STRANDS FOR TRANS
Boulder Hair Collective is making waves in the beauty industry by partnering with Strands For Trans, a global network dedicated to creating safe and positive experiences for all guests, especially those in the trans community. With the historically gendered nature of haircuts in salons and barbershops, the trans community has often felt uncomfortable and unwelcome. Strands For Trans is working to change that by bringing together people from all walks of life to create more trans-friendly spaces in the beauty industry. By joining forces with this movement, Boulder Hair Collective is helping to make a difference and create a more inclusive environment for everyone.
The significance of a haircut in affirming one's identity cannot be underestimated, as Creative Director JP Gomez explains. Strands For Trans was born out of the desire to provide a directory of trans-affirming beauty businesses where people can feel safe and supported. With the support of influential figures like Billy Porter and Marc Jacobs, the network now features 7,500 businesses from 28 countries and continues to grow. This is particularly crucial in areas like Texas, where LGBTQIA+ rights are facing challenges from anti-trans and anti-gay legislation.
Founded by Gomez and Xavier Cruz, a married couple and co-owners of New York grooming boutique Barba, Strands For Trans was inspired by a transgender man being denied a haircut at a local barbershop. In response to the increasing anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation in the US, Gomez emphasizes the urgency of creating inclusive and supportive spaces for all members of the community. Boulder Hair Collective is proud to stand as a safe space that embraces a gender-neutral approach to hair styling, ensuring that all clients feel welcome and respected.
By partnering with Strands For Trans, Boulder Hair Collective is not only supporting the trans community but also sending a powerful message about the importance of inclusivity and acceptance in the beauty industry. This collaboration is a step towards creating a more diverse and welcoming environment for everyone who walks through their doors. As the movement grows and more businesses join in, the hope is that trans-friendly spaces will become the norm rather than the exception.
It's clear that the work being done by Strands For Trans and Boulder Hair Collective is making a difference in the lives of many. By providing a platform for trans-affirming businesses and advocating for inclusivity, they are helping to shape a more accepting and understanding society. Every haircut, every styling session, becomes an opportunity to show support and acceptance for all individuals, regardless of their gender identity. It's a small gesture that can have a huge impact on someone's sense of self-worth and belonging.
As we continue to strive for equality and understanding, it's important to support initiatives like Strands For Trans and businesses like Boulder Hair Collective that are leading the way in creating a more inclusive world. By standing together and embracing diversity, we can create a future where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. Let's join in this movement for change and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Together, we can create a world where everyone is welcome and celebrated for who they are.
