My spatial analysis highlights disparities in access to Black hair care resources in Edwardsville compared to Fairview Heights, forcing Black residents and SIUE students to travel for culturally specific products, which is inconvenient and costly. This reflects spatial injustice, where resources are unevenly distributed due to factors like demographics, economic barriers, and institutional biases that limit Black-owned businesses’ presence in predominantly white areas. The lack of access affects Black students, faculty, and staff by making daily hair care more difficult while also limiting diversity and inclusivity in the broader community. Addressing this issue could involve financial incentives for Black-owned businesses, SIUE partnerships with local stores, and policy changes to support minority-owned businesses in diverse locations.
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