Two Videos Of Nigerian Author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie Talking About Socio-Cultural & Political Aspects Of Black People's Hair

Edited by Azizi Powell

This pancocojams post presents information about Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and showcases two YouTube videos of interviews that feature Ms. Adichie talking about socio-cultural and political aspects of Black people's hair.

Selected comments from these videos' discussion threads are included in this post.

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The content of this post is presented for socio-cultural purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie for her cultural legacy. Thanks also to all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to the publishers of these videos on YouTube.
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These are only two out of a number of other YouTube videos of interviews with or speeches by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie in which she talks about Black hair.

Although Ms. Adichie wears her hair in almost the same natural style in both of these videos, she wears different natural hairstyles in many of her other YouTube videos that I've watched. In some other YouTube videos, Ms. Adichie wears an African head wrap and in one earlier YouTube video she wears a long natural-looking weave.

Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2018/01/igbos-comments-about-names-beginning.html for a related pancocojams post entitled "Nigerian Igbos' Comments About Names Beginning With "Chi" & Comments About The Frequent Use Of Certain Igbo Names"

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INFORMATION ABOUT CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE
From http://www.cerep.ulg.ac.be/adichie/cnabio.html
"Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie was born on 15 September 1977 in Enugu, Nigeria, the fifth of six children to Igbo parents, Grace Ifeoma and James Nwoye Adichie. While the family's ancestral hometown is Abba in Anambra State, Chimamanda grew up in Nsukka, in the house formerly occupied by Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe. Chimamanda's father, who is now retired, worked at the University of Nigeria, located in Nsukka. He was Nigeria's first professor of statistics, and later became Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University. Her mother was the first female registrar at the same institution.

Chimamanda completed her secondary education at the University's school, receiving several academic prizes. She went on to study medicine and pharmacy at the University of Nigeria for a year and a half. During this period, she edited The Compass, a magazine run by the University's Catholic medical students.

At the age of nineteen, Chimamanda left for the United States. She gained a scholarship to study communication at Drexel University in Philadelphia for two years, and she went on to pursue a degree in communication and political science at Eastern Connecticut State University, where she also wrote articles for the university journal, the Campus Lantern. While in Connecticut, she stayed with her sister Ijeoma, who runs a medical practice close to the university.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie graduated summa cum laude from Eastern in 2001, and then completed a master's degree in creative writing at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore.

It is during her senior year at Eastern that she started working on her first novel, Purple Hibiscus, which was released in October 2003. The book has received wide critical acclaim: it was shortlisted for the Orange Fiction Prize (2004) and was awarded the Commonwealth Writers' Prize for Best First Book (2005).

Her second novel, Half of a Yellow Sun (also the title of one of her short stories), is set before and during the Biafran War. It was published in August 2006 in the United Kingdom and in September 2006 in the United States. Like Purple Hibiscus, it has also been released in Nigeria.

Chimamanda was a Hodder fellow at Princeton University during the 2005-2006 academic year, and earned an MA in African Studies from Yale University in 2008. In 2011-2012, she was awarded a fellowship by the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study, Harvard University, which allowed her to finalize her third novel, Americanah. The book was released to great critical acclaim in 2013.

Chimamanda is now married and has a daughter. She divides her time between Nigeria, where she regularly teaches writing workshops, and the United States."....
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This article continues with a list of awards that Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has received.
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Click https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chimamanda_Ngozi_Adichie for a Wikipedia article about Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

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SHOWCASE VIDEOS
Example #1: Author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie on love, race and hair



Channel 4 News, Published on Apr 10, 2013

Award winning African author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie tells Jon Snow why her latest book Americanah mirrors some of the central issues of her own life; race, immigration and the power of hair.
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Selected comments from this video's discussion thread (with numbers assigned for referencing purposes only)
1. Kai Travelmaker, 2013
"No we can't stop talking about race… There's no such thing as color-blindness." Chimamanda hit the nail on the head! Will be getting my copy of the book."

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2. welll?, 2014
"whats the name of the book?"

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3. ckent ckucklekek, 2014
"Americanah"

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4. diouranke, 2014
"to hear this staunchly british guy talking about his mother wearing wigs and weavesm box braids lol really interesting"

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5. Adam Stein, 2015
"Yeah that was one of my favorite parts of the interview because I felt like he was trying to get out of his comfort zone in a good way. Maybe I'm giving him too much credit though haha"

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REPLY
6. Sharp and Smart, 2017
"The interviewer seemed very condescending on his questions on hair"

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7. Tirsit Endeshaw, 2014
"I really like your saying about the society image 'straight hair is beautiful'... I never thought of it as an influence of the western. what a thoughtful women. I like the way you expressed it as well."

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8. Ishta Kutesa Atukunda, 2014
"L'dOL when she taught him what Afro Kinky is! hehehe..."

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9. Xolisa Mahlakahlaka, 2014
"Jon Snow knows nothing! Why not let the lady complete a single thought?!"

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10. mtnprivy, 2014
"Spending so much time on one's hair means that this person doesn't have more important things to do with her time/money. Of course that is a man's viewpoint. Perhaps there is something more important about hair than I have ever heard articulated. I am sure there are MANY cultural things that white hillbillies (my culture) spend their time on that also seems not really worth the time. I have always had a question in my mind "what is REALLY a good use of my time?" Today I chose to hear this lady talk about "having only one story" and that was absolutely worth my time. We form our habits, then our habits form us.

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REPLY
11. Ikeoluwa Onasanya, 2016
"+mtnprivy That makes soooooo much sense. 'We form habits and then our habits form us.'"

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12. Maryse Matoko, 2017
"mtnprivy African natural hair has been mistreated for centuries: straightened, ironed, despised, shamed. her love for her hair can be paralleled with her love of herself, of Black self-love in a world where the standard for beauty is White, straight hair, blonde and extremely thin. It's way more serious than you think..."

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13. Ant rip, 2017
"Maryse Matoko You are bringing Black American context into hair though..."

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14. Maryse Matoko, 2017
"+Ant rip i'm actually African like Chimamanda. This issue concerns all Black people not just African American people."

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15. bandwagon22, 2016
"I have to rethink doing hair. Former i was seeing it just waste of time and money. However it's culturally rich thing and just like painting creating new. If doing hair is "waste of time" then clearly composing music and painting is too. On the other hand i strongly opposite skin bleaching. It has nothing to do with art and beauty. It's more like a human made cancer."

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16. Yadok Godwill, 2017
"I believe hair is really important because many people judge it as they would with skin colour. People with afro hairs are immediately almost always considered black."

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17. Yadok Godwill, 2017
"I believe hair is really important because many people judge it as they would with skin colour. People with afro hairs are immediately almost always considered black."

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18. Clara Mupepi, 2017
"Jon Snow should probably read her book so he can wake up and STAY WOKE because he's ignorant. I'm not sure why he would think some of his comments were appropriate but as usual, she kept herself poised and sharp. I am thankful that she continues to represent African woman of color with dignity, respect and grace. She should be an inspiration to all men and women."
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Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2018/05/what-stay-woke-really-means-definitions.html for a 2018 pancocojams post entitled What "Stay Woke" REALLY Means (definitions, early influences, & uses)".

Here's a definition for "stay woke" that was quoted in that post:
"From http://knowyourmeme.com/memes/stay-woke
Stay Woke
Part of a series on Internet Slang.
Added 2016 by Ari Spool; Updated February 2018 by Y F.
"About
Stay Woke, derived from the phrase “stay awake,” is an Internet slang term often used to demonstrate the need for awareness of an issue, particularly those relating to social justice or the Black Lives Matter movement. The term is also used ironically in a similar manner to "Wake Up, Sheeple"."

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Example #2: Chimamanda Ngzoi Adichie: "If Michelle Obama had natural hair, Barack Obama would not have won"



Det Kgl. Bibliotek, Published on May 28, 2014

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie tells Synne Rifbjerg how she thinks Michelle Obama's hair influenced the presidential election

Excerpt from a conversation on International Authors' Stage in The Black Diamond, Copenhagen - see the full conversation here http://youtu.be/b8r-dP9NqX8
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Selected comments from this video's discussion thread (with numbers assigned for referencing purposes only)
1. Lizzy Liz, 2014
"So true and sad that hair still holds us back even in the 21st century"

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2. mike58greenberg, 2014
"+Lizzy Afri I never understood that whole hair issue. I've always thought women of color were awesome and i still do"

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3. Lizzy Liz, 2014
"+mike58greenberg Thanks but if you do live in America you must be aware that Afro hair style or texture isn't generally well accepted especially in corporate jobs yet this is how our hair grows naturally. The worst part is that not only "white people" hate afro textured hair & consider it unacceptable but so do many black people also."

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4. The Adventurous Daydreamer, 2015
"+Lizzy Liz I disagree and it's not far that she'd have to carry the burden of racism and how it effects our self image."

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5. Lizzy Liz, 2015
"+T. L. The fact that she is black & has relaxed hair already proves that she carries the burden of racism in a society that ever promotes white/eurocentric standards of hair type in relation to beauty"

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6. The Adventurous Daydreamer, 2015
"+Lizzy Liz True. That's assuming her hair is even relaxed. I'm sure she has a top notch hairdresser that can press her hair just as straight but it's like Ms. Adichie stated, if she were to truly wear her nature textured hair before she lived in the White House, she would not be in there now because our God given hair is viewed as political or some other crap. Smh."

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7. SFtoAix, 2014
"So sad BECAUSE it is true."

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8. Anton Takashima, 2018
"SFtoAix, yes I totally agree!"

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9. mike58greenberg, 2014
"it's a tragedy that SO many feel compelled to straighten their hair. natural is so much cooler, prettier, more down to earth, more honest-looking. it shows a person has the integrity, decency that goes hand in hand with self-respect."

