The Rastafarian movement and natural hair debate are a perfect fit
The Rastafarian movement has been an active part of the natural hair debate, particularly in regards to the discrimination faced by people of African descent for wearing their hair naturally.
Rastafarianism, also known as Rastafari, is a religious and cultural movement that originated in Jamaica in the 1930s following the coronation of Haile Selassie I as King of Ethiopia. They have been a proponent of natural hair and self-expression.
Rastafarians believe that the wearing of natural hair is a reflection of their African heritage and cultural identity. As such, many Rastafarians reject chemical relaxers and other treatments that alter the natural texture of their hair, instead choosing to wear their hair in dreadlocks or other natural styles.
The Rastafarian movement has been a strong supporter of the natural hair debate, advocating for the acceptance and celebration of natural Black hair as a symbol of African identity and resistance against societal oppression.
Many Rastafaris grow out their hair in dreadlocks to symbolize the Lion of Judah’s mane. The key verse quoted in defense of this practice is Leviticus 21:5.
5 They shall not make baldness upon their head, neither shall they shave off the corner of their beard, nor make any cuttings in their flesh.
Dreadlocks continues to be seen as a symbol of defiance towards the demonic influence of “Babylon.” For Rastafaris, Babylon refers to all the spiritually deadening forces of the materialistic world.
Cultural Pride
The wearing of dreadlocks is seen as a symbol of the rejection of the western standard of beauty and the embracing of their own cultural identity. In recent years, the movement has become increasingly vocal in its support of the natural hair debate, advocating for the right of individuals to wear their hair in whatever style they choose without fear of discrimination. This has become a rallying cry for many in the natural hair movement, and has helped to bring greater visibility and acceptance to afro-textured hair.
Source: PRI
All things natural
In addition to promoting natural hair as a form of cultural pride, the Rastafarian movement has also been vocal about the importance of embracing natural foods and holistic living as part of their spiritual and cultural practices.
This includes the use of natural herbs and oils for hair and skin care, as well as a focus on a plant-based diet and sustainable living practices.
Rastafaris understand natural skin care is part of the natural hair debate. This is because the products used for hair care can also have an impact on the health and appearance of the skin.
Many hair care products, particularly those that contain synthetic ingredients such as sulfates, parabens, and silicones, can strip the hair and scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and other skin problems. In addition, some hair care practices, such as excessive heat styling or tight hairstyles, can cause damage to the scalp and lead to inflammation or infection.
On the other hand, natural hair care products that are free from harsh chemicals and contain nourishing ingredients such as natural oils, vitamins, and antioxidants can help to promote healthy hair and scalp, and may also benefit the skin. For example, ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil can help to moisturise and soothe dry or irritated skin, while tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that can help to prevent acne and other skin infections.
Therefore, as part of the natural hair debate, Rastafaris believe it is important to consider the impact of hair care products and practices on both hair and skin health, and to make choices that promote overall well-being.
Conclusion
The Rastafarian movement has been an influential part of the discussion and helped to promote and bring awareness to the natural hair debate.
They have consistently advocated for the acceptance and celebration of natural Black hair as a form of cultural and spiritual resistance against societal norms that seek to marginalise the Black community. Rastafaris have also served as an example of how wearing natural hair is a form of self-expression and pride in one's culture.
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