Why Michelle\'s Hair Matters

Why Michelle\'s Hair Matters

I had to touch on this one... It really annoys me how black people find a way to put one another down ALL THE TIME. Now we have some people claiming that Michelle Obama is "conforming" to white society by having relaxed hair instead of an afro...

Two years ago, I made the decision to go natural. Not because I was on some "trying to get in touch with my inner roots/black self" but because I wanted to give my hair a break from chemicals.

The beauty of black people is that we come in so many different shades and our hair comes in so many different textures. My sister has what we call "good hair." Wet it and it gets curly and cute. But I was cursed (or some may some blessed) with a thick grade of hair. Wet it and it gets tight and hard to comb aka not cute.

I remember getting my first relaxer in like 4th grade and I felt so different. I no longer had to get a hot comb to my head everytime I wanted a nice hairstyle. Let's be honest, there are just things natural hair won't do.

Nonetheless, after years of relaxers I decided to give my hair a break. My hair wasn't growing much and it just seemed less of a hassle to go natural. It was nice to go swimming and not care or be able to buy 88 cents shampoo knowing that no matter what my hair would still come out the same way even if I bought $88 shampoo.

But now, I've decided to go back to relaxed hair. Why? Because at the end of the day it's easier. Hands down. Sure, it's a lot more expensive but there are days when I just want to jump up and go. Natural hair doesn't give you that option.

Whether Michelle Obama's hair is relaxed or not (no one really knows, maybe she gets it straightened) I think that doesn't matter. It's not about wanted to be "white" or "black." It's about personal preference. And I can attest to that. Not every woman can deal with the rigors of having natural hair. I myself included.