Stylist offers tips for black hair care at San Jose Event

Note from the publisher: This article was written for Mosaic, an independent journalism training program for students who report and photograph under the instructions of professional journalists.

The Black History Month started in the San Jose Public Library with a program about what some could consider as an unusual topic – hair.

According to the website of the Museum of African American history and culture, black hairstyles are historical and cultural importance as a form of communication between African Americans. Hairs in the African and African American communities have communicated their tribe, status, religion, their geographical origin and their ethnic pride.

The program at the beginning of this month in Dr. Roberto Cruz Alum Rock Branch Library attracted a small but enthusiastic audience. Shawni Wrights, an African American hairdresser, used five mannequins to illustrate different textures of black hair.

“This program is open to all hair textures and all races, simply because blacks are not monolithic and our hair is not,” said Tiffany Bradford-Oldman, head of the black affinity group for the San Jose Public Library and the organizer of the event.

At the event, each participant had the opportunity to practice one of the mannequins that corresponded to his own hair structure. Wrights went through the room to help the participants improve their technology.

Nira Singh, a newcomer to the Prospect High School, said she has experience with a friend's hair.

“I wanted to know how to do cornrows … and repair my technology,” she said.

Wrights Riet Singh to start the network by using less hair to make the braid look closer. Singh said it was fun to learn black braided techniques.

Historically, African Americans were exposed to discrimination due to their natural hair. It has led to obstacles in employment and education.

African Americans, especially women, once used chemicals to smooth and change the texture of their hair in order to obtain social acceptance and even employment. According to the museum, people also used wigs and rifle extensions, all practices that can damage the hair.