It’s a neutral third place for the community to gather
During Black History Month, salon owner Nunu Leddesew is thinking of her ancestors who worked hard for the freedom to be whoever and whatever they wanted to be. She also sees it as a time to showcase Black identity and culture.
Nunu’s Hair Salon is nestled in the heart of Commercial Drive, a location she chose because of the vibrant diversity. She wanted to foster a place where her customers can freely be themselves. “They come here, they meet different ideas, different cultures, different languages, and people. I think they learn a lot from each other,” she said. At the salon, Leddesew sees Black identity and culture celebrated every day of the year, not just during Black History Month.
Leddesew said a trip to the salon is a cultural experience.
“It’s cultural to have your head done and look beautiful, you know? And communicate with people. So people come to meet people sometimes, it’s not only for the hair.” – Nunu Leddesew, owner of Nunu’s Hair Salon
Rita Dickson, a longtime customer, echoes that sentiment. Dickson has been loyal to Leddesew since 2001, when Leddesew was working at a hair salon across the street from what is now Nunu’s. Dickson said that while her Jamaican heritage is different from Leddesew’s Ethiopian roots, the hair salon is a commonplace for them to get to know each other’s Black cultures.
To Dickson, the significance of Black History Month is everchanging, influenced by her own growth and changes in society and politics. At first, it was an opportunity to go see performances and learn about other Black cultures. Later, she started feeling unappreciated, picking up on others voicing their irritation of Black History Month taking place in the shortest month. She said this year feels different.
“I haven’t done much this year. I think I’m a little bit tired of what’s happening politically. I see evidence online that people are out celebrating and I’m feeling very removed from it.” – Rita Dickson, longtime customer of Nunu’s Hair Salon
Dickson said recent decisions from the White House have discouraged her, leaving her in no mood to celebrate.