The Daily Black Blog

These are the products that are always in my cupboard…my staples that I cannot live without. Give them a try and see what you think! If you haven’t already…add them to your christmas wish list!

As a teenager I went through many stages, but I could not find the right fit. I love being an individual and finally I have found a way to express myself. Natural hair is a lifestyle for many, and I am no exception. The health of my hair is far more important than the length. Length will come. I have been a fotki junkie for 3 years and now it’s time for me to share with those who may not know about fotki or lukalomi. This is the beginning guys, I have much more to show you.

My hair journey from the last 2 years. I been natural since 2004 but I went to the shop on March 15th 2008 and got my hair pressed. The beautician damaged my hair beyond repair. I had to start all over. I didn’t know my hair was damaged and I got it pressed one more time on April 2nd, which is why I consider April 2nd my two year mark. I transitioned by wearing braids. And braids is my go to style when I want to protect my hair. I transitioned about 5 months then big chopped. I still had about 1 1/2 inches of straight ends that I would rod. I eventually trimmed them off.

Despite claims to the contrary, Barack Obama’s presidency does not herald a post-racial America or a new black politics, according to United States Studies Centre visitor, African-American cultural expert, Professor Kevin Gaines. Professor Kevin Gaines is the Director of the Center for Afroamerican and African Studies, and Professor of History at the University of Michigan and visited the United States Studies Centre to discuss the topic of Barack Obama and African American politics.

It seems like a memo has been put out in Hollywood that braids are out and a clean taper or fade is back in. From r and b singers Omarion and Trey Songz who said braids were childish to Black rappers, actors, and even t.v show host who all of a sudden cut either their locks or braids. Now I’ve had both and I know that the upkeep can be a difficult task, sitting there for hours on in with someone messing with your hair. Then, being careful not to mess up your fresh braids or re-twist and carrying du-rags and scarves everywhere you go, so I can understand the convenience. What I don’t understand is when did it become childish? I wondered why did it seem to happen overnight? I have always believed that Black hair in it’s defining texture and strength quietly defies the traditional White ideal of beauty just by existing. I say this because of the good hair/bad hair debate that has plagued the Black community for many years proves that many people still look toward the media and movie’s ideal of beauty. Think about what makes a haircut look neat, compared to braids or other natural hair styles.

Why is nappy looked at as a bad thing when it just means tight-curled hair in a natural state? So does that mean something is wrong with the natural texture of Black hair? We need to love our naps and stop cutting them off and straightening them to be accepted even if it’s just so we can accept ourselves.