Barbara Mincey, Michelle Edmonds-Sepulveda, Joy Brown, Kimberly Williams, Kiara Clemons Photos
The three young women pictured above put the future on display along with some local New Haven history …
… or, more precisely, some New Haven “hairstory.” They and other Hillhouse High School cheerleaders served as models — and displayed the stylings — of some of the city’s most talented hair stylists during a hair show that was part of a “Celebration of New Haven’s Black Beauty Shops & Barber Shops.”
The Board of Alders Black & Hispanic Caucus organized the Black History Month event, which took place this past Friday evening at the Hall of Records, to pay tribute to the early trendsetters in the field as well as to highlight the ongoing work of seven current practitioners, from Salon E’ Selim, Style 2000 Beauty Salon, Sharon Joy Beauty Salon, Hair’s Kay, Dexter’s Barbershop, Who’s Next Barbershop, and Headz Up Barbershop.
Dixwell Alder Jeanette Morrison, a prime mover behind the event, said she sought to highlight “the versatility of black hair,” which “allows you to be who you want to be. How you’re feeling. What kind of look you want. We can be versatile every day of our life.” She also sought to highlight “the economics of hair” and “pay homage to some of our community pioneers” …
… such as “Willie C.” Mewborn, shown here with Edgewood Alder Evette Hamilton …
… Estelle Bromelle Barfield of California Hair Designs (pictured with her husband) …
… and 92-year-old Willa Mae Madden, the city’s first female barber (pictured: her daughter Teresa Daniels).
Sharon Clemons, co-owner of Sharon and Joy Beauty Salon, served as emcee for the event, which included a moment of silence for Henri (Enri) Sumner, longtime proprietor of With These Hands (and a 2001 and 2009 mayoral candidate). Summer recently passed away.
The Hillhouse crew was looking sharp.