Charlotte, N.C.: Embracing Natural Hair and Defying Expectations
Finding that perfect hairstyle can truly feel like a never-ending quest, especially for women of color. A recent study by Dove shines a light on a serious issue that resonates deeply within the Black community. According to the research, Black women who wear their hair in natural styles—think beautiful curls or stylish braids—are 2.5 times more likely to be labeled as unprofessional. This startling statistic presents a reality that has prompted a staggering two out of three Black women to alter their hair just to land a job. Unfortunately, this societal pressure is something I’ve personally faced.
As someone who has anchored weekend morning shows in Charlotte for nearly two years, I’ve grappled with my own hair journey. To those who might be accustomed to seeing me with straightened locks or perfectly curled hair, my new look—a lovely, bold afro—might come as a surprise. It’s a transformation that I have kept under wraps, but the time has come to share my story.
Rediscovering My Identity
When I spoke with my stylist, Konstance “Koko” Wilson, from Hair Love by Ko, I opened up about my journey. “I feel like I put so much of my identity in my hair and now it’s like finding myself again,” I admitted. After continuously straightening my hair using product heavy treatments, I noticed my hair began breaking off—a wake-up call that prompted me to take action.
Initially, I began to cover my hair with braids and wigs, trying to meet what I felt were societal expectations of professionalism. I said to Koko, “I felt like I had this, sort of, societal expectation that I needed to maintain a certain look to be considered professional.” This situation is unfortunately not isolated, as many Black women share this history of feeling pressured to conform in order to thrive in their careers.
The Weight of Expectations
Michaela Angela Davis, a co-producer of Hulu’s Hair Tales, provides insight into this narrative, noting how many women felt compelled to wear pressed styles as an effort to fit in and get ahead. “For everyone to have pressed hair, meant all those people were trying to get jobs. They were trying to survive,” she said. This idea resonated deeply with me when I reflected on my own career.
Feeling like I needed to disappear, to blend in, was a feeling I can’t ignore. But eventually, with Koko’s encouragement, I found the liberation that came with letting go. “It was so freeing to give myself that permission to cut it off and allow it to be a discussion,” I expressed to Davis.
Journey of Liberation through Hair
Embarking on this exploration led me to take the bold step of what is often referred to as the “big chop.” I reached out to a close friend and shared my desire for change, to which she responded enthusiastically, “Are you serious?” There was something exhilarating about taking such a step towards embracing my authentic self.
From wigs to playful braids, I experimented with various styles before landing on a chic pixie cut. This style not only involved a chemical relaxer but also provided me with an edgy look that felt truly representative of who I am at my core. “Do you like it?” Koko asked after the transformation. “We did it! I do like it. It’s different,” I replied, filled with excitement.
Finding Strength in Vulnerability
These months of experimentation have been incredibly liberating. Speaking candidly about my journey has connected me with other women, each with their own empowering stories related to hair. Hearing their experiences has enriched my understanding and made me realize that I am certainly not alone.
To all the women out there battling similar feelings, my message is clear: “Don’t feel confined to anyone’s expectation but your own.” Allow yourself the freedom to make choices about your hair that speak to your soul. When the time feels right for you, take that leap. What might appear reckless to some could very well be the beginning of your own liberation story.