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10. Kelen R, 2015
"+mike58greenberg part of understanding is realizing that the pressure that creates the "feeling" of wanting to straighten hair is of gargantuan proportions."

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11. Isweri Pillay, 2016
"True. He would not have won had Michelle had corn rows. Silly world that we live in."

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12. Moiralyster Lyster, 2015
"I don't think this is true. As an African black woman, kinky hair tends to be painful to comb. So if there is an easier way to make it more manageable, I personally prefer to keep it straightened and relaxed. I personally don't like kinky hair on me because I'm those tender-headed people who actually do prefer the easy way out. I love seeing my friends in their afros, all pretty and stuff, but I personally prefer relaxed hair On Me. Not because I'm trying to fit into a Western sphere, but because I just don't like an afro on me. It has nothing to do with my self-concept of beauty."

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13. Blessing Kabari, 2015
"that is because that is what you were brought up to think about yourself"

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14. Moiralyster Lyster, 2015
"No. I just like relaxed hair on Me. I am not my hair. My mom has an afro and it looks great. I just don't like it On Me. Understand that."

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15. Blessing Kabari, 2015
"+Moiralyster Dibodu if thats what you like thats what you like... i am just saying if you properly take care of your natural hair you will have no issues with it... i know because i am natural."

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16. 13ritalove, 2015
"you don't have to wear natural hair as an afro you can do braidouts twist outs roller sets etc. you can also straighten or blow dry natural hair. A way to comb your hair so it's not painful is to use conditioner when combing your hair. fyi Im going natural and I dont like afro's either."

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17. jademm, 2016
"The notion that kinky hair is "unmanageable" is a false judgment. Nothing is wrong with the hair. You either don't know how to gently manage kinky hair or you find the time it takes to maintain/nurture it is inconvenient. The type of hairstyle you want to display is ultimately your choice but don't kid yourself into believing that choosing to stay natural (or not) doesn't carry any social significance.

As a black woman living in the West, you know damn well that natural Black hair is generally regarded as "problematic". Afro-Caribbean women are being subtly told that it would be better for them to DAMAGE their hair with strong chemicals (i.e. use a relaxer) in order to "fit in" more easily. Why can't society learn to ACCEPT Black hair as it naturally is? Why can't it change expectations and make adjustments to accommodate diversity? Why is handling Black hair so mystifying or challenging to them?? If any woman can spend an hour in the bathroom meticulously prepping for a date (washing & exfoliating skin, styling hair, putting on makeup, polishing nails, putting on outfits, choosing accessories to match) then there's no reason why time can't be properly spent on caring for Black hair instead of always looking for the "easy way out".

I'm all for free expression, comfort and convenience when it comes to personal style. What I do object to are hair standards that go beyond basic hygiene/grooming matters and try to impose conformity at the expense of Black women's health and authenticity. If Black women are being held back from advancement or are seen as "undesirable" due to their natural, God-given hair...society has a problem (there are plenty of Black fashion models and Hollywood stars to prove my point). It's a sad message we're sending to young girls and women. There are MANY natural hairstyles to choose from to suit your taste. You shouldn't have to fry or hide your hair to be accepted."

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REPLY
18. Caroline Njoroge, 2016
"Sibongile Dinaledi Kinky hair is so manageable, very easy for me & alot of versatility! now you are here displaying ignorance & laziness."

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19. Moiralyster Lyster, 2016
"+Caroline Njoroge, I'm not ignorant because I am thoroughly informed about natural hair (My mom has it). If preferring to relax it, is me being lazy, then how does that stop your heart from beating? Why am I okay with you managing your own hair but you're mad because I'm managing mine? Why is this logical? I said it's unmanageable for ME... If you had focused on the part where I said "FOR ME", you could saved yourself some time. But why am I being considerate over how you spend your time when you're being inconsiderate about what I do with my own hair?!"

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20. nomkhosi ncanana, 2016
"@sibongile Dinaledi, the ladies here do not understand that we can all be black but our hair textures are not the same, my natural hair is like kinky to the core, it is so painful to comb we call it steelwool.. you just cannot keep up with it on daily basis"

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21. Nubian Queen, 2017
"Sibongile Dinaledi you're ignorant the fact u like straight hair better on u shows how much u hate yourself it's fine to relax your hair that doesn't make u a self hater but once u find that straight hair looks "better" on you than your own natural texture that grows naturally grows from your head that's self hatred you're in denial I used to be like that a long ass time ago so I should know"

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22. spybubbble, 2018
"Black natural hair is manageable, spray some water on it and it will do anything you ask it to. No excuses. I used to think that too until I really started to pay attention to how Haitians do their hair.
Now instead of putting damaging chemicals in my hair and using heat on it so often, I do cornrows, single braids and other hair designs that don't damage my hair. And on top of that I don't have to worry about my hair getting wet, humidity, or moisture whatsoever because you're so restricted to what you can do with straightened hair. But there's a whole of ten options with natural African hair."

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23. know The Way, 2018
"I never like this woman.. her comments are bulls&&t*.. I think Obama would have won, however some people its in their DNA todo what they prefer.. Look at Nigeria, almost 99% of Nollywood and society is wig and weave central."
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*This word is fully spelled out in this comment

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REPLY
24. Sankara Garvey, 2018
"know The Way sir be precise , she's a fully intelligent women, I don't agree with all she says, but she does make good point."

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25. know The Way, 2018
"Intelligent because she has big degrees, intelligent because she has a world stage, intelligent because of what.. No doubt she is educated, however I agree with about less than 2% coming from her. Once had PHD teacher at Cambridge in the UK, many would swear he was extremely bright, however all I could see was an educated vassal of empty knowledge."

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26. Sankara Garvey, 2018
"know The Way you are deflecting, I ask that you be precise, on what you don't like about her.
FYI I never claimed she's intelligent BC she has " degrees". Every intelligent person knows it doesn't take formal schooling to become intelligent, self education can also make you intelligent.
NOBODY AGREES WITH ANYONE ON EVERYTHING BC THERE IS NO PERFECTION IN ALL OPINIONS"

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27. know The Way, 2018
"I love the fact that's she is a beautiful black woman, however her logic dispels me at times.. How are you going to tell another woman not include wife in her reference their bio, and another woman that if she didn't wear straight hair, her husband would not have won the presidency. Which wife of a Nigerian president, does not a wear a weave? just find it hypocritical."

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28. Sylviane Divine, 2018
"right:-)"

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29. Sylviane Divine, 2018
"Exactly i am agree if i remembered the white people were the one who came with this product that is why they tend to relate this to the history of slavery, where beauty was the relaxed and straight hair . That is why it has alway been a problem...
Anyway as for me i can't just handle the pain and the stress to manage kinky afro hair , and that has nothing to do with my personality or my roots, i am a proud african and my hair does not define me or who i am as a person.
We have different texture of hair some have manageable one some don't, and the bottom line is that it takes time to manage kinky hair and that is not even a topic of discusion. I have to book a whole day for my daughter hair, is painful she cried yet she does not want to shave , she want to relaxe cause she know it willl ease her pain, but i refused just because i want her to make the choice when she is mature enough.. Now it depends on everyone how much time they are ready to put in , call me lazy if you want but i refuse to have kinky hair.
I know many people who went natural for a while and then later run stoped and start with relaxer and straightener again .This just because they couldn't handle it anymore.. More over they are people who really don't have good hair and uses weave to enhance their beauty and to be more confident as a woman.
i am sick and tire of this hair debate, she once said beyonce was the trend that is true but beyonce does braid she does the conrows as well and she has very good hair that has not stop her to do the weave..
Yes if Michele Obama had natural hair Obama wouln't have wont ok ... ,First we do have some black with very nice natural hair.Winnie mandela wore Afro, check Chantal biya wife of camaroon predident , hahahahahh afro is 10 time better than what she has on..
White people do put extension for the volume to, they straighten their hair to those who have curly and don't like it, does that mean they are not proud of their race to?
If we really want to talk natural or embrasse the kinky hair we should even stop all the extension that we used. If you use extension in any form kinky hair , expression or what so ever then you are not natural period..
I love you chimanda and i have a huge respect for you but sorry you are not that natural. stop using the extenssion to if you want to be really natural. My hair my choice and i am not my hair ."

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30. Diana Adhiambo, 2015
" "The frizzy is actually her...you just can't be too black." I love, love this woman's attitude. She keeps it real!"

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31. Anton Takashima, 2018
"Diana Adhiambo absolutely! We need more like her. Clone her"

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32. William Foote, 2017
"Pure definition of a black queen"

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33. thehoneyeffect, 2015
"Chimamanda is so patient with them"

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34. Joch S. Pouk, 2015
"+thehoneyeffect AHAHAH she is so patient. im glad you caught that"

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35. thehoneyeffect, 2016
"microaggressive racism effects employment, healthcare, love of self and others, education and even gets us shot and they are laughing, that crowd was 100% white and painfully ignorant....google exists but they didnt even bother to learn. Empathyless"

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36. Josephine Varghese, 2015
"white people and their ignorance about non-white attributes!"

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Anna, 2017
" "you can't be too Black"
that's so true guys"

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34. Reina Benoir, 2017
"She didn't lie."

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35. Tosin Ademuwagun, 2017
"I agree with this but i also believe some black people would not have voted for Barak Obama or take Michelle Obama seriously if Michelle had corn rows or dreadlocks."

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36. rggunter, 2018
"Tosin Ademuwagun she’s saying this. She didn’t specify about the race of the voters. On the whole, Barack wouldn’t have won. And not that they wouldn’t “take Michelle seriously.” It’s the exact OPPOSITE. Folks would be fearful that she’d be TOO serious. The politics around BW with natural hair is that she is a free woman, a self-aware woman and she will not be controlled."

