For the African diaspora, there are many things to celebrate; our hairstyles serve as a crowning glory rooted in culture. Around the world, Black hair is an expression of history and art. Colombia’s annual “Tejiendo Esperanzas” (Weaving Hopes) celebration takes the reverence for this aspect of the Black experience to another level.Braiding has origins that stem well before the creation of the contest, both in Colombia and in its ties to Africa. Prior to the abolishment of slavery, braids were often used as cultural messages signaling one’s intent to escape and were even used to keep gold and seeds to help them survive on the journey.
Source: Afro-Colombians Celebrate Black Hair Excellence In Annual Braiding Contest – Travel Noire
