Akili Mosi Hayden

Community Psychology: Healing Through a Black Lens

Academic Advisors: Luisa Bieri, Dr. Jennifer Grubbs, Dr. Kevin McGruder
Co-op Advisor: Luisa Bieri

Co-ops: Creative Time, Global Real Estate Partners, Self-Designed Co-op in Oaxaca, Mexico


Languages: Spanish

City:  Chicago

Email: Ahayden@antiochcollege.edu

 

"Black Hair Power”: The Inter-Generational Psychology of Black Women's Hair

Since the Natural Hair Movement started in the 90's, Black women have redefined what beauty is through a "counter-hegemonic strategy" based on refusing to follow the standards of beauty set by White people. With hundreds of years of being told that African features are not attractive, hair texture has the power to define how Black women view themselves and how they treat themselves. Black women's sense of self-esteem is closely linked to their perception of their hair. This project analyzes how Black women's sense of self-esteem and confidence have changed or remained the same over the course of history. By conducting short, in-depth interviews, we discover what hairstyle makes them feel beautiful and what hairstyle makes them feel empowered. As part of this project, we have created an interactive art installation that represents an “old school” hair salon as a place where many Black women have worked to empower themselves through dialogue, community, and beauty. It is with gratitude that we thank the Black women who have shared their personal stories with us, as well as the many pioneers before us who have fought to create safe spaces for Black women to embrace their beauty fearlessly.