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It's mother's day coming up (19th March 2023). So I'd like to speak on the invaluable bonding experience and memories most black women hold dearly.
Understanding our hair, the texture, the difference, the versatility, the significance, begins at a young age, and usually taught by guardians, mostly mothers/grandmothers. We all will have similar, yet different experiences, whether your hair was plaited up (Guinney, as my grandmother used to say), braided, curly permed (Early 90's for me), or styled with bobbles. Aside from these aesthetics, the mother/grandmother-daughter connection and hair education gained from these hair moments is so important. To black women, our hair is so much more than just hair. It's our identity, linked to our family, culture, ethnicity, creativity, expression and so much more.
I am blessed to have many fond memories of hair from my grandmother and mum. From young I had my hair done at home, I remember wash days in the bath tub, natural hair drying methods with the towel, the afro pick, DAX grease, I also remember the dreaded IRON COMB lol.
Before school and church I would get my hair done in plaits or a nice cute style in bobbles. Definitely a bonding experience, but let my grandmother catch you with your hand in your head and you would feel that 'clap' with the comb! Memories of my mum & grandmother doing my hair include me sitting between their laps, getting the combs and grease ready, washing my hair and the plaiting, me asking questions & listening to the conversations going on or trying to bend up my head to watch what was on the TV.
This bonding experience, looking back taught me hair is precious, how to look after it myself and teach others the same, and to hold it as an important tradition.
To all the mothers and grandmothers out there, wishing you a Happy Mothers Day this year xxx