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37. chuindovu, 2017
"colonization of the mind, its unfortunately the truth ."

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38. Jørg 1, 2017
"It is al about hair isn't it:-) Is this the black female perspective of politics? Embarrassing......."

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39. Kemi Olaleye, 2017
"Jørg 1 of course, one black female speaks out on an issue and she automatically represents the entirety of the black female population🙄
Chimanda has very intellectual views on politics you'd find if we're were to learn more about her instead of making unjustified assumptions based of of a few minute snippet."

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40. Green Orchid, 2017
"Michael Manley former prime minister of Jamaica was married to Beverley Anderson who had an afro. Now she has dreadlocks! Dreadlocks now have been culturally appreciated and appropriated by a diverse global cultures now even in workplace that normally would frown on even skin color is allowing it. Imagine"

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41. Maria Morais, 2017
"Frizzy ? and why is the audience laughing. Chlmamanda was dignified when surrounded by stupidity and ignorance."

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42. Carrina Murphy, 2017
"There are plenty of classy natural hairstyles that Michelle would rock and America would love"

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43. byoung4eva1, 2018
"Smh, that's the point. Why couldn't she wear dreads or an afro and be considered "classy"? And, no, i bet "America", depending on what "Americans" you are referring to, would try to associate them with the black panther party, and/or say they are being divisive. Hell, they already accuse Obama of dividing America, and that's only because he is black, and tried to help bring attention to what black ppl face."

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44. Jerome Chikezie, 2018
"Chi girl is telling it like it is. These truths that you say may make us love one another as black people. More importantly, from your wisdom, deduce the potential and strength we will possess if we stand together as a people."

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45. Nick Costello, 2018
"People don't look at hair. They listen to what comes out of your mouth and what you believe."
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This commenter’s photo is a White man.

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46. spybubbble, 2018
"In a perfect world."

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47. Golda Eshun, 2018
"Yeah isn’t it odd,that the Obama girls never rocked cornrows,
Or Afro’s?"

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48. know The Way, 2018
"I think he still would have won, however, I think people are locked into their slave or colonial mentality. At this point we kill ourselves. Look at Nollywood majority of the women nowadays are bleached, really no need todo this.. but its this colonial mindset. Chimamanda brings up a valuable point, I always wondered why she didn't do such. Black women all over the USA wear natural hair."

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Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Positive References To Black Natural Hairstyles That Were Worn By Attendees At Prince Harry & Meghan Markles' Wedding (With Two Videos Of Meghan Markles As A Child)

Edited by Azizi Powell

This pancocojams post compiles examples of positive references to natural hairstyles (dreadlocks, cornrows, twists, twist outs, braids, or 'fros) that were worn by attendees at the wedding of the Duke & Duchess of Sussex (Prince Harry & Meghan Markle) on May 19, 2018.

In particular, this compilation documents how different terms were used to refer to the same hairstyles- for instance, in various articles or comments Meghan Markles' mother Doria Ragland's hairstyle was referred to as "dreadlocks", "twists", or "twist outs"- which aren't the same hairstyles.

Also, tennis champion Serena Williams' hairstyle was referred to as "braids" or "cornrows" which again are two different hairstyles - although some people might (correctly?) say that she wore both hairstyles. However, Serena's hairstyle was also referred to as "braided cornrows and thigh-length Senegalese twists" and twists aren't the same as braids.

The Addendum to this post also showcases two videos of Meghan Markle as a child.

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The content of this post is presented for historical and socio-cultural purposes.

All content remains with their owners.

Congratulations and best wishes to the Duke & Duchess of Sussex and thanks to all those who are mentioned in this post. Thanks also to all those who are quoted in this post and thanks to the publishers of these videos on YouTube.
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Visit http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2018/05/article-excerpt-about-andre-walkers.html "Article Excerpt About Andre Walker's Hair Typing System And Selected Black Natural Hair Care & Hair Styling Terms" for definitions of the natural hair terms that are used in this post.

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EXAMPLES OF POSITIVE REFERENCES TO NATURAL HAIRSTYLES (DREADLOCKS, CORNROWS, TWISTS, TWIST OUTS, BRAIDS, OR 'FROS) THAT WERE WORN BY ATTENDEES AT PRINCE HARRY & MEGHAN MARKLES' WEDDING

Pancocojams Editor's Note: These excerpts are given in no particular and are numbered for referencing purposes only. I'm interested in documenting the terms used as references for these hairstyles as well as some of the comments made about these hairstyles.

These selected comments purposely don't include any racists and/or otherwise negative examples. Among those racists comments were those that equated one or more of the attendees with monkeys or gorillas; those that indicated that cornrows should be named "cotton rows"; and those that indicated hairstyles styles being dirty, smelly, and/or ghetto.

References to these hair styles are given in italics to highlight these sentences.

Excerpt #1:
From https://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/20/arts/television/meghan-markle-royal-wedding-blackness.htmlhttps://www.nytimes.com/2018/05/20/arts/television/meghan-markle-royal-wedding-blackness.html Meghan Markle and the Bicultural Blackness of the Royal Wedding
...Despite [Meghan Markle's mother] Ms. [Doria] Ragland’s being the sole member of Ms. Markle’s family at the wedding, we still know so little about her. In contrast to the media obsession with Ms. Markle’s father and his children from his first marriage, Ms. Ragland is a bit of a mystery who rarely gives interviews. As a result of her silence, we are left to deduce meaning from her physical image. As she sat across from the British monarchy in her pale green Oscar de la Renta dress and coat, it was the symbolism of her long dreadlocks, quietly tucked underneath her hat, that spoke volumes as it reminded us that black women’s natural hair is regal too.

[...]

But, for me, it was the awesome power of the Kingdom Choir — the Christian gospel group from southeast London — and its leader, the renowned gospel singer Karen Gibson, that captivated me. They did not simply give us a rollicking rendition of Ben E. King’s “Stand by Me,” but rather showcased the sheer breadth of a trans-Atlantic black identity. Against the muted tones of their beige and mauve clothing, the various hues of their brown complexions, the complexity of their hairstyles (ranging from twists to cornrows to straightened hair) and their expert use of the African-American songbook stood out even more.

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Excerpt #2:
From https://www.essence.com/hair/royal-wedding-meghan-markle-mom-doria-ragland-locs-nose-ring Meghan Markle's Mother Stunned With Her Nose Ring And Locs In A Twist Out At The Royal Wedding
Siraad Dirshe, May, 19, 2018
One of the many reasons we were excited to watch Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's wedding was to see how Doria Ragland (Meghan's mom) stunned. As the mother of the bride, there was no doubt she'd show up looking absolutely gorgeous.

And that she did!

[…]

Fresh glowing skin, a slight smokey eye, and a nude lip comprised the look de jour. As for hair, Mama Ragland's shoulder length locs, she wore a twist out and pulled them away from her face. But the beauty accessory we couldn't get enough of was her nose ring."...

****
Excerpt #3:
From http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-5745941/Doria-Ragland-debuts-new-hair-heels-ahead-Royal-wedding.html Doria's new look: Mother of the bride debuts new hair and heels as she joins Meghan at Cliveden House Hotel just hours before the Royal wedding
By Unity Blott For Mailonline, PUBLISHED: 13:48 EDT, 18 May 2018 | UPDATED: 18:08 EDT, 18 May 2018
“It was her first official appearance as the mother of the bride.

And Doria Ragland debuted a dramatic new look tonight as she arrived at Cliveden House Hotel with her daughter Meghan Markle tonight.

The yoga instructor and social worker, who wore her hair tied back as she jetted out of Los Angeles earlier this week, appeared to have styled her hair into soft twists, tied back with a silk scarf.

[...]

[photo caption]
New look: The yoga instructor and social worker, who wore her cornrows tied back as she jetted out of Los Angeles on Friday, wore her hair down in soft twists, tied back with a scarf.

****
Excerpt #4:
From https://www.essence.com/hair/serena-williams-royal-wedding-braids-cornrows-senegalese-twists Serena Williams Slayed In Cornrows And Senegalese Twists For The Royal Wedding
MICHELLE DARRISAW May, 19, 2018
"Serena Williams was the epitome of #HairGoals at the royal wedding.

The new mom arrived at Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s ceremony at Windsor Castle on Saturday, along with her husband Alexis Ohanian, looking like American royalty in a blush pink, draped Versace dress that hugged her curves. But it was her fresh braided ‘do we couldn’t stop staring at.

Just before the wedding, Williams took to Instagram to show off her braided cornrows and thigh-length Senegalese twists, which were pulled up into a high ponytail and topped with a matching, sculptural fascinator. Needless to say, it was a standout cultural moment that was met with praise from both Williams and fans alike on social media.

“Look at my braids, I’m wearing braids! Yasss!” Williams said on her Instagram story, as she documented her wedding-day prep with Ohanian and her daughter.


Y'ALL SERENA IS WEARING BRAIDS!!!!!!! I REPEAT, SERENA WILLIAMS IS WEARING BRAIDS!!!!!!!! #RoyalWedding

5:38 AM - May 19, 2018

Halfwaybougie
@halfwaybougie
Loving all the locs, twists and braids at the #royalwedding come thru @serenawilliams 🙌🏾🏆

7:59 AM - May 19, 2018

Markle’s mom Doria Ragland also rocked her locs at the star-studded affair, and 36-year-old Williams gushed about her friendship with Markle as she was getting ready on Instagram.

[...]

