Symposium video archives

Attendees are invited to join presenters on a journey of exploration of historical events and personal reflection on self-acceptance and acceptance within society. Black hair is more than just hair. Attendees will gain an understanding of underlying messages that project negative stereotypes and influence the lived experience of people with “nappy” or “kinky” hair.

The natural hair movement aims to encourage people of African descent to embrace their natural, afro-textured hair. It originated in the United States during the 1960s and resurged in the 2000s. After decades of intolerance, The Crown Act was enacted in 2019, making it illegal to discriminate against race-based hairstyles.

Utilizing a developmental framework, presenters will provide their unique insight into detangling messaging of beauty and value placed on them by colonization and white supremacist culture. Black/African American people are now embracing and loving their natural curls and hair texture despite the perceptions of others.