In the heart of Sacramento’s Broadway, brothers Marichal and Rodney Brown carry on a legacy deeply rooted in their family history. Their father, Earlie D. Brown, a revered master barber, not only provided haircuts but also served as a confidant to many, offering a safe haven for intimate conversations in the back room of his Bay Area barbershop.

Marichal reflects on the significance of this tradition, highlighting the societal pressure on Black men to suppress emotions. “We as Black men, we’re taught not to show emotions,” he shares, underscoring the importance of spaces where individuals can freely express themselves.

Today, the Browns’ Hairitage barbershop in Sacramento stands as a beacon of support within the community, as they join a nationwide movement of Black barbers and stylists advocating for mental health awareness through the Confess Project.

Founded by Lorenzo Lewis in 2016, the Confess Project harnesses the influential role of barbershops in Black communities, training over 4,000 barbers and stylists across 54 cities to become frontline mental health advocates. These professionals undergo specialized training to facilitate conversations about mental health and connect clients with vital support services.

Darnell Rice, a trainer with the Confess Project, emphasizes the importance of challenging cultural biases that hinder access to mental health care. “It’s important to advocate for ourselves,” Rice asserts, recognizing the pivotal role barbers and stylists play in breaking down stigma and fostering a supportive environment.

The impact of this initiative is profound, with Marichal noting that he has been able to provide referrals and support to numerous clients. Their efforts are particularly crucial given the alarming statistics revealing the prevalence of mental health conditions among Black Californians, especially among Black men and boys.

Despite the strides made in normalizing discussions around mental health, challenges persist. Many Black individuals still face obstacles in accessing respectful and equitable care, contributing to feelings of alienation and distrust within the healthcare system.

Tragically, suicide rates among Black male teens and young adults continue to rise, highlighting the urgent need for community-based interventions. Lewis emphasizes the importance of fostering a network of advocates who can provide support and understanding to those in need, particularly in spaces like barbershops where individuals feel comfortable opening up.

For Rice, the barbershop represents more than just a place for grooming; it’s a sanctuary where Black men can authentically express themselves and find solidarity in their struggles. “For me, the barbershop has helped me become a better person, a better advocate and, most of all, a better man,” Rice reflects, underscoring the transformative power of these community spaces.