And honestly, we’re happy we just found a new protective style for summer. Slay, queen Serena!"
-snip-
"Fascinator" = a term for a hair accessories/ hair sculpture that is worn in women’s hair for formal events such as the Kentucky Derby or traditional English weddings

****
Excerpt #5
From https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/meme-perfectly-illustrates-amazing-serena-williams-wore-cornrows-royal-wedding-013749491.html Diversity Of Looks
Serena Williams worn cornrows to the royal wedding

This meme perfectly illustrates why it was so amazing that Serena Williams wore cornrows to the royal wedding
by Maggie Parker Mon, May 21 9:37 PM EDT
"In case you somehow avoided the royal wedding, we should tell you that one of the aspects people cannot stop talking about is how diverse the beauty looks were compared to past royal events.

Of course, with Meghan Markle’s biracial background, some racial diversity was guaranteed. What caught everyone by sweet surprise, however, was that the diversity went far beyond the Duchess of Sussex. From the black gospel choir to the bishop who quoted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in his sermon, black heritage was proudly referenced. And while Meghan’s hair was in a popular low messy bun for her big day, some of her guests wore more creative ’dos. Serena Williams rocked long cornrows with a perfect pink fascinator, and Meghan’s mom, Doria Ragland, wore her hair in shoulder-length dreadlocks. Some of the gospel singers of the Kingdom Choir, which performed at the ceremony, wore their hair in fancy cornrowed updos, and others wore theirs in loose natural ’fros.

All of these women looked absolutely stunning and sophisticated...


Some see this as a major moment for black hair. A meme was created featuring Williams at the wedding with the caption, “If an employer/school ever makes a comment about your twits [sic], braids, or cornrows please reply with, ‘if it’s good enough for a royal wedding, it’s good enough for you.’” The meme has been shared on Instagram and has over 8,000 likes. It also features photos of Ragland, other African-American wedding guests like Oprah Winfrey, and a video of the choir showcasing members’ hairstyles, including conductor Karen Gibson’s gorgeous gray, braided updo.


Mae 🌻💛
@mmdotk
19 May
My daughter excitedly said to my mother, on seeing Doria Ragland: she has hair like yours 😭😭💗❤️🖤 #RoyalWeddding pic.twitter.com/iSPXj65JeK


TJartist
@TheTJartist
Our beautiful black hair(all styles, lengths and textures) was on display as elegant and acceptable for the occasion at a Royal Wedding.

Yooooo I was BEYOND that Serena wore rows!! With the long pony!! Yaaassss #blackgirlmagic,” one user commented on the post. “I noticed all of the black women’s hair! Twist, Braids, Locks, Nature Hair*, Relaxed Hair!! Let’s not forget the nose ring we have been always told by society that if our hair wasn’t a certain way it was socially unacceptable by the European standards! But this historical moment says otherwise! ” said another follower. “Our beautiful black hair (all styles, lengths and textures) was on display as elegant and acceptable for the occasion at a Royal Wedding,” someone tweeted. “My daughter excitedly said to my mother, on seeing Doria Ragland: she has hair like yours #RoyalWeddding.”

Shonda Rhimes shared a similar sentiment. “My 4 year old upon seeing Meghan Markle’s mother: ‘Mommy, the Queen is so beautiful!’ Me: ‘Yes. Yes, she is.’ She never once noticed any other Queen in the room. My work here is done.”

Gray’s point was proven last year when the Perception Institute found that white women demonstrate the strongest bias — both explicit and implicit — against textured hair, rating it as less beautiful, less sexy or attractive, and less professional than smooth hair.

But it’s not just natural black hair that is unaccepted; cornrows, braids and dreadlocks are far too often characterized as low-class and dirty. Remember the white mother who called her biracial daughter’s cornrows ugly and insinuated that the look was “too black?” Then there was the Banana Republic employee who faced discrimination over her braided hairstyle and was told by her manager that her look was inappropriate for working on the store floor. Two years ago, 9-year-old soccer player Aubrey Zvovushe-Ramos was unexpectedly pulled from the lineup by the referee because of the beads in her braids. And no one will ever forget when E! host Giuliana Rancic said on air that Zendaya’s dreadlocks made her smell “like patchouli oil. Or weed.”

So, as the meme points out, it’s important for the world to see that black hairstyles can be formal, sophisticated, and chic. “The meme does bring up a valid point: my locs/fro/curls are good enough for royalty but not good enough to clock in at my cubicle or be the CEO?” Gray argued. “But I also hope this brings awareness that whiteness (or proximity to it) is not the tool to measure beauty.” In other words, she said, it should not be up to white people to decide which black hairstyles are “acceptable.”
-snip-
“nature hair” probably a typo for “natural hair” meaning usual Black African hair texture [type 4] worn in its natural state without any heat or chemical treatments

"relaxed hair" = hair that is straightened by chemicals or by heat

Here's the link for the Instagram link mentioned in that article is https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi9xeuBga3_/?utm_source=ig_embed
-snip-
Here are some selected comments from that article's discussion thread (with numbers assigned for referencing purposes only)
1. 124Wiseone, May 22, 2018
"I think African Americans have often yielded to the comfort of whites. Perfect example is how some feel about the African American hair versatility. as reflected in the comments. A lot of the braids are amazing art. They are geometrically balanced. They are really a work of art. When Bo Derek wore them whites especially were in awe. But, for some reason Black hairstyles seem to be a threat to some whites. If you can't appreciate the versatility in Black hair, that's fine, but don't insult people. There is a certain comfort and freedom when African Americans do not conform to the comfort of whites."

**
Reply
2. TERRY, May 22, 2018
"Everything in black culture is a threat to white people. They are insulted that we even exist."

**
3. 124Wiseone, May 22, 2018
"@TERRY you can tell by the thumbs down replies."

**
4. Neverchange, May 22, 2018
"Black women wore their natural hair at the Royal Wedding of Prince Hary and Meghan Markle and they knocked those styles right out of the ball park. Black women ROCK!! I am ecstatic!"

**
5. Tara, May 22, 2018
"awww the jealousy here is hilarious...white women try to put their hair in braids and cornrows all day every day and claim credit for the trend, those are your wives, daughters and mothers.... lol bless your little hearts, hate what can't understand or have....so typical, especially the yahooligans...its ok, your daughter will be wearing the soon enough lol and the dreads you guys try to copy...but then you guys always steal from other cultures and then try to claim at as your own...again, typical

**
6. Betty, May 22, 2018
"I was oblivious to the whole hair thing. I'm white and have naturally curly hair - after the torture of the feathering stage in the late 70's I gave up and embraced HUGE 80's hair, 90's spiral and working woman shorter waves. It's too exhausting to fight what parents mix up and spit out, your features are your features and they are beautiful. I'm glad black women are finally able to enjoy their hair!"

**
7. TERRY, May 22, 2018
"As a black woman I would like to advise the writer of this article that Serena wore braids not cornrows. There is a difference."

**
8. Willie, May 23, 2018
"This article is about corn rolls but it forgot to mention the big weave braid she was sporting."

****
YOUTUBE VIDEOS THAT SHOW THE HAIRSTYLES MENTIONED IN THE COMMENTS ABOVE AS WELL AS SOME ADDITIONAL VIDEOS OF PEOPLE MENTIONED IN THOSE COMMENTS
Example #1: Emotional moment Prince Charles grabbed Meghan's mom Doria's hand, she belonged to the family



Hot news 24h Today, Published on May 21, 2018

Emotional moment Prince Charles grabbed Meghan's mom Doria's hand, she belonged to the family
Two people’s hands reaching for the other, and a warm smile. And from the way that Doria Ragland’s face lit up, she suddenly felt safe, no longer lonely in St George’s Chapel....

****
Example #2: Meghan's mom is staying at Kensington Palace with her & Harry for wedding preparations



Royal Insider, Published on May 10, 2018

Meghan Markle’s mother has arrived! Doria Ragland flew to London to help her daughter prepare for her upcoming wedding to Prince Harry, Us Weekly confirms.
The yoga instructor, 61, is staying at Kensington Palace with Harry, 33, and Markle, 36. A source tells Us that Ragland will meet the entire royal family — including Queen Elizabeth II, Prince Charles, Prince William and Duchess Kate — in the next few days, along with her ex-husband, Thomas Markle, who is scheduled to land in the U.K. later on Thursday, May 10.

The source adds that Ragland and Thomas will attend a private rehearsal at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle next week. The former actress’ best friend Jessica Mulroney will arrive in London on Monday, May 14.

****
Example #3: Stand by Me' performed by Karen Gibson and The Kingdom Choir - The Royal Wedding - BBC



BBC, Published on May 19, 2018

****
Example #4: Choir members react to royal wedding performance



CBS News, Published on May 20, 2018

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Example #5: Royal Wedding 2018: Serena Williams stuns in floral Valentino gown in her second look of the night



NEWS LIVE, Published on May 19, 2018

Royal Wedding 2018: Serena Williams stuns in floral Valentino gown in her second look of the night.
As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped out in their elegant outfit changes to celebrate their we .....

****
Example #6: Royal wedding cellist: Teenaged musician Sheku Kanneh-Mason wows guests



CBC News, Published on May 20, 2018

The royal wedding cellist, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, 19, played three songs for guests as Harry and Meghan signed the register.
-snip-
Although most of the comments in this post referred to Black women who attended the royal wedding, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, the cellist who performed at the wedding should also be included in this post as he "sported" a 'fro.

Also, click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2018/05/bishop-michael-currys-wedding-sermon.html for a pancocojams post about Bishop Michael Curry who delivered a sermon at the royal wedding. Bishop Curry also had a 'fro.

****
ADDENDUM- TWO VIDEOS OF THE DUCHESS OF SUSSEX (FORMERLY MEGHAN MARKLE) AS A CHILD
1. See Meghan Markle When She Was an 11-Year-Old With Pigtails



Inside Edition, Published on Nov 27, 2017

****
2. See Meghan Markle on ‘90s Nickelodeon Show After Protesting Sexist Commercial



Inside Edition, Published on Nov 30, 2017
-snip-
These videos certainly seem to indicate that Meghan has her hair "relaxed". meaning she has her hair straightened.

