Read more specifically, I have personal thoughts and concerns about the issue below. Dreadlocks, which are matted hair, are a significant part of African and Caribbean cultures, and almost every culture has embraced this hairstyle. However, I personally feel that individuals who are not black should not refer to their hair as dreadlocks. It is important to note that not all black people agree on this matter, as it is a complex issue.
Are Dreadlocks Cultural Appropriation? Yes? No? Perhaps?
Because I am writing this, there are many gray areas that are worthy of discussion and thought for me. I am not saying they are wrong, but many people see both sides of this issue in terms of black and white. Instead of trying to change your mind, I seek to examine the complex history that has created my own perspective. I respectfully ask you to read until the end, regardless of whether you already have an opinion on the subject of dreadlocks or if you think they are appropriation.
Let’s discuss them briefly, as these terms are frequently misused and conflated: cultural appropriation, cultural exchange, and cultural assimilation. It is important for everyone to possess a fundamental comprehension of these terms in order to genuinely grasp any conversation regarding cultural appropriation.
Sharing different ideas and traditions with someone who may come from a completely different background than your own is a cultural exchange.
Collaboration and mutual sharing are the key concepts to bear in mind, willingly provided and reciprocated. The scenario is far more probable when one culture is not suppressing or assimilating the other. Genuine cultural interchange can take place more openly when both cultures are on an equal footing. Furthermore, the authentic origins and recognition of these concepts and customs remain unaltered.
Another group of resemble to come culture and/or language group’s a or person a which by process the is Assimilation- Cultural 2.
New habits are often discriminated against or against the choice to adopt these new habits.
Individuals from a different and usually more influential group or society, assimilate the traditions, behaviors, concepts, etc. Of another group or society, without recognition or in an improper way, referred to as cultural appropriation.
Many things can be considered cultural appropriation, where one or more things are appropriated if it is done without proper understanding or respect. When a dominant culture appropriates another culture, it often leads to further damage to that culture and reinforces negative stereotypes. It is important to remember that these things may be sacred or culturally significant, so they should be used properly and with deep understanding. It is also worth noting that there has been no measurable exchange or return for these traditions, practices, and customs.
Not giving credit to the source culture means profiting from something that marginalized cultures could and should also profit from, while taking credit for inventing something and renaming it.
The source said that you are representing the culture in a way that shows respect and equality for that particular culture or race.
Diminishing the tradition by making it commonplace diminishes its significance, causing the source culture to perceive a decrease in the value of something they consider sacred or earned through hard work.
Typical examples of this would involve Halloween costumes that are based on racial stereotypes like “Indigenous American Princess” and outfits portraying terrorists from the Middle East.
Utilizing cultural visuals to market unrelated products – Uncle Tom’s Rice, Aunt Jemima Syrup.
Caucasian actors being utilized to portray fictional and non-fictional characters that were originally intended for or traditionally played by ethnic minorities.
It doesn’t matter if you meant it that way, the disrespect is still felt if you disregard the importance of culture. The damage caused by these actions is often unintentional, but that doesn’t excuse it. Shouldn’t we examine our intentions and consider the impact they have on those who are affected by them? We should also take the time to think about how adopting these traditions, customs, or reflecting on the culture they came from can benefit those who suffer from them. Researching and listening can help us understand when something is being appropriated from a majority culture. Sometimes, the adoption of a custom can be seen as an exchange. However, what may be considered appropriation today might be seen as an exchange tomorrow. It’s important to acknowledge that culture and its dynamics are constantly changing, and there are many variables to consider in each situation. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as making a list of what is okay and what is not. In my opinion, this is a serious error. Many people who are not familiar with these terms fail to understand the negative or positive effects they can have on minority cultures. It’s important to understand the differences and similarities between cultures without forming an opinion based solely on our own terms.
From my comprehension, I am capable of guiding you through both perspectives of the debates. The assistance I can provide may not be exceedingly beneficial, but I kindly request your patience. Occasionally, is that correct? The response is perhaps, isn’t it? I will be unable to accomplish that. Well, as much as I desire to provide you with a definitive affirmative or negative response, they are not as straightforward. Similar to dreadlocks. Do they constitute cultural appropriation or not? However, at times, they are not so evident. Native American Headdresses are a form of appropriation. In most cases, there exists a clearly dominant viewpoint.
Share their opinion on this issue, black Americans must remember that not all people will agree with them. It is not meant to be racist, but there are still people who do not agree with the majority. We should also remember to share our feelings with each other and respect different perspectives. This conversation about voting rights in our country has been difficult to have, but it is important for us to work towards true freedom and equality for all.Output: In order for the black community to gain respect and have their opinions heard, it is crucial to recognize that not everyone will agree with their viewpoint on this matter. While it is unfortunate, racism still exists and not all individuals will align with the majority. It is important for us to acknowledge and respect each other’s perspectives, as well as openly express our emotions. The discussion surrounding voting rights in our nation has proven to be challenging, but it is necessary for us to strive for genuine human equality and freedom.
Throughout my entire life, it doesn’t matter how I wore my hair – whether it was short, long, straight, braided, or in locs – I have consistently been disrespected and insulted by white people who carelessly and hatefully judged my hair. It is important to understand that as black individuals, we constantly have to take into account how white society feels about our hair, music, children, employment, and clothing. We are expected to care about these opinions, which are often negative and shared without any consideration for our culture. It is crucial to remember that there is no literal part of black life that does not involve issues with our hair. So, if you come across a black person who has issues with their hair, please do not assume that they are misinformed or dismiss their concerns. It is not okay to think that explaining how you feel about their hair will change their mind. Please remember that this is not a matter of justified or reasonable opinions. Even before this country was founded, our ancestors’ cultures have consistently been appropriated, marginalized, and criminalized. We have had our natural hair ripped away from us and have fought to wear it in the way it was meant to be worn. It is important to understand and empathize with this ongoing struggle. Please do not dismiss or silence black individuals in any way, and do not use this video as an opportunity to ask non-black viewers for their opinions.
