HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/4/2023 Item 5b, Loman
Wilbanks, Megan
From:Nalah Loman <lomannalah@gmail.com>
Sent:Wednesday, October 4, 2023 10:37 AM
To:Advisory Bodies
Subject:10/4 HRC Meeting, Item 5B
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Hello,
My name is Nalah and I am a local student and part time R.A.C.E Matters SLO employee. I have been a SLO resident for a
few years but have lived in SLO County for many more. I am writing in support of R.A.C.E Matters SLO's applications to
establish the Shop Talk and Hair Fund programs.
As a young person of color who has not only struggled to find mental health resources but also a community who shares
cultural identity with myself in this city/county-- I envision that the Shop Talk program would facilitate other folks who
have shared this experience to have easy, comfortable access to helpful solutions and for some, may even be a solution.
Furthermore, I think the Hair Fund would be another great addition as R.A.C.E Matters SLO currently occupies a space fit
to provide hair styling services geared towards BIPOC community members who have had what feels like a historical
need for these resources in San Luis Obispo. While cultural hairstyles have become more socially accepted, it can be
expensive and difficult to find a person or place to have them done-- which I believe would make this program a
successful and much appreciated one.
My final reason for supporting the Hair Fund is because of a recent Back to School braiding event in which local children
received free braiding services. Everyone involved-- children, parents, employees, were beaming with joy and I believe it
is an experience more BIPOC community members should have.
Thank you.
Nalah C. Loman
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