In the late 1960s and 1970s and beyond that time some Black people postulated that whether people of Black descent wore their hair straightened or un-straightened (i.e. in a "natural" hairstyle) was an indicator of how "conscious" they were. "Conscious" her meant and means the same thing as the contemporary African American Vernacular English term "woke"- "to be aware of (alert to) and to work toward issues concerning social justice and racial justice, particularly as they concern Black and Brown people.

Acceptance of Black natural hairstyles is important for many psychological and socio-cultural reasons and it is good to see Black people and other populations recognizing that natural hairstyles can be beautiful. However, hopefully, we have grown past that time when wearing straightened or natural hairstyles are indicators of a person's "consciousness" or state of being "woke".

I believe that, inadvertently, the Duchess of Sussex, formerly Meghan Markle, will help reinforce this point.


****
Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Five YouTube Hair Styling Videos For Females With Type 3 Or Type 4 Hair (The Most Common African American Hair Types)

Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part II of a two part pancocojams series on an African American hair typing system and video examples of those hair types.

This post showcases several tutorial or hair styling several videos for females with type 3 and type 4 hair.

Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2018/05/article-excerpt-about-andre-walkers.html for Part I of this pancocojams series. Part I also includes some definitions for Black natural hair care and hair styling terms. That post also includes some definitions for Black natural hair care and hair styling terms. By "Black natural hair" I mean type 3 and type 4 hair that is in its natural state (without the addition of heat or chemicals).

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The content of this post is presented for cultural and educational purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to all those who are featured in and who published these YouTube videos.

****
SHOWCASE VIDEOS
Example #1: Night to Morning Natural Hair Routine



Mini Marley, Published on Jul 2, 2015
-snip-
Some people use twists to develop dreadlocs. If so, they wouldn't "take out" their twists.

A commenter wrote that she's noticed the pineapple nightly hair care custom (putting her hair up and covering the back and sides of the hair with a scarf has also been used as a daytime hair style for some females.
-snip-
I think that this video blogger (vlogger) has type 4b or 4c hair (or a combination of both 4b and 4c hair).

****
Example #2: Yemi Alade inspired detailed hair tutorial. #3/5 Fulani



Hair By Habiba, Published on Sep 15, 2016
-snip-
Yemi Alade is a famous Nigerian Afrobeats singer. Click that name for pancocojams post on that singer.

Here are some selected comments from this video's discussion thread:
KeeNa Makiba, 2017
"How would someone with 4C or 4B hair achieve be this look with not having long hair like ur daughter?"

**
REPLY
. Hair By Habiba, 2017
"Just use some kinky textured extensions or even Marley hair ! Hope this helps 😀"

**
REPLY
KeeNa Makiba, 2017
"Hair By Habiba
Ok thank u very much ..I have very short hair and I love this video very much very helpful ..I'm going to try this style for a concert...I'm just starting out natural hair style..so this style will be my first!"
-snip-
These comments document the way that some Black people are reclaiming the word "kinky" which once was (and often still is) considered a very negative descriptor of [a lot of] Black people's hair type (texture). "Kinky" means "full of tight curls". Type 4 hair is the most tightly coiled (curled) hair texture.

In my opinion, "tightly curled" is probably a more socially acceptable way for people-especially non-Black people - to refer to this hair type.

Note that people (like me) can have more than one type of hair in different parts of their head. For instance, some strands of my hair in the front and the sides are relatively straight and the rest of my hair is tightly curled. So maybe my hair types are 3b & 4a or 4a & 4b. By the way, I didn't really know what my real (natural) hair texture* looked or felt like until I began wearing my hair naturally (in an Afro) when I was 17 years old.

*Back in the day (in the 1950s t0 1970s) Black people used to refer "good hair" and "bad hair". "Good hair was hair textures that most White people had/have (now refer to as "type 2" and "type 3" hair textures). "Bad" hair was hair like most Black people had/have (now called "type 4" hair textures.) We (Black people) used to refer to people's "grade" of hair rather than type or texture of hair.

I think the hair type of the girl in this video has 3a or 3b or 3c hair.

Also, "Marley Hair" that is mentioned in one of these comments is a specific brand of fake hair that is sold for extensions (weaves).

****
Example #3: 10 Quick and Easy Hairstyles on Natural Hair - 3B/3C



Jasmine D, Published on Oct 18, 2015

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Example #3: 6 Cute Ways to Style Your natural TWA 3c 4a 4b & 4c friendly



DISCLAIMER: The small white buds in my hair is the build up of both products used( gel and leave in conditioner). When 2 products don't have the same base they don't mix well.

DETAILS
Hi Guys, So today i decided to show you 6 styles I do with my TWA. For everyone who has a Teenie Weenie Afro knows its difficult to style it, because its so short and you don't know what to do with it. Been there Done that. I got sick of the regular curly fro after a week so I started to play around and experiment with my hair and came up with these 6 styles. They're different and easy to achieve. I hope this video helps.

1.) The Wash N Go Revival is reviving my 4 day old wash n go. I do his by applying water to reactivate the product already in my hair.
2.) The Side Part is pretty self Explanatory, lol.
3.)The Afro is my curls and kinks being picked out.
4.)The half up is like wearing back fro but instead I sleek the sides down and pin the top half up.
5.) The back Fro is my edges sleeked back but the back of hair is in an Afro.
6.) The Sleek Slick Back is brushing ALL of hair down and to the back.

xoxo
Markia Daily

Products Used:
Spray bottle ( filled with water)
Cantu Shea Leave In Conditioner
Detangler comb
Soft Bristle Brush
Hard Bristle Brush
Olive Oil ECO Styler Gel

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Example #4: 7 NATURAL HAIRSTYLES (For Short to Medium Length Natural Hair) (4B/C Hair)


Healthy Afro Hair, Published on Mar 23, 2018

Natural hairstyles created on my natural hair. So this is the first hairstyles video I’ve done on my channel since going natural.

By the way, prior to styling my hair I used a small amount of the following products for some of the styles;

1. Water
2. Aunt Jackies Knot On My Watch Instant Detangling Therapy
3. Eco Style Black Castor & Flaxseed Oil Gel.

These are not shown in the video, as the main focus was on the hairstyles and NOT products. So feel free to use ones of your choice.

Let me know which one(s) you like best!

Hope you enjoy the video 😊

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Example #5: Perfect Twistout EVERYTIME on Type 4 Natural Hair // Lasts 7 Days+



Halfrican Beaute, Published on May 2, 2018


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This concludes Part II of this two part series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Article Excerpt About Andre Walker's Hair Typing System And Selected Black Natural Hair Care & Hair Styling Terms

Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part I of a two part pancocojams series on an African American hair typing system and video examples of those hair types.

This post provides text only information about the Andre Walker hair typing system with a focus on its descriptions of the most common African American hair types: type 3 and type 4 (with type 3c and type 4c additions).

This post also includes some definitions for Black natural hair care and hair styling terms. By "Black natural hair" I mean type 3 and type 4 hair that is in its natural state (without the addition of heat or chemicals).

Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2018/05/five-youtube-tutorial-or-hair-styling.html for Part II of this pancocojams series. Part II showcases five hair styling several videos for females with type 3 and type 4 hair.

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The content of this post is presented for cultural and educational purposes.

All copyrights remain with their owners.

Thanks to Andre Walker for devising this hair typing system and thanks to those who added the other two hair type descriptions to that system. Also, thanks to all those who are quoted in this post.

****
INFORMATION ABOUT ANDRE WALKER'S HAIR TYPING SYSTEM
From https://www.curlcentric.com/hair-typing-system/
The Only Hair Typing System Article You’ll Ever Need by KENNETH
"What’s your hair type? Are you a 3b or 4A hair type? Maybe – that is if you decide to use one well-known hair typing system. Your hair type could also be an “OS” or an “IS” according to a different hair typing system.

We’re asked very often about hair typing systems. More specifically – many naturals are interested in how to determine their hair type. Generally speaking – we don’t discuss hair typing very often because there are many things that each person must do to care for their hair regardless of their individual hair type.

Having said that, we do recognize that there are some differences associated with caring for certain types of hair. Furthermore, many women utilize hair typing systems to describe the way their hair looks.

I think it’s important to be clear about a few things before we begin discussing hair types. There are multiple hair typing systems – including the Andre Walker Hair Typing System, LOIS, and FIA’s Hair Typing System.

We don’t endorse or recommend any particular hair typing system, however, we recognize that the system created by Andre Walker is substantially more popular well-known and communicated than the other hair typing systems.

Note: This doesn’t imply that Andre Walker’s system is necessarily the best or most accurate.

During this guide I will discuss very specific details associated with the most popular hair typing systems – beginning with Andre Walker, then LOIS and finally FIA.

Disclaimer: It’s very easy to incorrectly determine your hair type if you only look at the pictorial representations that have been provided. Please don’t rule out a particular hair type simply because your hair doesn’t look like the pictures below.

Andre Walker Hair Typing System

Andre Walker is famously known for creating a hair typing system or infamously known depending on your perspective. Andre reveals his hair typing system in a book titled Andre Talks Hair!.

Andre makes it very clear in his book that everyone has good hair regardless of ethnicity. He was hoping to immediately debunk the often ridiculous good hair vs. bad hair debate prior to diving into a discussion about hair typing.

Unfortunately, many people believe that Andre’s Hair Typing System is hierarchical and intentionally places kinky hair in the bottom (“worst”) category. Andre has made statements over the years that have offended many Type 4 women – including the following comment:

Andre Walker on Type 4 hair: “I always recommend embracing your natural texture. Kinky hair can have limited styling options; that’s the only hair type that I suggest altering with professional relaxing”. Type 4 hair types include the most common hair types found in black hair.

