Why Sunday Streets is Vital for San Francisco's Community Resilience

What The Closing of Old Mission Barbershop Means For San Francisco's Community

Update Old Mission Barbershop Hangs Up Its Shears After Seven Years The Old Mission Barbershop, a cherished staple at the corner of 21st and Mission streets, is set to close its doors by the end of this month. Owner Omar Nazzal has announced that he must prioritize his health, specifically managing his asthma, which has made operating the shop increasingly difficult. Nazzal, who is 41 years old, has deep roots in the community, having grown up in San Francisco’s Sunset District. The neighborhood holds personal memories for him, along with a strong familial connection; his father’s first store, a linen shop, was located just steps away from his current barbershop, which Nazzal opened in 2018 after a decade in the automotive industry. Creating Community Through a Haircut Nazzal's journey to barbershop ownership began at the age of 29 after deciding to switch careers. He obtained his barbering certification and first worked at Fellow Barber, where he honed his craft and expanded his clientele. With a vision to create an inclusive space that honored the local culture, Nazzal has wielded his scissors to serve both long-time residents and newer arrivals. He envisioned his shop as a refuge for all, a place that offered traditional haircuts at a reasonable cost, with prices designed for the working-class population. At $55 for a haircut and $75 for a combined cut and beard trim, he aimed to keep quality haircare within reach for those in the community. A Bridge Between Generations and Cultures Nazzal has proudly carried his family's legacy, emphasizing the multicultural identity that thrives within the Mission District. Describing the rich tapestry of migration that has defined the area, he recalls, “There were so many people migrating from all different parts of the world, but mostly from Mexico, Central America, and South America.” His mother, a Spanish speaker, played a pivotal role in fostering connections among the diverse clientele, enhancing the barbershop’s role in community building. The Changing Landscape of the Mission With San Francisco's real estate pressures and evolving demographics, Nazzal has witnessed firsthand the transformation of the Mission District. Expressing his concerns for the culture of the area, he remarked, “I didn’t want that side of the Mission to turn into another Valencia, where it lacks cultural essence.” As the neighborhood has transitioned, he has made it a point to refer clients to Mission’s Barbershop at 3160 24th Street, owned by local barber Joseph Guerra, a respected figure in the area committed to community betterment. Three of Nazzal’s barbers will also make the switch to Guerra's establishment, demonstrating a continuity of service and care for clients. The Legacy of Old Mission Barbershop As Nazzal prepares to close the barbershop, he is selling everything from barber chairs to furniture, hinting at not just a closure, but a transition of sorts. He expressed a bittersweet nostalgia as he reflected on his journey: “I’m really sad to shut down but so grateful for the memories and every single person that walked through those doors.” Community Impact and What's Next The closing of Old Mission Barbershop symbolizes the broader shifts taking place in San Francisco, where local businesses face challenges amidst changing landscapes. Even as this chapter closes, Nazzal's dedication to the community remains evident. Local residents are encouraged to keep supporting the vibrant culture through local businesses, emphasizing the importance of nurturing connections in their rapidly evolving neighborhood. Join the Local Movement As Nazzal steps into a new phase of life, the Mission District continues to prove its resilience. If you are a local or someone invested in community well-being, consider visiting neighboring shops and supporting local initiatives. Your choices strengthen the fabric of this beautiful area, ensuring that the spirit of vibrant community life thrives.