the barber’s chair. (Photo/Conrad Baker)
Today, Council Vice President Willie J. Lightfoot, who also serves as the President of the United Professional Barbers and Cosmetologists Association (UPBCA), submitted 1022 signatures to Governor Cuomo asking that barber shops and other businesses in the appearance enhancement industry be reopened. This list of signatories is comprised of industry workers, their clients, and other business owners impacted by the shut-down.
“We wish to ensure that all New Yorkers are safe, but we must recognize that viral spread has not been linked to appearance enhancement industry establishments. Many businesses are following guidance issued by the State and exercising extreme caution when working with customers, “ said Lightfoot. “We also must recognize that a disproportionate number of businesses that have been shut down are minority owned and located in the City. We must do everything we can to help them and ensure that workers and customers remain safe.”
The petition was signed by 288 Appearance Enhancement Business Owners and those who rent booths in businesses. Below is the total breakdown of individuals who have signed onto the petition:
| TOTALS | |
| Appearance Enhancement Business Owner | 152 |
| Appearance Enhancement Business Owner, Booth Renter | 21 |
| Appearance Enhancement Business Owner, Booth Renter, Client | 7 |
| Appearance Enhancement Business Owner, Client | 8 |
| Appearance Enhancement Business Owner, Non-Industry Business Owner | 6 |
| Appearance Enhancement Business Owner, Non-Industry Business Owner, Client | 2 |
| Booth Renter | 78 |
| Booth Renter, Client | 14 |
| Business Owner Non-Industry | 29 |
| Business Owner Non-Industry, Client | 39 |
| Client | 661 |
| No Response | 5 |
| TOTAL | 1022 |
