Nailed It? Black Women Express Their Frustration And Experiences With Asian Nail Salons
AFRICA MIRANDA
Africa Miranda is a busy woman. She’s a media personality, an author currently on a book tour, and the host of The Africa Miranda Show. When I inquire if she goes to Asian nail salons, she replies honestly, yes, due to convenience. “I’ll admit this is laziness and lack of planning. I’m usually waiting until the last minute and opt for what’s in my neighborhood.” She saw the altercation at the Brooklyn salon via the Internet and “hated seeing it,” but admits, “I’m not surprised.” While she hasn’t personally had anything to that degree happen to her, she has had some interesting exchanges at the nail salon, specifically in New York.
Her experiences at nail salons may have to do with her attitude. She explains, “I’m also very vocal about what I want. On the handful of times where people were rude, I spoke up and also never went back to that particular salon.” As consumers, we definitely have a choice and our dollars are powerful.
While the difference in language bothers some black women, it doesn’t affect Miranda. “Even with a language barrier, you can tell someone’s energy.” She reasons, “If a person has to touch my body, I need to feel comfortable. If I walk in and no one greets me or the vibe in the shop is ‘off,’ l don’t stay.”