If you choose to lock your hair, please be respectful and understand that not everyone may be comfortable with it, especially if you are not black. Some people may have no problem with it at all. Strangers have often approached me without asking or touching my hair, even before they have spoken to me. I have been offered relaxers and strangers have commented on how my hair looks like sheep’s wool or pubic hair.
In light of the given input, it is imperative to enact national legislation to safeguard against racial discrimination of this nature. This is particularly important because it has been a significant issue, as evidenced by California’s recent implementation of the C.R.O.W.N Act, which aimed to protect black individuals from discrimination based on their natural hair. Disturbing incidents, such as teachers cutting off a child’s or young adult’s braids, expelling them from private schools, or forcing them to remove their braids or locs in order to participate in sports, are frequently reported. The discrimination against black hair has plagued the black community for centuries, and it is an undeniable reality rather than a matter of subjective opinion. This discrimination affects our level of respect, opportunities for advancement, and employment prospects. Even though derogatory comments represent only a fraction of the discrimination faced, black individuals continue to experience hair discrimination in educational institutions and workplaces.
No one should feel the need to pour a chemical that can cause blindness into their eyes or cause balding and chemical burns to their hair and scalp. In the case of relaxers, long or short-term health issues can be caused, as well as damage to the hair and scalp associated with keeping up chemically relaxed hair or weaves, not to mention the staggering time and cost. It should be understood that styles that are best suited for hair that grows out of their head in its natural state are not undesirable or inferior. However, not all things are equal, and some may choose to straighten their hair. Why is it wrong if all things were equal and it wouldn’t be an issue at all?
The term “locs” is often used to refer to hair that is matted and sectioned separately, and it carries a derogatory connotation for some people, particularly Rastafarians. It is important to recognize that not all black people feel the same way about it. Additionally, it should be acknowledged that the term “dreadlocks” originated from Caribbean and Rastafarian cultures, and these cultures had many different styles of matted hair that were significant to them. It is worth noting that this argument is not exclusive to black cultures, as there are examples of matted hair in Irish, Indian, First Nation, and Viking cultures as well. However, I won’t spend too much time discussing this as it has already been talked about. One of the most common arguments against dreadlocks is that they require a significant amount of time and effort to maintain. Dreadlocks are formed by allowing hair to naturally matt together over time, and they can be of varying lengths. Now, let’s talk about the term “dreadlock” itself and its origins within the black community, as well as the discussions surrounding the cost, pain, and privilege associated with white hair.
It may be difficult to imagine, but roses are special flowers that are not easy to obtain. If you are still struggling to understand, I can help by saying that all flowers are called roses. I sincerely hope that you are willing to look back into your own culture and appreciate the unique history and importance of dreadlocks. Wearing dreadlocks is not about minimizing or erasing the association and history, but rather embracing a word and culture that has a different meaning and history. There are many options commonly used to refer to dreadlocks, such as Lokks, matts, knots, snakes, ropes, tassels, locks, Witch locks, and Fae. It becomes harder to distinguish them from each other and the differences become less known and discussed. However, there are a lot of similarities between them as well. Just like calling all sparkling wine champagne, it doesn’t affect you nor does it mean that you share the oppressive and bloody history of the word. Therefore, it is not appropriate to claim that wearing dreadlocks appropriates someone else’s culture. If you are claiming your own culture, then it is not cultural appropriation. However, I have no way of knowing if this will solve the issue for you or not. Although the term dreadlocks may refer to matted hair, it may not necessarily be a form of cultural appropriation, whether it is intentional or unintentional.
If they don’t show understanding and respect for my hair anymore, I don’t understand and respect them either. While I’m taking care of my hair, I enjoy watching documentaries like Made Self and Hair Good. I choose this profession not only for communication and learning purposes, but also to create a space where hair is valued and respected. I always talk about my own struggles with caring for and loving my hair, as well as the journeys of other people with different hair types, especially non-white clients. Before I met a black friend who taught me so much, I didn’t realize how little my white mother knew about black hair, and it devastated both of us in different ways. My mother, who is white, made many mistakes because she had little knowledge about it before she got pregnant with me and used her black friend as a resource. Eventually, she learned how to take care of her own hair and taught me as well. It was because of her relationship with her black friend that she was able to learn and grow. This experience taught me that I cannot tell you what is right for you, and I can only share my perspective and the decisions I make for myself. I want to make it clear from the beginning that I cannot dictate what is right for you.
When the topic of cultural appropriation came up, I found it very difficult to know how to proceed, as I did not see the issue and did not mean to devalue my career by valuing the opinions and views of others over mine. Nor did I automatically feel comfortable turning away people who wanted a service that I could provide, because if it was simply a matter of people white as well providing for their skin, it would not have been appropriation. At what point should I have felt enough black to have braids and locs without feeling like a black person passing as white? How would I feel if a black person screamed at me for appropriating their own culture, when in fact I was doing research to help me find my own place in this larger discussion? I hope that choosing to encourage understanding, compassion, and respect might help someone else find someone else to help them.
