#hairsolan

This weekend I had the pleasure of visiting Nubian Hair Studio for their film review of “400 Years Without a Comb” by Willie Morrow. In an intimate setting I was joined by other local Bronx naturals eager to see what the film had to offer. The film brought to light the experience of our African ancestors who endured the atrocities of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and would later go on to live out generations of slavery in the west.

  Through dramatic reenactments and informative images we explored the chain of events that gave birth to the inferiority complex and distorted body image of the African American.  We saw how the desire for acceptance by white oppressors fueled the innovation of the first hair relaxer, the hot comb and even the use of axel grease to slick down the hair. We were then brought to the reintroduction of the African comb developed as the “afro pick.” The film offered a wealth of knowledge. However, the true gift of the evening was the emotions that it evoked in the viewers and the discussion it sparked. After the film, women in the audience shared a range of mixed emotions from sad to proud. Revelations of their own personal natural hair journeys gave way to anecdotes of employer discrimination, demoralizing family practices and ultimately the strength of the Black woman.  New friendships were made that night, the bond of sisterhood nourished and idea of unity reinforced.

  I personally felt rejuvenated to see such positive women of color coming together to educate and support one another. Each one of us in a different place in our personal journey lent something unique and valuable to the experience.  It is through such events that we step beyond a simple fee for service industry and work to rebuild our communities.  It is only through understanding of our history that we can truly begin to appreciate the strength and beauty of our natural selves. In the Bronx, NY, salons specializing in natural hair care are few and far between. Salons that cater to enhancing their clients’ inner beauty as well as their outer beauty are even harder to come by. As a salon that does both, Nubian Hair Studio is truly a gem of a find. Peace -Niyya Teneé