Natural Hair Shame
I Birthed My Own Freedom (Poem)
Nappy, Crunchy, Frizzy, Knots… Not good hair!
Like thick moisturizer, these phrases applied liberally; coating every strand.
She has good hair! Mmmm Hmmm, they all agreed.
If hers is good, is mine bad?
Her silken plaits unravel as she runs away.
I feel my own course black hair. Locked tighter than a jewelry store.
Relaxer burns away my shame.
I find acceptance.
Until you.
“Mommy”, you said. I want hair like yours.
Each word causes your front tooth to wiggle.
Shame.
You are beautiful, princess!
I want to be pretty like you Mommy.
Shame again.
I hold you tight as you fall asleep.
The tears fall like rain.
I slowly rise, as not to wake you.
The buzzing clippers makes my hand tingle.
I am free.
You are free.
Beautiful, black, kinky curls begin to grow.
I am like you.
You are like me.
We are beautiful.
We are free.
