Hi Otis,
I really appreciate this article. I’m interested in your thoughts about people of mixed race wearing dreads, if you have the inclination to discuss the topic further.
I have what stylists refer to as “ethnic” hair and often wear it in braided or dreaded extensions. I’ve done this since I was a teen, and am self-taught for both. Braiding and dreading my hair is a deep, meaningful experience to me. As someone who presents ambiguously in terms of race, it has also helped me find comfort.
My racial ID is white mixed with North African. It was brought to my attention recently that because I am not read as a black person, I may be taking up inappropriate space with my hair. I know my braids/dreads aren’t appropriative because braiding and dreading are common to North Africa and are literally my blood. My ability to work with hair feels epigenetic, and I’ve actually braided an array of African American women’s hair for them because they liked my braids. However, I want to ensure that I’m not causing harm or perpetuating the privilege of lighter skinned people doing “whatever they want” at the expense of black people.
If you have time to share your thoughts, I’d be most appreciative.
