Even if we accept the premise that the world is getting better, more understanding, more empathetic, less judgmental, we cannot deny that many folks are still consistently misunderstood and mischaracterized. Stereotypes die hard and so we wanted to create a space to discuss this issues with the hope that these conversations help increase understanding and empathy.

Marquel Wallace | DJ/Producer

I wouldn’t necessarily say I’m misunderstood, I’d rather say I am overlooked and undervalued in a lot of ways. So just to be honest with history, electronic music started and was made by black gays, mainly during the 70’s/80’s but started popping off in 1975. People like me started the movement of EDM but 99% of artists forget that or simply just don’t know. It’s kinda crazy that there’s alot of great black electronic artists out here but we don’t get any respect or time of day because you know. I just wish that I receive the same opportunities as everyone else but not get discriminated because of my skin color. The interesting part of this is, I’m not truly bothered by it because it fuels my desire to show AWARENESS of this and show that black artists, DJs, producers can do this EDM thing too. Read more>>

Sebastian Garcia | Tattoo artist and Business owner

As Tattoo artists we get labeled a lot, we are either tough, strong character, Metal heads etc . Older generations can label you as dangerous, thieves there are so many things people fear from tattoo artists and tattooed people. Throughout the years I feel like the fear has wined down but there are still many misconceptions. As for me, I’m just a regular dude with a kind heart, I love my wife I want to have a family and focus on those around me and extend a hand to those who need help. Read more>>

Blaine Schlaudt | Hair Stylist

As a hair stylist we encounter so many client/hair stylist communication issues. While hair styles are trendy, sometimes they are not right for everyone. As an example, the ultra trendy pastel colors are not for everyone. Sometimes someone will book an appointment and not realize the time of the service and the price. as the service takes several hours and it is not like painting a pink on top of a dark brown hair color. I have had to refuse the service, especially to high school students, because they don’t understand the cost/time of the service. Communication is crucial with the stylist and I have had to turn away clients if the desire is more than the execution would be. Read more>>

Rozie Virani | Hairstylist & Salon Owner

Working in a creative field, I have felt mischaracterized and misunderstood many times. You always here people say “hairstylists are crazy” or comments such as “just a hairstylist” or even people questioning our work schedule and dollar amounts. Many people in my life, whether they realize it or not have thrown passive-aggressive comments my way maybe thinking I don’t notice, but I’m a very observant person. My job doesn’t look like most people. There is no 9-5, clocking out at a certain time, paid holidays, guaranteed paychecks, and PTO. We are not corporate in the slightest and often, I think we thrive off this vision and idea. Our job is done when it is done. We spend nights, evenings, weekends strategically planning our budgets, appointments, inventory, and advancing our education in our expertise. Read more>>