Why Cultural Appropriation of Dreadlocks Needs to Stop

Introduction

Dreadlocks have been a part of various cultures worldwide for centuries. It is a hairstyle that originated from African culture and symbolizes pride, strength, and spirituality. However, in recent years, dreadlocks have been appropriated by individuals from different races and cultures, which has sparked controversy. The cultural appropriation of dreadlocks is offensive and disrespects the cultural significance of the hairstyle. In this article, we will discuss why cultural appropriation of dreadlocks needs to stop.

The Meaning of Dreadlocks

Dreadlocks are more than just a hairstyle; they are a symbol of Afrikan and Rastafarian culture. In these cultures, dreadlocks are regarded as a representation of an individual’s connection to their spiritual beliefs, community values, and history. Furthermore, the process of creating dreadlocks is a spiritual journey that involves patience, discipline, and perseverance. Indeed, the practice of locking one’s hair is a significant statement of cultural identity in African and Rastafarian traditions.

The Appropriation of Dreadlocks

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of individuals from different races and cultures appropriating dreadlocks without any knowledge or respect for its cultural significance. This appropriation is disrespectful and disregards the cultural heritage and pride associated with the hairstyle.

Appropriating dreadlocks is offensive as people from cultures where it originated face discrimination for wearing the same hairstyle. These cultures have historically been shamed for their dreadlocks and deemed them unprofessional. However, when the hairstyle is worn by individuals who do not share the cultural significance, it becomes socially acceptable. This highlights the systemic issue of People of Color (POC), including Black people, facing oppression and marginalization.

The Impact of Appropriating Dreadlocks

The appropriation of dreadlocks affects the individuals, communities, and cultures they represent. For the cultures that the hairstyle originated in, it is not just a hairstyle but a representation of their identity and pride. When someone from a different culture appropriates dreadlocks disregarding the cultural significance, it strips the original culture of their identity and reduces their rich cultural heritage to nothing more than a fashion statement.

Individuals who appropriate dreadlocks often do not understand the implications of their actions. When they wear dreadlocks to look cool, exotic, and fashionable, they are disrespecting the cultural traditions of people who have suffered through oppression and marginalization because of their dreads.

The Need to Respect Cultural Significance

Respectful appreciation of other cultures comes with learning and understanding the cultural significance and background of practices, such as wearing dreadlocks. Individuals should take the time to learn about the importance of dreadlocks in African and Rastafarian cultures and respect them when choosing to wear them.

Cultural appreciation should occur in a way that uplifts the culture, not disrespects it. An example of cultural appreciation could be supporting natural hair care businesses in the Black community, rather than appropriating the cultural hairstyles with no understanding of their importance or significance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cultural appropriation of dreadlocks needs to stop. Dreadlocks are not just a hairstyle but a symbol of spirituality, identity, and pride to African and Rastafarian cultures. Appropriating them without any knowledge or respect for their cultural significance is offensive, disrespectful, and marginalizes the cultures that they belong to. As a society, we need to work towards understanding and appreciating cultures and their practices respectfully, rather than appropriating them.