Welcome to “Curl Chronicles”
Welcome to “Curl Chronicles,” a space dedicated to exploring the intricate journey of Black hair—celebrating its beauty, confronting its challenges, and discussing everything in between. This month, writer Shani Hillian reflects on her personal journey of self-discovery through the experience of caring for her daughter’s hair.
A Childhood Memory
I can still vividly recall the first time I had my hair pressed at the tender age of 10, back in the ’90s. As I sat in the salon chair, the heat from the Marcel iron was almost unbearable, but I was excited to see my 3C curls transformed into silky, straight strands. The smell of burnt hair filled the air, yet the allure of looking like my idols, Aaliyah and Monica, was too enticing to ignore. Once the stylist finished, I couldn’t help but run my fingers through my newly straightened hair, and that moment ignited my ongoing quest to straighten my curls, fostering a belief that my natural hair was somehow less beautiful.
The Pressure of Conformity
Transitioning to a predominantly white high school in Voorhees, New Jersey, only deepened my insecurities about my natural hair. Surrounded by peers and media figures who predominantly sported straight hairstyles, I felt an overwhelming pressure to fit into society’s narrow definition of beauty. The media’s lack of representation for curly hair only reinforced the idea that my natural texture was undesirable. I found myself either straightening my locks or opting for protective styles, never fully embracing my authentic hair. Unbeknownst to me, this internalized stigma was drastically shaping my self-image.
A Mother’s Influence
At home, my mother—who juggled the demands of work and family—often suggested braids and protective styles as they were easier for her to manage. While I know she viewed my curls as beautiful, her limited knowledge about caring for natural hair made me feel like my curls were something to be tamed or concealed. Without proper guidance and support, I struggled to appreciate the beauty of my natural texture.
A Transformative Journey
It wasn’t until I began the journey of caring for my daughter’s hair that I truly started to heal and accept myself. Learning how to nurture her coils and kinks opened my eyes to the beauty of our natural textures. As I lovingly styled her hair, I found myself rediscovering the joy and appreciation for my own curls. Caring for her hair became a meaningful self-care practice and a way to reclaim my identity.
Embracing Our Heritage
As I delve deeper into the complexities of Black hair, I’ve come to understand that our hair represents more than just a physical characteristic—it embodies our history, culture, and resilience. Embracing our natural curls is not just an act of self-love; it is a powerful statement of empowerment, celebrating our roots and heritage. As we continue to navigate the ups and downs of Black hair, let us remember that our curls are a magnificent crown, worthy of pride and admiration.
