Rooted: Black Hair Care Drive
Centering Black Liberation and Joy through hair care
When it comes to survivors accessing care and cultural affirmation Black survivors and Black communities impacted by gender-based violence often encounter unique obstacles that are rooted in systemic racism. These challenges can show up as disparities in resources, cultural insensitivity aka racism, and a lack of understanding of the specific needs of Black survivors. One issue that is unique to Black survivors is Black Hair Care.
To address these challenges, OCTEVAW’s Black Hair Care Drive aims to collect and distribute a range of essential products tailored to Black hair care needs. These products, including shampoos, conditioners, hair oils, and styling tools, are crucial for maintaining hair health and cultural identity. By providing these items through local shelters, crisis centers, and support organizations, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap in access to necessary resources for Black survivors.
What does Black Hair Care Have to do with Supporting Survivors of Gender-Based Violence?
Addressing the cultural, emotional, and psychological dimensions of Black hair within the context of gender-based violence can be a powerful and supportive care practice for survivors. Hair, a symbol of identity and self-expression, often becomes intertwined with traumatic experiences. This initiative seeks to acknowledge and celebrate that Black Hair can contribute to survivors' healing by affirming their autonomy and reclaiming control over their narratives.
For survivors of gender-based violence, the journey towards recovery can be fraught with challenges, including a struggle to redefine one's sense of self. Recognizing the significance of Black hair care in this process acknowledges the intersectionality of their experiences, offering a space where cultural identity is not only acknowledged but celebrated.
Black hair care also holds significance for spiritual well-being and religious practice. Having access to products for Black hair is not just about self-care - it can support overcoming other systemic economic issues, such as access to employment.
Distributing these products through established support networks ensures that survivors not only have access to the physical items they need but also helps maintain a positive sense of self, dignity and connection to cultural identity. This initiative seeks to center the importance of acknowledging and addressing the unique challenges faced by Black survivors.
Is Black Hair Care that expensive?
Yes. It is. And given that housing, food security and transportation are all key priorities for survivors, items of care sometimes take the back burner. This hair care drive is a tangible way to support survivors of gender-based violence.
Learn more here:
Tangled Roots: Decoding the history of Black Hair | CBC Radio
How long will the drive last?
The drive will run from December 5th until the end of Black History Month. If you are interested in dropping off items please email octevawed@gmail.com.
What Items Can I Purchase?
Shampoo
Conditioner
Leave-In Conditioner
Bonnets
Detangler Brushes
Afro Picks
Clore Gift Cards ($25)
Black hair is often a site of non-consensual touch
Image : @barrydeutsch
Interested in learning more about how anti-black racism impacts survivors of gender-based violence?
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