Hairy

Finally got Good Hair to watch. I am in equal parts appalled and amazed and amused (thanks to Chris Rock) and horrified. (Highly recommended, by the way.) I've had enough friends who've dealt with the issues of "black" hair to get the jokes. Racism is alive and well, and none more oppressive than the oppressed themselves. (Keeping their own in line to avoid censure.) The selling of "european" hair, which is actually Asian, specifically Indian, hair for weaves, plus toxic relaxer chemicals and the expectations of beauty and the high price of fashion. Honestly, I have always thought that natural black hair is lovely, and relaxed black hair looks like Barbie fake nylon hair. My thin, stringy hair would be considered "good" and I'm frankly shocked. On the other hand, I'm so glad I have decided to eschew all salons and "beauty" treatments for the rest of my life. This movie unsettled me as thoroughly as Bury Me Standing. About Roma (Gypsy) belief and culture, the superstition and self destructive values, odd and alien.

I've commented about Hair before, long ago. And I am still frustrated at how important the issue seems. Even considering that it is a symptom of genetic health, it's so overblown, so exaggerated and emotional.

So, I set in concrete my promise to myself. I will not get my hair cut, though I may trim it myself. I will wear no make-up, apply no dye, nor will I in any way support the industries that tell women that they are inadequate unless they do so. Easy enough looking at 50, I suppose. But I will be myself, and let anyone think what they may.