Barber Shop Talk: What all the talk is about

Barber Shop Talk at Fresno State is an open conversation that helps develop and build up young men as they go through life and college. 

Dr. Ramar Henderson, a former Fresno State professor and faculty member, started Barbershop Talk during the pandemic.

Dessalines Yamoussou, a Fresno City College professor, also helped start the discussion group.

“It’s really a safe space for black men to get together and to talk about things going on in our lives, things that are affecting us, and honestly, to unwind,” Yamoussou said.

The topics discussed can range from politics, sports, video games, pop culture, or whatever is happening in their daily lives. 

One minute, it’s why the Taylor Swift and NFL combination works so well, then it’s about the mechanics of the new Tekken game, and then how Kanye West got to where he is now.

The variety of topics and the constant flow of conversation are similar to the ambiance and atmosphere inside a barber shop. 

Having a space like this can build a connection with others and create an environment that builds empowerment for men. 

Barber Shop Talk meets at 3 p.m. every Wednesday in the Harambee Room at the Cross-Cultural Gender Center inside the Frank Thomas Building at Fresno State.