On Monday about 200 students at Pretoria High School For Girls protested school policies that prevented them from wearing their hair in it's natural state. According to them, the school code mandated that hair must be "brushed and worn in conservative styles." Some of the styles that were allegedly banned include afros, bantu knots, locs, box braids and more! One of the protesters said that a teacher once told her that her natural hair should be combed because it looks like a bird's nest!!! Can you imagine the audacity?!?!?!
I'm immensely proud of those young women who boldly stood up for their rights. This reminds me of when I first moved back to Nigeria and would go to work with my natural hair out. As much as people were wowed that I was brave enough to do it (I don't know how that's bravery), I also got rude comments. I clearly remember my friend telling me that my hair was yucky and that guys would NEVER talk to me. Lol, anyone seen my wedding photos yet? Oh and guess what, the same girl is natural now.
It saddens me that there is discrimination against natural hair IN AFRICA! Again, kudos to the young women for not allowing it!
Did you hear about the story? What did you think about it?
Berry Dakara.
