In “Africans Consuming Hair, Africans Consumed by Hair” (2014), Francis Nyamnjoh and Divine Fuh argue that hair is a powerful symbol of identity for many – especially women of African descent whose complex relationships with hair challenge stereotypes and dichotomies inherited from the colonial past.

Question

In “Africans Consuming Hair, Africans Consumed by Hair” (2014), Francis Nyamnjoh and Divine Fuh argue that hair is a powerful symbol of identity for many – especially women of African descent whose complex relationships with hair challenge stereotypes and dichotomies inherited from the colonial past.

What stereotypes are associated with the hair of people of African descent and where do these stereotypes originate? (2)
3 examples from the articles

Answer 1

1. One stereotype associated with the hair of people of African descent is that natural, kinky hair is considered unprofessional, unkempt, or inappropriate for certain social settings. This stereotype originates from colonial ideals of beauty that favored European features and straight hair.

2. Another stereotype is that people of African descent must conform to Eurocentric standards of beauty by straightening or altering their natural hair texture. This pressure to conform often leads to damaging hair treatments and a rejection of one's natural hair texture.

3. A third stereotype is that natural, Afro-textured hair is seen as a sign of rebellion or resistance against dominant beauty standards. This stereotype can lead to discriminatory practices in schools, workplaces, and society at large against individuals who choose to wear their natural hair.