Letter to the Editor: Don't punish barbers and beauty salons

Dear Editor:

I would like to begin by saying I am a cosmetologist (hair stylist) that has been working and serving our community in Downey for over 35 years. When I attended beauty college there were strict rules and procedures regarding health and diseases.

I decided to go to school full time and on a daily basis the instructors constantly were reminding us: “Has that been cleaned? Has that been sanitized? Has that been sterilized?” etc. Perhaps much like nursing school.

The authorities that be should have considered our profession as more prepared for this pandemic than they have because of our extensive training. Not because we’re special but because we’re trained and prepared in matters of contamination.

I’m not aware of Gov. Newsom or Mayor Garcetti consulting with the barber and cosmetology board before locking down all salons. I am certain that if they would have, the board would have provided professional advice, recommendations and suggestions by educating them as to the best approach to take.

We are professionals and did not obtain our license in a candy store or online. It is state-issued for a reason.

IT has not been the first time we have had to deal with a contagion. Back in the 80s, when the AIDS virus was rampant and spreading, we were well aware that it was transmitted through bodily fluids and on rare occasions someone may get nicked by some tool in a salon. Yet we never denied service to anyone with AIDS and not once did we have a problem or incident.

We also have contributed to some sense of normalcy and balance to our community by having frequent contact with our patrons (family). Let’s not forget that when family members get ill and can’t fix their hair, they come to us. Not just for their hair but for moral support and encouragement also.

When our family members (patrons) are being treated with chemotherapy, we’re the ones who tenderly and graciously have to cut their hair very short and, in some cases, shave it. This is not only traumatic for them but it also impacts us especially when you’ve known someone for over 30 years. They’re family.

These lockdown decisions are destroying our professional industry. More importantly, we are at a point of desperation for the survival of our families. People are on the edge, please don’t wait until people start violating the law to feed their families.

As for us, yes, we are the first responders in our profession and well equipped to serve th e public as we always have.

Angel Cortes
Downey