By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern
Black women have an intricate emotional attachment to their hair. This inclination stems from the aspects of what hair represents to them. In most cases, it is not taken just as an extension of parts of the body, but as a reflection of one’s moods. For most Black women, hair is a symbol of identity. Foundationally, it provides bearings to identify as a strong individual with a critical cultural background. To most individuals from this population segment, hair is a treasure that cannot be ignored. As such, care and attention are given to ensure that it signifies something relevant that runs much deeper.
In the context of appreciating their beauty, most Black women consider their hair an extension of their physical outlook. Thus, it represents an intricate aspect regarding their emotional well-being. Often, hair is taken as part of expressing one’s mental state. It is considered a direct mirror of a Black woman’s mood (Vice Media Group, 2022). The perfectly made hair is perceived as a revelation of one’s happiness and state of pride in who she is and represents. Among Black women, hair is viewed as a connecting element (Vice Media Group, 2022). It brings women together to share their experiences and perspectives concerning society. Therefore, hair’s relevance transcends its aesthetical value.
The time Black women take to wash and care for their hair symbolizes its criticality and the reason behind the emotional attachment. Despite the amount of time required to make it perfect, most Black women do not mind. This inclination is based on hair being a representation of the ancient hairstyles and rituals imported from Africa, and some developed in varied locations following slavery. As such, when Black women braid their hair, they feel an emotional connection to their ancestral past. Thus, based on the above reasons, hair remains a relevant part of Black women’s existence.
Reference
Vice Media Group. (2022). Braids, wigs, & wash day routines: 4 Black women on the meaning behind their hair ritual. Refinery29. Retrieved from https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/black-women-hair-routines-meaning
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