Family and Natural Hair

 

About a year ago, newly natural Kourtney Michele sent me a message requesting advice. She had encounter what many of us who have made the decision to go natural encounter; friends and family members reinforce some of societies negative stereotypes.  I believe these stereotypes, myths or misconception at one time possessed some validity but not in this day and time.  Believe it or not your family wants what is best for you and will past on information that they have learned and grown to accept.  When it comes to criticism of natural hair it usually comes from a place of uncertainty or misinformation. And dare I say it low self-esteem.  Many critics will follow their negative comments with  “I can’t do it” referring to refraining from the “white lye”.  To anyone who is experiencing this right now, continue to be encouraged and find positive influences to guide you on this journey.  Here’s Kourtney’s question:

 

Kourtney & I at a Houston Natural Hair Meet-Up.
Find more info about the next event in the event section on
www.naturalhairrules.com

Hey, I recently went natural I really enjoy it I love my new found self confidence and everything that comes with being natural. However my parents, especially my dad disagree with my decision. They feel like my "hair" will effect me when I enter the corporate world. I love my parents with all my heart, but I did this because I wanted to. Did you deal with anything like this with your family?

I believe this question has common place with our community.  There was a time were teeny weeny afros, two strand twist, locs and braids were taboo in the work place.  But many natural women can confirm quite the contrary today.  In response to her question:

 

Kourtney,
My family was seriously questioning my sanity when I big chop. They were negative because all they knew was long relaxed hair as a standard of beauty. Sometimes it takes fam a little longer to embrace naturality and sometimes they never do. It is not responsibility to convince them. It is your responsibility to do what you are doing and love the natural you.
The “natural hair is not acceptable in corporate America” myth is no longer relevant to this time. I wouldn't suggest interviewing with a huge black panther fro but as long as your comfortable with your hair, do you and let your resume speak for you.

 

Early this year I teamed up with a fellow blogger to interview several natural ladies in corporate America to get their take on the subject.  You can view their stories as well as their professional natural hair styles here.