Policing, Mental Health Top Issues For Black Voters In Milwaukee: Barb

Source: Bilal Morris / iOne Digital During the second day of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, the NewsOne team decided to switch it up, leave the convention floor behind and talk with some Black voters about the important issues facing the community. If you want to get a sense of the pulse of a city, there’s no better place to do that than a Black barbershop. Dating back to the 19th century, Black barbershops have long served the community as a hub for Black conversations while providing a safe space for Black men to gather and support each other in all aspects of manhood. Barbershops help foster a sense of community and belonging among Black folks and even sometimes serve as informal community centers. In the case of Gee’s Clippers, it’s also a medical clinic. Gee’s Clippers, located on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Milwaukee, is a staple in the community. Garland Smith, the owner, took some time out of his busy schedule to sit down with NewsOne and discuss the important role the shop plays within the community. “I got a health clinic here called G’s MKE Wilderness Clinic, where we assist individuals with not just...