My Greatest Act of Rebellion

Photo Credit: Wherbson Rodrigues

The senseless killing of George Floyd has sparked protests across the United States, parts of the United Kingdom, and Canada. Those present at rallies and marches have been calling for the end of racism, defunding the police and justice for black lives which were prematurely ended. These calls are very timely and these protests have been a long time coming.

 

These recent events made me realize how many systems around the world have been built to keep Blacks suppressed; whether subtle or out-rightly. The system has not been kind to us; it never was. We were taught to hate the color of our skin. We were taught that the lighter your complexion the more beautiful you were and the more favor you would find with "kings". We were taught that the straighter your hair was as a black woman, the greater your chances of finding a good husband and climbing the social ladder. We were taught to hate our gods and not to mention our ancestors. We were made to forget the homeland and conform as much as possible to places that never welcomed us.

 

Like Maya Angelou, I too believe that I was not only meant to survive but to thrive "and to do so with some passion, compassion, and style." Thriving has a lot to do with walking in your destiny and very little to do with materialistic accumulation. I don't think I can ever say this enough, it is imperative that you find yourself and you live your truth out loud.

 

Looking back, I recall trying to fit into that system. I had my hair straightened and turned in my Chuck Taylors for heels. It was hilarious. The more I tried to fit in is the more I felt like I did not belong. I became very uncomfortable with the ideologies I had adopted. I would have no more of it. 

 

 

Since then my story has been drenched in several acts of rebellion. Whether subtle or bold, protests against a system will never be welcomed by that system. Perhaps this is why I have always felt like a misfit in a world where people are afraid to feel like themselves. I now dress however I feel comfortable. I read books which not only inspire me to walk in freedom but also empower me.

But my greatest act of rebellion was going back to my roots. By that, I mean going natural with my crown and only using natural products. When my locs started to set in and others finally realized what I had done, I could tell how uncomfortable it made them. I know we have been taught that hairstyles like locs are unprofessional, rebellious, and defiant. In one sense they were right, my hair represents how rebellious I am choosing to be against a system that has never had my best interest at heart. On the other hand, my hair represents my ancestors, my roots, my persistence to grow and thrive even in the face of adversity. Locs can be very professional and neatly kept if one so desires. Negative connotations have been associated with everything black since before we could walk. This is why we must defy such notions. Black is beautiful. Black is glorious. This is why embracing my roots has been my greatest rebellious act yet.

 

 

I am still finding myself but I am learning to be intentional with my presence and take up space. We must not be afraid to occupy space and go to places many would not have imagined we would be. You must learn to love your skin, your heritage, and embrace all that you are.

 

I would love to hear about your acts of rebellion. Feel free to leave a comment below.