That statement started a tremendous amount of buzz on the internet. He later issued a statement to clarify his initial comments immediately following the Elle article on his personal website. Regardless of his original intentions, his comments definitely offended many women.

Even if you have a negative opinion of Andre Walker, I encourage you to read the book yourself and develop your own opinion of his hair typing system in Andre Talks Hair!. Andre’s system isn’t communicated accurately on many popular blogs that have written articles about the system. Having said that, let’s discuss the hair types defined in Andre Talks Hair!.

[...]

Type 3: Curly Hair
Type 3 Curly Hair: Curly hair textures have a definite “S” shaped curl pattern. Since the cuticle doesn’t lay flat, you will notice that curly hair isn’t nearly as shiny as Type 1 (straight hair) or Type 2 (wavy hair) hair types.

Type 3A hair is very shiny and loose.
Type 3B hair has a medium amount curls, ranging from bouncy ringlets (spiral like curls of hair) to tight corkscrews (spiral-shaped corkscrew curls).
Type 3C hair isn’t a part of the Andre Walker Hair Typing System. Please see the “what’s missing” section below for more information.

[...]

Type 4: Kinky Hair
Type 4 Kinky Hair: Type 4 is “kinky” or more appropriately full of tight coils (tightly curled hair). Typically, Type 4 hair is also extremely wiry and fragile. Often times, it appears to be coarse, however, it is really very fine, with several thin hair strands densely packed together. Note that type 4 hair is one [of] the most common hair types found in black hair (African American hair).

Type 4A hair is full of tight coils. It has an “S” pattern when stretched, much like Type 3 curly hair.
Type 4B hair has a less defined pattern of curls and looks more like a “Z” as the hair bends with very sharp angles.
Type 4C hair isn’t a part of the Andre Walker Hair Typing System. Please see the “what’s missing” section below for more information.
What’s Missing? Now, Let’s Discuss Hair Type 3C and Type 4C

You’ll notice that Type 3C and Type 4C hair types aren’t mentioned in the discussion above, that’s because they were not included in the original Andre Walker system.

Type 3C was created after Andre Walker released his hair typing system by a community member at NaturallyCurly.com. The prevailing thought was that the original hair typing system left this hair type out. Consequently, Type 3C hair has been defined as tight curls or coils that look like corkscrews.

Type 4C, like Type 3C, isn’t an actual hair type according to Andre Walker’s Hair System. His comments are actually very simple regarding Type 4 (Kinky) hair – if you can see a definite curl pattern, then you have Type 4A hair. If you can’t identify a defined, specific curl pattern, then your hair type is 4B. I would imagine that the Type 4C hair type was created by a member within the natural hair community – just like the Type 3C hair type."...

This article includes descriptions of type 1 and type 2 in Andre Walker's hair typing system. This article also includes information about two other hair typing systems.

****
SELECTED BLACK NATURAL HAIR CARE AND HAIR STYLING TERMS
Pancocojams Editor's Note: Definitions for some of these terms are found in more than one excerpt.

Update: May 23, 2018- Excerpt #5 added

Excerpt #1:
From https://www.asiamnaturally.com/glossary.html
GLOSSARY OF NATURAL HAIR CARE TERMS
"Bantu Knots- A hairstyle created by carefully and precisely parting hair in small-to-medium sections, and then twisting the sections in one direction until they wrap into neat knots. The knots are often secured near the scalp with bobby or hair pins.

Bantu Knot Out- A style, with a highly defined curly or wavy texture, created by releasing Bantu Knots after they are dry.

BC (Big Chop) - Cutting off all relaxed or chemically-treated portions of the hair, leaving only natural-textured new growth.

BNC (Braid-n-Curl) - A style created by plaiting or braiding the hair while wet, and then curling the ends with rollers or flexi rods. After the hair is dry, the braids and rollers are removed to reveal a wavy and curly hair texture.

Coils- A hairstyle achieved by taking small sections of wet or very damp hair and smoothing, while rotating the sections, one-by-one, from root to tip. Tiny styling combs have been used for coils, as well as a finger. Typically, a gel is applied prior to coiling for longer-lasting hold and shine.

Coily - A term used to reference the texture characteristic of natural Type 4 hair, whereby the configuration of the strand resembles a small-diameter ink pen spring. The coil is most evident when the hair is wet and/or defined with a curling custard/ gel. It usually remains evident when the hair is allowed to dry undisturbed from a soaking wet stage.

Flat Twists - A technique whereby the hair is two-strand twisted flat to the scalp, in cornrow fashion.

Fluff - The use of fingers or a pick to add volume and shape to natural hair.

'Fro - Afro

Hair Types - 1/2a/2b/2c/ 3a/3b/3c/4a/4b/4cHair typing refers to the amount of texture hair has. Naturally straight hair isType 1, loose-wavy hair is type 2, curly hair is type 3 and coily hair is type 4. In the case of types 3 and 4, the sub-classifications from a - c, are based upon the diameter of the curl or coil. For instance a type 3a curl may have the diameter of a nickel, a 3b, like a dime. Type 4, which is the most common for people of African descent, ranges from the diameter of a pencil eraser (4a), to the diameter of an ink pen spring (4b), and even smaller than that, (type 4c). In some cases, hair may even have a tight z zigzag pattern and no coil at all. This hair type classification system was created by renowned hairstylist and entrepreneur, Andre Walker.

Locks/Locs- A hairstyle whereby small sections of hair are twisted and over time, the strands become permanently secured. As locks/locs grow, they can become quite long.

Pineappleing- Pulling hair into one or several pony puffs, (depending on hair length), using covered or ouch less bands. The balance of the hair remains free. The puff(s) are positioned at the top or at several sites across the head. This procedure helps preserve the coil/curl definition of the style overnight, and also provides some stretch to the hair. When using this technique, it's best to sleep on a satin pillowcase. In the morning, the bands are removed and the sections are gently shaken or fluffed.

Pony Puff- A hairstyle whereby the hair is pulled back at the crown, sides and nape, using headbands, hair pins, scarves, etc. The remaining hair extends freely.

Protective Styling- A hairstyle that helps protect the ends of hair from dehydration and damage, by eliminating the need for mechanical manipulation, (combing, brushing, picking, etc.) and shielding against environmental exposure, (i.e. sun, heat, cold, wind). Some examples are buns, braids, twists, ponytails and various head coverings.

Shingling- A form of Wash n' Go styling whereby a styling curl cream or curl gel is liberally applied section-by section to clean, very wet hair. As the styling product is applied to each relatively small section of hair, the section is smoothed between the thumb and forefinger, in a downward motion from root to tip. The smoothing action, in combination with the styling product immediately makes the coil/curl/wave pattern evident. The hair is then either air-dried or dried with the use of a hood dryer. Once dry, the hair can be gently fluffed for style.

Shrinkage - A term used to describe the reduction of the visual length of hair. It is a process that occurs as wet hair dries and re-coils into its natural texture pattern.

Texturizer- A chemical treatment used to partially relax or loosen the natural curl pattern of highly textured hair. Provides greater stretch/elongation/length, and helps the hair to trail in a downward direction, (as opposed to an "up on out" direction, like an afro.) Texturizers are usually a form of relaxers, just milder in formulation or allowed to process using a different technique or timeframe. Texturizers alter the natural coil/curl pattern permanently and hair processed with them must be cut off in order to return one's hair to its natural state.

TNC (Twist-n-Curl) - A styling technique whereby wet or damp hair is two-strand twisted and then rolled on rods or rollers. Once dry, the curlers are removed and the hair untwisted.

Transitioning- This is the process, (also called "the journey" or "going natural") whereby one's natural-textured hair is allowed to grow in, while the previously chemically-treated hair is trimmed off in stages. The goal is to have a full head of all-natural hair, but to do so without abruptly cutting off (via the Big Chop) all of the processed hair. A degree of length is maintained by only gradually removing the relaxed or permed portions. Transitioning also involves managing the coily-textured new-growth as it increasingly co-exists with the remaining hair. The strategy for some is to wear textured styles (i.e., rod sets and braids) as the new hair grows in to minimize the texture differences, or to wear or wigs/weaves for a period of time.

TWA - Teeny Weeny Afro

Twist OutA hairstyle created by first two-strand twisting the hair while wet or damp. After the hair is dry, the twists are carefully released and styled.

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Twist Out- A hairstyle created by first two-strand twisting the hair while wet or damp. After the hair is dry, the twists are carefully released and styled.

Two-Strand Twists - A hairstyle technique whereby sections of hair are divided into two smaller sections and then wound around each other. The last half-inch or so of each twist is left loose and twirled around the index finger into a coil. 2-Strand Twists can be worn as a hairstyle in and of itself or the twists can be carefully released when dry (Twist-Out) for a look that's fuller, yet with a well-defined coily/wavy texture.

Wash n' Go - A term referring to a relatively quick and easy styling session whereby a defined finished style is achieved without twisting, braiding, knotting, rodding, etc. Hair is first cleansed and conditioned. Coils/curls are then defined with gel or a styling cream and allowed to air dry or dried using a diffuser attachment on a blow dryer set to a low temperature.

May be abbreviated as WnG or W&G
-snip-
Note that "pineapple" also refers to a hairstyle in which the hair is worn in a ponytail on top of your hair with hair tufts (coils) showing.

Note that "Twist outs" may also be done with twisting three hair strands.

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Excerpt #2
Source: https://www.xojane.com/beauty/hair/black-hair-glossary A Black Hair Glossary, From A Woman Who's Tired Of People Trying To Pet Her

Growing up, friends would always ask me why my hair was different from theirs. I wish I could've just given them this mini dictionary!

