The Problem with Cornrows and Cultural Appropriation: An Opinion Piece

The Problem with Cornrows and Cultural Appropriation: An Opinion Piece

Cornrows are a traditional African hairstyle that dates back centuries. Historically, they were used as a way to style hair that was deemed too unmanageable for everyday braids. However, over the years, cornrows have become increasingly popular and have even been adopted by popular culture as a trend.

In recent years, the appropriation of cornrows has become a hot topic of discussion. Many people feel that cornrows have been stolen from Black culture and are being exploited for profit. The debate has even reached a global scale, with celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner being accused of cultural appropriation for wearing cornrows.

The problem with cultural appropriation is that it strips marginalized communities of their cultural identity. It’s not just about the hairstyle – it’s about the history and significance behind it. When people appropriate cultural traditions, they often do so without acknowledging or respecting the cultural context.

Another issue with cornrows and cultural appropriation is the lack of credit given to Black creators and stylists who have been doing this for centuries. Black hair is often marginalized in the beauty industry, with many products and hairstyles being marketed towards a white audience. It’s important to acknowledge and support Black stylists and creators who have been innovating and creating in the hair industry for centuries.

Cultural appropriation also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about marginalized communities. When non-black individuals adopt cornrows, they often do so without understanding or caring about the cultural significance behind them. This can lead to the perpetuation of stereotypes about Black culture being ‘trendy’ and ‘exotic’, rather than a valuable part of human society.

The fashion industry is particularly guilty of cultural appropriation when it comes to cornrows. Many high-end designers have been caught appropriating cultural traditions without giving credit or acknowledgement. It’s important to call out these instances and hold designers accountable for their actions.

In conclusion, cultural appropriation of cornrows is a hot-button issue that is not going away anytime soon. It’s important to acknowledge the cultural significance behind cornrows and the harm that cultural appropriation can cause. We need to celebrate and respect marginalized communities and the traditions that they hold dear. By educating ourselves and our peers, we can work towards a more inclusive and respectful society.

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