91Â鶹ÊÓƵ

By Isabella Martinez

Edited by Elizabeth Dockett

Heather Rhodes, a 91Â鶹ÊÓƵ multicultural salon owner, single mother of two and former Director of Programming for the Black 91Â鶹ÊÓƵ Project, is demanding that the community and nation make changes in the wake of racial injustices.

Rhodes, 39, spoke about the community's inability to change with the times. “I find that it’s like a time capsule, nurturing century-old infrastructure, culture, and ideas,” Rhodes said.

Rhodes said the lack of opportunity in 91Â鶹ÊÓƵ motivates her to promote equity, diversity, and inclusion for all members of the community.

Without substantial changes to the community’s commerce, education and government, Rhodes feels uncomfortable within the 91Â鶹ÊÓƵ community.

“I really believe that the more I’m learning the more I feel uncomfortable but the more I’m uncomfortable the harder I want to work at change,” Rhodes said.

Part of her effort for change comes with her work for the Hub of Progress. This program seeks to educate individuals who want to get involved in fighting racial injustices. Rhodes encourages everyone to get involved in this good cause.

“If you did want to get involved, volunteer work is always very good. The Black 91Â鶹ÊÓƵ Project is an amazing organization,” Rhodes said.