The Barbershop by Gordon Braxton

As a young man, Gordon Braxton often found the pulse of the African American community in the town barbershop. Every topic imaginable is fair game in the barbershop, but some may be surprised how often sexual assault works its way into the discussions.

Gordon brings the conversation concerning issues of sexual violence and its relationship to communities of color out of the barbershop and into public discourse. A listing of Mike Tyson, Tupac Shakur, Michael Jackson, R. Kelly, Kobe Bryant, Martin Lawrence, James Brown, Clarence Thomas, Allen Iverson, and O.J. Simpson reads like a “Who’s Who” of African American celebrities, but is unfortunately also known as a listing of African American men associated with sexual violence or harassment. This preponderance of visible African Americans with legal troubles related to gendered violence and harassment provides a starting point for the discussion.

“The Barbershop” includes a lively analysis of popular music videos, songs, and movies. Gordon’s entertaining and captivating style creates a comfortable environment for all who attend the program. Students of all cultural backgrounds are given an opportunity to discuss the complexities of sexual violence in their communities.

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