Behind the Chair: A Battle With a Bigger Purpose
Tag: Blog
Downtown Tempe's Barber Battle reminds us that meaningful change often begins in the most unexpected places—like a barber’s chair.
The Downtown Tempe Barber Battle has become a signature tradition in Downtown Tempe- offering a unique competition that spans several months and culminates in a grand finale during the Juneteenth Block Party. This annual event is integrated into 2nd Sundays on Mill, and highlights the skill and creativity of six local Arizona barbers as they compete in match rounds, quarterfinals, and semifinals, leading to the ultimate showdown in June 2025. The Barber Battle has become a signature event that celebrates community and talent, drawing crowds eager to witness incredible skill and creativity in action.
But the Downtown Tempe Barber Battle is more than just a competition—it’s a movement that merges tradition, creativity, and advocacy. Beyond the competition lies a deeper purpose: addressing a silent yet widespread issue in communities of color.
The Untold Story Behind the Chair
Barbers, beauticians, and cosmetologists often refer to themselves as “therapists in a chair.” For many clients, these professionals can be trusted individuals who listen to their struggles, grief, trauma and pain. There is a need for early intervention and support systems to help people struggling or in need of mental health resources.
Recognizing this need, the Confess Project of America addresses this issue and are committed to help build a culture of mental health for African American Families. Their groundbreaking mental health advocacy program, Beyond the Shop, equips barbers and stylists with tools to better support their clients by creating safe spaces and connecting them to the care they may need. By offering training, resources, and ongoing support, they empower everyday people and professionals to become community advocates for mental health and support those who are most vulnerable. Watch a video about Beyond the Shop
A First for Arizona
Downtown Tempe Authority partnered with the City of Tempe Community Health & Human Services and the City of Chandler to bring this initiative to Arizona- a first for the state and we couldn’t be more proud to have it in Tempe. This initiative isn’t just about supporting barbers and stylists—it’s about addressing mental health stigma, particularly in minority-owned businesses, and creating lasting change.
This initiative includes two key events, hosted by the City of Tempe Community Health & Human Services & The City of Chandler. Registration is required.
Register here: Beyond the Shop Initiative
Beyond the Shop Mixer - February 2, 2025, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
A free mixer for barbers, stylists, and service providers to discuss ways to reduce mental health stigma, particularly in minority-owned businesses. Located at the EnVision Center.
Mental Health Advocacy Training - February 3, 2025, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m
A free, immersive, 8-hour training program, developed with a curriculum backed by Harvard. Participants will gain skills to connect clients with mental health care providers, making a meaningful impact in their communities. Located at the EnVision Center
Upcoming Barber Battle Competition Dates
Free community event
- February 9, 2025, | 2nd Sundays on Mill | 6th Street & Mill | 10 AM – 3 PM
- April 14, 2025, | 2nd Sundays on Mill | 6th Street & Mill | 10 AM – 3 PM
- June 14, 2025, | Juneteenth Block Party | CenterPoint Plaza | 7 PM – 11 PM
For more information, visit www.downtowntempe.com/secondsundays
Honoring Tempe's FIRST Black Pioneers
Did you know that Tempe's first Black barber was Theodore Thomas, and that we opened his first barbershop in 1906 on 312 S. Mill Ave?
We want to recognize Theodore Thomas as a a pioneer as part of Black History Month, alongside many other pioneers.
Learn more about Black History Month here.
A Movement That Matters
By blending competition, culture, and community advocacy, the Downtown Tempe Barber Battle goes beyond entertainment. It shines a light on the critical role barbers and stylists play in their clients’ lives and empowers them to make a lasting impact and reminds us that meaningful change often begins in the most unexpected places—like a barber’s chair.