LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A Little Rock barber is making his way to Hollywood on Friday after a documentary following the story of his life and work was nominated for an Oscar.
“The Barber of Little Rock” follows Arlo Washington, a local barber for more than two decades and also the founder and CEO of the PEOPLE Trust Loan Fund.
The documentary was nominated in the Best Documentary Short category.
“It’s exploring the racial wealth gap in America,” Washington said. “My hope is that it will enlighten and educate the minds of people so they will embrace humanity and be a help to one another.”
As Washington was in the airport with his wife Debony, he said he was thrilled that they were on their way to fly to Los Angeles for the Oscars on Sunday.
“On the way here unfortunately we caught a flat tire,” he said. “It was all these different little things but we’re here now.”
Washington said once they got to the airport they had a chance to take in what was happening.
“It is a pinch-me moment,” Washington said.
He said he is thrilled for the entire Oscar experience.
“We were talking about it the whole time,” Washington said. “I wonder what celebrities we will see, how exciting it will be, will we get a chance to go on the stage.”
Washington said he is excited to also wear his suit on the red carpet.
“I’m an economic warrior so the suit is a tux but it’s different looking so my wife is like you’re looking a little superhero-ish here because of the lapels and everything is different so I’m excited to put it on,” Washington said.
He said he already feels the suspense for what Oscar night will be like.
“When they make the announcements, just the anticipation out of the five short films which one will take home the gold,” Washington said.
Washington said he hopes he inspires others to follow their dreams.
“Just keep going, don’t quit, don’t take no for an answer,” he said.
The 2024 Oscars will be held this Sunday in Los Angeles, California.