes, and share their skills with others.
“The Royal Treatment” is not just meeting a practical need, but a cultural one. Barbershops have historically been places of gathering for the African American community. The Royal Treatment is intended to provide access to professional quality hair care resources for all EMU students, and also, like the historic barbershop, be a safe haven for gathering and community.
The space is located just inside the Southwest entrance of the University Commons (formerly SGA offices). Your donation will allow us to complete the transformation of the space that the facilities management team has begun.
We plan to christen “The Royal Treatment” Barbershop and Salon during EMU’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebrations on, January 21, 2019. As part of the grand opening, Tyrone Sprague, a local barber, will give his “Barbershop 101” talk that engages visitors around the Civil Rights Movement and race relations in Harrisonburg and the country.
By contributing to this campaign, you have the opportunity to support a project that is recognizing a historically important place of gathering for African American students, as well as the entire campus community. This space will show students of all backgrounds just how important they are and how much they are valued.
Please consider a gift today to make this project a reality! And be sure to stop by next time you’re on campus and need hair care – we guarantee you’ll get the Royal Treatment!
