U R Welcome: Eddie Burns
“U R Welcome” is the brainchild of Reuben “Big Rube” Harley. It’s a series of interviews with black influencers and tastemakers in Philadelphia discussing race, community and how Philly can be a place where everyone is welcome. When Rube came to Saxbys with the idea, we jumped at the chance to work with him to tell these stories.
“It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without fully accepting it.”
That Aristotle quote resonates deep for Eddie Burns. See things from other people’s perspective. It’ll help you understand where they’re coming from — even if you disagree.
His willingness to genuinely connect with people has shaped his opinions on inclusivity in Philadelphia. It’s also propelled Burns to a successful career implementing self-funded business for AmeriHealth Administrators. He’s also worked with Ralph Lauren, Merrill Lynch, and Vanguard.
Burns sat down with Big Rube to chat about relationships, welcoming, and why people who seem different on the surface are really similar deep down.
Tell me about the power of relationships to promote understanding of cultural differences?
Relationships are more powerful than people think. Get to know people. We’re more the same than you realize. One of my closest friends is a white male Republican. We can have dinner, debate politics, and then later we’re laughing over a cocktail.
What does U R Welcome mean to you?
It’s everyone. Every creed. Every color. Every height. Every weight. Every socioeconomic class can come into a place and feel welcome. I am just as important as the CEO who just picked up his latte. People feel it. You can feel if you’re not welcome. Being totally inclusive and welcoming creates a terrific feeling.
Are you inspired by Philadelphia?
In Philadelphia, especially during this time, there’s a lot of “new.” If you’re in a place where things are constantly changing and becoming new, how can you not be inspired? Everyone is so creative. I’m inspired by everything going on in Philadelphia from the arts to restaurants to fashion boutiques to even all the homes and condominiums that are going up.
How does Saxbys fit into Philly’s welcoming culture?
Everyone knows that in the hood, the barbershop is our country club. You’d hang out even if you weren’t getting a haircut. Saxbys to me has become that. Saxbys is that club you can be part of without paying a monthly fee.
What’s your go-to drink at Saxbys?
A red eye: a dark roasted coffee and a shot of espresso. I get one and I’m good to go.