CHRISTINE OCTOBER 18, 2013
"B
Braid out: Braiding hair, letting it set in for a few hours, overnight or even days to later releasing them to form a wavy or crimped pattern.

C
Cornrows: Braids, typically done in rows, that lay flat to the scalp. Usually this is the foundation for a weave.

D
Detangling: Removing all tangles, knots, and kinks from your hair. Word to the wise: Please DO NOT EVER detangle your hair when it is bone dry. Instead you can try applying conditioner from root to tip ensuring the hair is evenly coated to avoid excessive tension that will cause breakage.

Dreadlocks: Hair that has been allowed to matte over time.

F
Flat twists: Twists done flat to the scalp typically done in rows.

H
Hair Type Classification System: Or your curl pattern. This system was inspired by Andre Walker (he’s queen bee Oprah’s hair stylist) and is used to identify your hair...

Head tie: A silk or satin scarf that is worn on hair that is relaxed, natural, weaved or in a protective style. Mainly done at night (or days on end if you’re my cousin Naomi), this helps to keep the hair smooth, sleek and tangle-free, preserving the shape and style of the hair as well. Let’s just say you have little to worry about in the morning if you wrap your hair at night and do not have to deal with a messy bed head in the morning. Just unravel and go girl.

Leave-In conditioner: A conditioning product that is to be left on the hair and is not to be rinsed out. It is used to provide hair with added moisture for stronger strands...

P
Protective styling: Hairstyles that require low manipulation of the hair that are done to protect the hair or give it a break from daily styling and/or wear and tear. This can include weaves, braids, wigs, and twists.

S
Shrinkage: The difference between what your hair looks like when it is wet and gently stretched out to its maximum length to what it looks like when it is dry. African American textured hair can shrink up to 75%-80% of its actual length and some girls who go natural find this to be bothersome because shrinkage does not showcase the actual progress of the individual’s hair. There are many different ways to combat shrinkage such as braids, flexi-rod sets or roller sets.

T
Tender-headed: When a person has a sensitive scalp and it hurts when hair is combed or braided. This was me as a kid and it is still me now. I do not like other people doing my hair because that ish hurts. I know what is best for my hair and how much my hair can take, so I prefer to do it myself. If you can’t do it on your own, for the sake of your hair and your edges, enlist and invest in a stylist you can trust. Please and thank you.

Tracks: A parting or a cornrow that establishes the placement pattern of wefts. Side note: You know you have a bad weave when your tracks are showing. Just sayin’.

Transitioning: Growing out the relaxed hair to expose the natural texture.

Touch up: For the girls wearing their hair in a relaxed state, this is the process of applying relaxer to the new growth, usually about ½ to 1 inch every 6-8 weeks.

Twist out: Two-strand twisting natural or relaxed hair using products of your choice: Shea butter, leave-in conditioner, and castor oil to name a few. Usually done before bed, this style is heat free, giving hair defined curls and versatility. A few tips: the longer they twists in, the better, so most girls choose do this right before bed. The smaller they are, the more defined they come out. The way you sleep is also key because you want to preserve the style, not flatten the curls. Use a satin/silk pillowcase or a large satin/silk scarf or bonnet. In the morning, unravel the twists (do not separate them), finger style and go.


W
Wash and go: This is meant to be a carefree technique. You can either wash your hair with shampoo or co-wash but always use a heavy conditioner when doing so. Once hair is cleaned and conditioned, add a cream or gel and then leave it to air dry or use a diffuser. Before this process you can add oil such as coconut, avocado or olive oil as a pre-poo/pre-wash treatment.

Wrapping hair: This is the necessary act of tying hair up, usually at night, with a silk or satin scarf to maintain style and healthy hair. Doing this helps prevent split ends while sleeping and also extends the lifespan of your hairstyle. To do so, take a brush and wrap your hair either clockwise or counterclockwise. Once done, you can secure with long bobby pins if you want. Then take a silk or satin scarf and tie it around your wrapped hair along the perimeter of your head. This will take a lot of practice to shape your hair to your scalp. But let me tell you honey, once you have it down pat, life will be so much easier."

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Excerpt #3:
From https://blackhairspot.com/blog/hair-talk/natural-hair-movement
NATURAL HAIR MOVEMENT – ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW
..."Natural Hair Lingo
It’s easier to understand a topic when you know the lingo. Natural hair is no different:

big chop – cutting off one’s chemically straightened or damaged hair and allowing it to grow back in it’s natural texture.

bantu knot – a hairstyle in which the hair is twisted and rolled up into small buns

TWAs – teeny weeny afros – a short natural hairstyle with a maximum hair length of 2 inches.

faux locs – fake or imitation dreadlocks.

transition – the time after your last chemical straightening but before the big chop.”...
-snip-
The letters in the term "TWAs" are pronounced separately.

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Excerpt #4
From https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hair_twists
"Hair twists, flat twists, or mini-twists, are a hairstyle popular with Afro-textured hair in the United States, and sometimes with other hair textures. The style is achieved by dividing the hairs into several sections, twisting strands of hair, then twisting two twisted strands around one another. They can also be created with one strand of hair at a time, with a comb.[1] They are not to be confused with larger, longer dreadlocks, (or "locs").

Twists can be made when naturally curly hair is still wet and somewhat relaxed from soaking with hot water; when the hair dries, it will shrink, creating a tightly woven texture to the hair twists. Twists can also be done with dry hair for a different texture. Twists can be combined with other hairstyles at the same time, such as afro-puffs and Afro.

In order to maintain twist hairstyles, wearers are advised by hairstylists to cover their hair with a headscarf or durag at night.[2]

Twist out
A variation of hair twists is called a "twist out",[3] where twisted hair is untwisted to create a large, loosely crimped texture, similar in appearance to hair crimping on Caucasian-textured hair that is ordinarily straight. There are two different variations to a "twist out," one method can be done with using two stands of hair and another method uses three stands of hair called a "three stand twist out". Both result in a textured hairstyle when untwisted.[4]

Other twist hairstyles include Senegalese twists, Marley twists, and Havana twists. All of these hairstyles require specific types of hair extensions that are installed to one's head. These styles have been labeled as protective styles because they protect the person's natural hair from daily manipulation. Senegalese twists originated in Senegal, Africa and are commonly performed in African hair salons across the U.S. This style uses synthetic Kanekalon hair, which can last anywhere from one to three months. Marley and Havana twists are more recent hairstyles widely spread through the black hair community in 2013. They look very similar to one another, but have distinct differences. Marley twists use Marley hair extensions that can be found in most hair supply stores from various hair companies and Havana twists use Havana hair extensions sold by few companies that are only available online. Havana twists are generally done with fewer twists than the Marley hairstyle and also weigh less in density because the hair is much fluffier in texture than Marley hair. Both hairstyles like Senegalese can last from one to three months, but should not be kept in for a longer period of time. Due to the technique of these hairstyles a person's natural hair can begin to get matted or form into dreadlocks.
-snip-
“Afro-textured hair” = type 3 and type 4 hair textures [according to the Andre Walker Hair Typing System]

Note that "Marley Hair" is a specific brand of fake hair that is sold for extensions (weaves).

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Excerpt #5
https://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20110111092551AA3r1qp
What is the difference between having dreadlocks and twists in your head?
"I want dreadlocks, but are dreadlocks and twists the same hairstyles or are they different?"

**
"Best Answer: The difference between 'Locks' and 'Twists' are:
TWISTS are the stage that hair goes through to become locks. Twists are simply bunches of hair that have been twisted together , and look like locks. The primary difference is that twists can unravel- they aren't permanent. Most people get twists, and keep them in for a few weeks, then have them taken out for a new hair style.Twists are typically shorter in length; they are normally no more than 1 to 2.5 inches long.

LOCKS on the other hand are the advanced stage of twisted hair. When twists 'mature', they began to tangle-- the hair is actually knotted at this point. When a twist reaches this stage (after about 6 months), it starts to become permanent. The hair is so knotted that it is 'locked' in. Typically, the only way to remove locks are to cut them down to the point where they haven't fully knotted yet- that means probably cutting the hair down to within an inch of the scalp.

Twists- Shorter/Temporary
Locks- Longer/Permanent

PS. Locks can be short. But typically, if you see really short locks, they're likely just twists
Source(s):
I have been growing locks for 2.5 years. I had to go through it all [="
Jabbar. 2011
-snip-
As a point of clarification, a lot of people who wear their hair in "twists" or "twist outs" aren't trying to grow dreads (dreadlocks; locs). Also, a lot of people wear twists hairstyles for much less than the couple of weeks that is mentioned in this response.

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RELATED LINK:
http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2013/02/good-hair-bad-hair-black-attitudes.html Good Hair & Bad Hair (Black Attitudes About Our Hair)
Edited by Azizi Powell on 2/2013; updated- 10/2016

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This concludes Part I of this two part series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.

Excerpts From Several Online Articles About "Fulani Braids" & Other Black Females' Braiding With Beads Hairstyles

Edited by Azizi Powell

This is Part III in a four part pancocojams series that provides information about African originated or African inspired braided hairstyles for females.

This post presents excerpts from several online articles about Black females' braided hairstyles that are inspired by Fulani and/or other African culture. Selected comments from one of these articles are also included in this post.

Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2018/02/five-youtube-examples-of-african.html for Part I of this series. Part I includes my transcription Of a November 1979 Ebony Magazine article about the emerging popularity among African American adults of unadorned braids or braids with beads. Part I also showcase several videos of African American performing artists wearing their hair in braids with beads, cowrie shells, and/or other ornaments.

Click http://pancocojams.blogspot.com/2018/02/more-examples-of-fulani-african-female.html for Part II of this series. Part II presents excerpts from several online articles about Fulani (African) culture and showcases videos about Fulani culture with special focus on Fulani females' beaded hairstyles. The Addendum to that post showcases a video of Nigerian Afrobeats singer Yemi Alade wearing her hair in one of the traditional Fulani hairstyles for women.

