Page 7 - Classimax Magazine - Issue #9

Love Your

HAIR

The history of black

hair care is deeply

rooted in colonialism

and slavery...

Black women have a unique well as the outright prohibition Act (Create a Respectful and
and powerful relationship with of traditional hairstyles such as Open Workplace for Natural

their hair. For many, hair care dreadlocks and cornrows. Hair) was passed in California,
is a form of self-expression, New York, and New Jersey
cultural identity, and political In recent years, the natural hair to protect people from being
statement. It is also a source of movement has emerged as a discriminated against based on
pride and self-care. response to these damaging their natural hair or hairstyles.
beauty standards and a
However, the cultural and celebration of black hair in its In addition to the social and
societal standards surrounding natural state. This movement political implications, hair care
black hair can also be has gained significant traction is also an important aspect of
oppressive, leading to negative and has even led to the creation self-care for black women.
associations and discrimination. of specific hair care products

designed for natural hair. Hair care routines can be
The history of black hair care time-consuming and costly, but
is deeply rooted in colonialism Despite the progress made by for many black women, it is an
and slavery. During these times, the natural hair movement, essential part of maintaining
black people were stripped of black women still face their mental and physical
their cultural identities and discrimination in the workplace well-being. Taking care of
forced to conform to European and in everyday life due to one’s hair can boost self-esteem
beauty standards. This included their hair. This is known as and confidence, and it can also
the use of harsh chemicals and “hair discrimination” or “hair be a form of relaxation and

hot irons to straighten hair, as racism.” In 2019, the CROWN self-expression.