Recently, in conversation someone asked me "what's up with this whole liberation phase on campus?" I chuckled and she proceeded to say, "you started it!"
There will be more on the above statement later, but for now, if you are uncertain what is being discussed, it is that of going natural. If you are still uncertain, this is when a woman (naturally curly, usually black, hispanic, or biracial) makes the decision to stop putting chemicals (also known as relaxers or perms) into her hair and starts to wear her hair in its natural state; hence the term, going natural.
I made the decision to go natural during the spring of my freshman year in college. My hair was continuously breaking off whenever I got a relaxer, it was short and damaged and I just felt like I had nothing to lose. I shared previous thoughts of taking this hair journey with a few friends, but I knew that this was the right time. So, I had my last relaxer in February 2009 and in July 2009 I cut off all of my damaged, straight ends. Initially, I was nervous about the whole thing, but knew that it was for the best. This was a liberating process and I was excited to do something for myself. I was also excited to try different styles because contrary to belief, natural hair is just as versatile, if not more versatile than chemically processed hair.
Since I have cut my hair and rocked my natural roots, I have entertained questions from many people; "why did you cut it," "what products do you use," "can you cut my hair," "is it hard to maintain," "can I touch it?" (the latter is whole 'nother issue in itself-see previous post "Dear Curious Hair Gazer"). Many have also shared that they are considering going natural as well. In all interactions, I provide the same advice; do not cut your hair until you have a plan- know the products you want to use or try and the styles that you will be able to do at different stages of growth, and when all else fails, put in braids to allow your hair to grow out until you are ready to manage it yourself. This is exactly what my mom told me before I cut my own hair. It is not very smart to make such a big change without really planning for it. Going natural is also something that you need to be introspective about. For many women their hair is their crowning glory, so cutting it all off is definitely something that takes getting used to- not for the weak at heart by any means. This is a time when you have to be honest with yourself about your ability to make this significant change and be different.
It is true that within the last 2 years at Lake Forest College, many women have made the decision to rid their hair of chemicals and join the natural community. It is very encouraging to me to see so many women not only making a statement with their hair, but understanding that it is ok to accept what is naturally yours. One day, one of my peers told me that the natural look works for me, but that she doesn't think that she could pull it off. I quickly responded that she could definitely pull it off because it is her hair as it grows from her roots. Many are still under the impression that natural is not acceptable or attractive, but in my opinion, that is when your diva-tude comes in. If you rock your natural hair with confidence, no one else's opinion even matters.
Now, to address the statement that encouraged this post. I do not believe that I started this so called "liberation phase." I did not persuade, force, or encourage different people to cut their hair and go natural. I did not act as if going natural is the only way to be. I do not shun those who continue to relax their hair. What I will take credit for is educating those who shared their interest in going natural with me through tips and resources. I will also take the blame for being a testament to the versatility of natural hair and ways to get creative and use your kinky curls as more than just something growing from your scalp. I will even take the blame for cutting a few people's damaged ends. I find no shame in my contributions to the advancement of the natural world, but I still cannot take full credit for the decisions of others.
When we actually stop and think about it, the chemicals that are found in relaxers (and some hair dyes) are really bad for our hair and sometimes our health. What I believe is happening is that more women are becoming educated about what they are putting into their hair. And rather than just following societal trends, they are doing what works best for them. This is evident not only in the number of people who have gone natural on campus, but in the increased number of celebrities who have done the same (Chrisette Michele, Solange, etc).
When we call going natural a "phase" we are discrediting all of the personal work that goes into being natural. We are also supporting the people and corporations who say that being a naturally curly chick is not acceptable. Rather than calling it a phase, I prefer the term journey. While it can be as simple and you want it to be, it is a very involved process that continues as long as the wearer decides. The best thing about it is, no one has to travel the natural hair journey alone. As usual, I am always open to sharing my experience and offering advice to anyone who is interested.
For any natural inquirers, here are a few of my frequently visited hair resources. Enjoy!
http://nappturality.com/
http://bglhonline.com/
http://www.naturallycurly.com/
http://www.curlynikki.com/
http://thirstyroots.com/
http://www.blackwomennaturalhairstyles.com/
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