Part IV showcases three African American hair tutorial videos about "Fulani braids" with beads and/or other ornaments. Selected comments from these videos' discussion threads are also included in that post.

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The content of this post is presented for cultural purposes.

All copy rights remain with their owners.

Thanks to the authors of these featured articles.

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PANCOCOJAMS EDITOR'S NOTE
The term "Fulani braids" that has been used since around 2016 in the United States and probably elsewhere refers to a number of different braided hairstyles for Black females that have beads and/or other ornaments added to the braids. These hairstyles are said to be inspired by the Fulani ethnic group of West Africa and the Sahel.*

As used in the United States, "Fulani braids" hairstyles are said to be inspired by traditional Fulani hairstyles for females, but aren't necessarily the same as those traditional hairstyles. One significant difference is that traditional Fulani braids are much shorter than the length of braids in the United States.

These braided with beads hairstyles have sometimes also been referred to as "Alicia Keys braids", after the African American R&B/Soul singer and pianist who popularized that hairstyle in the video of her 2001 hit record "Fallin'". However, hairstyles that are braided with or without beads, cowrie shells, and/or other ornaments has long been a custom for Black girls in the United States and throughout much of the world. Furthermore, a few African American performing artists have worn long braids with beads since the mid 1970s.
-snip-
*"The Sahel part of Africa includes (from west to east) parts of northern Senegal, southern Mauritania, central Mali, northern Burkina Faso, the extreme south of Algeria, Niger, the extreme north of Nigeria, central Chad, central and southern Sudan, the extreme north of South Sudan, Eritrea, Cameroon, Central African Republic and extreme north of Ethiopia.

Historically, the western part of the Sahel was sometimes known as the Sudan region.[5] This belt was roughly located between the Sahara and the coastal areas of West Africa." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sahel

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EXCERPTS FROM ONLINE ARTICLES ABOUT HAIR BRAIDING
Excerpt #1
From https://stayglam.com/beauty/protective-hairstyles-for-black-women/
"21 Best Protective Hairstyles for Black Women
By KimL | April 25, 2016
"When looking at the best protective hairstyles for black women, you want something that’ll actually do the trick – give you a way to wear your hair how you want to while causing minimal damage and moisturizing or rehydrating the hair at the same time."
-snip-
That article provides a brief description of 21 protective hairstyles and also includes photographs of those styles. "Fulani Braids" aren't included in that article, probably because that term wasn't as widely used in 2016 as it is in 2018.

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Excerpt #2:
From http://madamenoire.com/832860/fulani-braids/ [page 1 of 12 pages] 12 Beautiful Fulani Braid Styles To Inspire Your Next Hairdo
June 5, 2017 | By Brande Victorian
"Summer’s nearly here, which means for many of us it’s time to put our own hair away and bring out the braids. Every summer a different type of braid in in style. Box braids, Senegalese twists, Havana twists, Marley twists, crochet braids, and even faux locs have all had their moment, but this season it’s all about Fulani braids.

The traditional West African style has gained widespread popularity among Black women in the states for its intricate designs and use of beading to accentuate the braids. I gave Fulani braids a try on my recent excursion to South Africa and since then I’ve seen many women on the street and on the ‘gram rocking the beautiful style. It’s a given I’ll be trying this look again soon, and if you’re considering it too, here are a few styles to inspire you."...
-snip-
"on the 'gram" = on instagram
-snip-
Here are some comments from this article's discussion thread:

All of these comments are from June 2017. They are numbered for referencing purposes only.
1. cutitout
"Hopefully this will not become a trend. Can you imagine the annoying clickedy-clacking of all them damned beads? And all the broken pelvises and sprained ankles in the club from people slipping on the beads and shells....."

**
Reply
2. Wallander's theme
"I wore cornrows with beads - as a kid - in middle school/jr. high (1980s) and I really enjoyed the sound of the beads and fidgeting with them while reading or doing class work. However, they are not compatible with sports! You would swing your head around to get a make a pass on the basketball court and end up lashed across the face or forehead by the dadgum beads. oh well. I wouldn't wear the style as an adult, though."

**
Reply
3. hi-liter
"Sure didn't stop Venus or Serena."
-snip-
Venus and Serena [Williams] are African American tennis champions.

**
Reply
4. Wallander's theme
"And I always wondered about that. Sure, they were wearing their hair shorter back then, but even with your hair tied back, the beads are heavy and inconvenient for sports."

**
Reply
5. itswhatever321go
"To each their own. I can do without the beads. I hated them when I was a kid, and as an adult I'd probably hate them now."

**
6. OpinionHated
"this look is cute for twenty-somethings - I would feel like a young yam wearing my hair in any of those styles... ask a a bajan what a young yam is or look it up on bajan slang site...."

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Excerpt #3:
From https://therighthairstyles.com/30-best-black-braided-hairst/
"Braids are an easy and so pleasant way to forget about hair styling for months, give your hair some rest and protect it from harsh environmental factors. Besides, with the awesome hairstyles listed below you will attract attention, admiring glances and sincere smiles.

Braided hairstyles make space for creativity. There are many interesting braiding techniques to make every head unique. Besides, you can experiment with highlights, natural or curly texture, clips, patterns, shapes, etc.

Natural perm and hair thickness is your big plus and a unique bonus that you simply can’t leave unused. Your hair, that you might have been complaining of before, is created for braids. So why not to use this idea to your advantage?

African hair braiding is very versatile: microbraids, cornrows, fishtail braids, blocky braids, black braided buns, twist braids, tree braids, hair bands, French braids and more are at your disposal. Once you pick a desired braiding style, thickness and have your hair braided, you may shape your braids into gorgeous hairstyles both for every day and special events.

Researchers say that braids were “in fashion” even 2000 years b.c. If they have survived till our time, there definitely must be something special in them, don’t you think? No wonder, every year world-famous designers experiment with braids at fashion shows."...
-snip-
This article continues with descriptions about and photographs of "popular trends in Black Braided Hairstyles".

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Excerpt #4:
From https://www.essence.com/hair/kim-kardashian-bo-derek-fulani-braid-problematic Here's Why Kim Kardashian Crediting Her Fulani Braids To Bo Derek Is Problematic by SAMANTHA CALLENDER Feb, 05, 2018
"Braids have long been the de facto hairstyle of the African diaspora. Originally a tribal signifier amongst African tribes, the technique was brought across the Atlantic during slavery and is now a go-to protective style for Black women.

There's no arguing that braids have played a critical role in Black hair culture, which is why when celebrities, namely Kim Kardashian, chose to credit the style to Bo Derek, a white actress, we have a problem.

Named after the Fula people, the largest ethnic group across West Africa and Sahel, Fulani braids are characterized by forward-facing plaits with one or two large braids going back down the center. Often adorned with some type of gem, bead, or metal the braiding technique and style became widely known for its intricacy and stark difference from cornrows.

The style remained popular among the Fula people and children of the African diaspora. Many of us may recall seeing the hairstyle reemerge in the early 00’s after a talented new artist known as Alicia Keys, hit the scene wearing them. The look became iconic for Keys, who quickly rose to fame while sporting Fulani braids.

Considering the rich and extensive history of the hairstyle (that you can easily Google) it should come as no surprise that Black women are both confused and enraged at the fact that Kardashian recently posted a series of selfies to Instagram and credited Bo Derek for the look.

[...]

t's important to remember that it was only last year that Army Regulation 670-1 was repealed. This regulation described natural hair as matted and unkempt and restricted black women from natural hairstyles including twists, dreadlocks, Afros and braids while deployed. Black women have always been criticized when culturally expressing themselves. This is particularly true when that expression is manifested through their hairstyles.”...
-snip-
"Bo Derek" is a White American actress who starred in the 1979 movie "10". In that movie, Bo Derek was filmed running on the beach with microbraids (then referred to as "cornrows") with beads at their end. Click https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8TUWilKb6M for a clip of that scene.

Click for an article about Bo Derek and this hairstyle. Here's a longish excerpt from that article
..."Since she ran down that beach, hair braided, in the 1979 movie 10, Bo Derek probably gets more credit for popularizing cornrows than anyone. A 1980 People article cited Derek as the catalyst for making cornrows a “cross-cultural craze” and a “beauty store bonanza.” As a result, the hairstyle’s origins in African-American culture have sometimes been overlooked — as in this Los Angeles Times debacle from earlier this year. So when New York caught up with the actress at the premiere of FX’s Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll, we asked what she thought of the hairstyle, cultural appropriation, and whether she’d ever considered her role in it all.

Her answers were … minimal.

She remarked that, like Andy Cohen, she found the Jenner controversy “stupid,” and noted that race never came up around discussions of her 10 cornrows. “It’s a hairdo! That’s all it is,” she exclaimed.

When asked about the hairdo’s origins (in the same People piece a black woman named Ann Collins gets credit as 10’s official braider), Derek responded that she “knew where it came from, but that had nothing to do with doing it.”

Her final comment: “No, seriously, of all the important racial and cultural issues we have right now, people are going to focus on a hairstyle? No, no. I’ll save my efforts toward important racial and cultural issues.”
-snip-
Click https://www.teenvogue.com/story/kim-kardashian-wears-cornrows-and-calls-them-bo-derek-braids "Kim Kardashian Wears Cornrows and Calls Them "Bo Derek Braids" This is not ok."
Teryn Payneat Teen Vogue, JAN 29, 2018 for an article that is specifically about Kim Kardashian crediting Bo Derek for braids with beads.

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This concludes Part III of this pancocojams series.

Thanks for visiting pancocojams.

Visitor comments are welcome.