Curlfriends talk. That’s just what we do… and we do it a lot.
We talk about our hairstyles, our love lives, our professional goals, our family ties, and everything in between. But when is it the right time to bring those deep, pain-rooted conversations into the spotlight? You know what I’m talking about… those “Can you believe this is still happening in 2017?” and “Seriously, girl – what is wrong with this world?!” conversations.
According to many of us in the diaspora, the time is now.
If you don’t where to start having these thought-provoking conversations, Cultural Critic and Image Activist Michaela angela Davis has created a space for all of us with The Hair Tales, a video series featuring Regina King, Kim Coles, Tasha Smith, and more women of color.
The Hair Tales: An Appropriation Conversation
NaturallyCurly Social Media Manager Leslie Lozano and I were invited to attend MAD FREE’s The Hair Tales: An Appropriation Conversation, hosted by AFROPUNK during the Takeover Harlem this past weekend (Saturday, February 25, 2017″>, as media partners. To say that it was an honor to be there would be the understatement of the year. Walking into the historic Harlem Stage, both Leslie and I were in awe of the tremendous power in the building.
Black women and men, afros and cornrows, braids and locs all congregated and intermingled. It was actual magic.
If you weren’t able to attend the event in Harlem, you can enjoy this NaturallyCurly Facebook LIVE video we recorded for the community.
WATCH NOW:
Continuing the Hair Tales conversation IRL
In the effort to continue what Michaela angela Davis and her colleagues have started, Leslie and I wanted to take the conversation back to the NaturallyCurly home base in Austin, TX.
We even recorded a Facebook Live session for you all to join in on. Thank you all for watching and participating! If you missed it, don’t worry – check out the quick recap and discussion in the video below!
You’re invited to contribute to the conversation!
We are compelled to contribute to this conversation that is spreading throughout the nation.
Follow and join in the conversations today on YouTube + Facebook + Twitter + Instagram! And remember to sign up for the NaturallyCurly newsletter for more conversations like this one.
This conversation is so much more than words; it’s a movement. Your involvement is imperative. That is why I’m asking you to share your stories with me in the comments section below. Don’t be shy! This is your time to share your experiences with cultural appropriation, race, and your hair in public and private spaces.
I am also inviting you to attend our upcoming dialogue about hair politics and cultural appropriation this April 2017 at the YWCA – Austin. More information about this event will be available soon!
As ever, stay curly!
BONUS: To see behind-the-scenes photographs of the event, follow me on Instagram @rockandcurl now!
