A local barber says he refuses to close his doors after a hate-fueled attack targeted his small business. The incident, which left damage to both the shop and the owner’s morale, has instead strengthened his commitment to the community.
Attack on the Shop
Late last week, the barber—whose name is being withheld at his request—arrived at his shop to find slurs spray-painted across the storefront and shattered glass from a broken window scattered on the floor. According to security footage, the vandalism occurred around 2 a.m., and police are currently investigating the incident as a hate crime.
“I was shocked, honestly,” the barber said. “You never expect this kind of thing in your own neighborhood.”
Despite the shock and the damage, the barber says he will not shut down his business. His statement—“They want fear. I won’t give it to them.”—has quickly resonated online, drawing support from across the country.
Community Response
Within hours of the news spreading, local residents began showing up to the shop, offering help to clean up the mess. Some brought flowers. Others booked haircuts as a show of solidarity. A GoFundMe campaign, started by a longtime customer, has already raised enough money to cover the cost of repairs.
“It’s about more than hair,” said one customer. “This place is part of the neighborhood.”
The barber says he’s been overwhelmed by the community’s support. “For every person who hates, there are a hundred who don’t,” he said. “That’s who I’m staying open for.”
Why It Matters
The barber says he will stay open not out of defiance alone, but because he sees his shop as a safe place—especially for people who often feel unwelcome elsewhere. It’s not just about cutting hair. It’s about offering dignity, routine, and connection.
The attack is a stark reminder that hate crimes are still very real, even in seemingly quiet places. But it’s also a reminder that resilience, in even the smallest businesses, can be a powerful act of resistance.
Moving Forward
The shop remains open and busy. New customers have been stopping in—not just for a haircut, but to stand with someone who took a stand himself.
“I’m not going anywhere,” the barber said, “and this shop isn’t either.
