The Natural Perception

Is it just me, or is the perception and acceptance of the natural woman an issue that needs to be addressed pronto? In my new and exciting journey over to the realm of natural hair I have encountered a surprising number of instances where my choice for natural hair was either doubted or not accepted.  “Natural Hair Hater” is the term of endearment that I have given to this group of people who reject the movement. Now I have never insisted that people follow my hair decision, and I never criticized them for the choice that they have made for their own. So I find myself perplexed when these “Natural Hair Haters” force their opinion on me.

I know I cannot be the only one to experience this form of denial. I personally run into it almost daily. Usually in men who cannot accept the extra kink in my curls, or women who find my free flowing locs offensive.  And of course, I am confused because how could anyone deny the irrefutable beauty that is the natural woman?!?!

I mean, I guess I can try to attempt to understand where these misconceptions about beauty are coming from, especially when we live in a world where straight and flowing tresses are perceived as the more beautiful and favored of hair.  I believe that our men and woman have fallen victim to this theory of straight hair being the only form of beauty. I myself have had people who I considered to be close friends tell me that I would never be accepted in today’s society because of my choice.   I have dealt with men who have expressed to me, “You would be so pretty if you grew out your hair and permed it”. And my personal favorite, “Girl, you know you can’t be in my wedding if you don’t perm that hair!”

And my answer to these “Natural Hair Haters” will always be the same.  Absolutely and unequivocally NO! I have come to believe these past couple of months, that being a woman with natural hair is like being in an elite and exclusive club.  Now I find myself giggling when people try to tell me my natural is not beautiful, because I have realized that the “Natural Hair Haters” are simply people standing on the outside of the club. They have no idea what is inside, and I smile to myself because when I decided to go natural, I had the courage to join the club. Now all I have to do is just hold on to my membership and enjoy the perks.

[author] [author_image timthumb=’on’]https://www.naturalhairmag.com/wp-content/uploads/pic3.png[/author_image] [author_info]Jherica Burgess is a columnist for Natural Hair residing in the DMV area. [/author_info] [/author]