Hair Diaries: Black Hair as Identity, Resistance, and Empowerment

Name: Brittany Boban

Instagram Handle: Curly_Beee

Pronouns: She/Her

What you do, in a sentence: I am a content creator

Location: NYC

Hair Type/Texture: 3B Curly

Every February, the U.S. celebrates Black History Month, honoring the rich cultural heritage, triumphs, and adversities important to African history and its storied past. It’s a time of reflection and nods to the prominent figures, experiences, and unforgettable events in our country's history. During this month-long observance, we amplify the voices, activism, and visibility inherent in Black history and embrace one’s Black heritage like beautiful, naturally textured black hair.

Black hair and the natural hair movement are crucial to Black history. The work done throughout the decades to increase awareness, from state legislation to community-led projects, has helped Black people connect to their roots. Today, more individuals are empowered to embrace their natural hair and show up as their most authentic selves. Like Brittany Boban (she/her) — a NYC-based content creator who spoke to us about her evolutionary hair journey and what embracing natural hair has meant for her.

Join us in this chapter of Hair Diaries, where Brittany shares the connection between how hair and identity are integral to the natural hair movement and quintessential in the journey towards self-acceptance.

1. It’s Black History Month! What does it mean to you, and how do you like to celebrate?

Black history month is a reminder of how far we have come! I like to celebrate by supporting black-owned businesses and educating myself about African American culture. Pretty much facts that we do not learn in history class.

2. What are three things you love about your heritage and culture?

I love our unity and support for one another. I love our diversity. We are 50 shades of black! We do not all look the same (different skin tones/hair types/ eye colors), and our soul (soul food; soul music) everything we do is done with soul.

3. When did you first start changing up your hair or feeling it was part of your overall style/identity?

I started changing my hair senior year of high school in 2011. I began to come to age and started growing into myself — Curly Bee was evolved. I was known for curly hair and big hoops.

4. What does your hair mean to you?

My hair means everything to me. It defines who I am. It's a reminder of how far I've come along. I went from being ashamed of having curly hair because it was different to being proud of it because it was DIFFERENT.

5. What is your day-to-day beauty routine? What are your essentials, and what makes them a staple for you?

My beauty routine depends on how I'm feeling that day. I don't always wear makeup or feel like doing my hair, but one thing that is consistent is my skincare regimen. I wake up, shower, wash my face/brush my teeth, and get right to my skincare routine. When my skin looks dull and dry, I feel dull and dry. My staple products are all of my skincare products.

6. How does hair impact your self-expression and life in general?

If my hair does not look good, I do not feel good. My hair defines who I am. It's just like my personality: full of life!

7. Is there a certain hairstyle that makes you feel your best?

I have two favorite/go-to styles: I love wearing my hair out, and I feel glamorous, but I LOVE when my hair is in a bun. Buns make me feel put together. There is nothing more gorgeous than a slick back, sleek low bun.

8. Who are some of your hair/beauty icons?

Chilli from TLC, Tia & Tamara, Pam Grier, and my grandma.

10. Anything else you’d like to share regarding your hair journey?

It took a long time to get to where I am now. It doesn't happen overnight. If you want to start your natural hair journey, do not feel discouraged. Just keep going.

What’s so unique about Black History Month is that it extends year-round. It’s not exclusive to Black people but to all who believe in advancing the culture. There is so much inspiration in the natural hair movement, and embracing your natural hair is an intrinsic part of your story. Starting your natural hair journey and falling in love with your hair allows you to love yourself more deeply and authentically. We hope that sharing these stories will leave a long-lasting impression on generations because we are all beautiful, unique, and strong — just like our hair.