New York City-based Boom Boom Brow Bar prides itself on being a safe haven and inclusive place of business for all. Recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the New York State Department of State (DOS) partnered with New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence to develop and distribute an informational video for salon professionals.
Providing guidance and information for hairdressers, estheticians and manicurists, this video addresses how to talk to clients who may be victims of domestic violence, through a campaign aiming to empower professionals who develop long-term, trusting relationships with their clients to offer support and share the New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline number: 800.942.6906. As part of the program, I AM ABLE cards, designed to encourage bystanders to be aware, believe, listen to and empower victims, include the hotline number and contact information.
“Most of our clients come in once a month, so we get to know them really well. The I AM ABLE program helps train our staff to listen without judgment and empower victims with resources,” says Malynda Vigliotti—AKA Boom Boom. “We’ve created a pretty special community at The Boom and we want to protect our members.”
—by Angelina Lewis
[Video: Courtesy of NYS OPDV]